Frequently Asked Questions

Why aren't scores published?

What's a four-year college degree worth?

How can I get help from Mr. Afifi?

What is IM technology?

Is there anyone else who can help me?

Why should I take AP Chemistry?

Am I qualified to take AP Chemistry?

Can I take AP Chemistry during the 2009-2010 school year?

Will Mr. Afifi be the AP Chemistry teacher?

What were the average semester grades for Fall 2007 in Mr. Afifi's classes?

What are the classroom rules and policies?

Why is my quarter grade different than my semester grade?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why aren't scores published?

I do not publish scores because I want you to contact me when you are interested in your scores. I think there is no substitute for human contact and I usually respond within 24 hours. I'm sorry for the inconvenience.

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How can I get help from Mr. Afifi?

I attempt to meet the needs of my students by offering extensive opportunities for student-teacher contact outside of class. I am available at lunch nearly every day, also after school on Tuesdays and Fridays until 4:00, and in the evenings through instant message (IM) or email.

Email address is mafifi@pgusd.org
Yahoo! Messenger screen name is marc_afifi
AIM screen name is marcafifi
You can reach me through facebook or phonebook.

I have helped several students with their homework using IM technology. I am able to ask diagnostic questions, provide instant feedback, and I am also able to scan and send files containing diagrams and explanations for particularly confusing assignments if necessary. Typically I am available online in the evenings until 9:00. You must give me your screen name in advance so I know with whom I am talking. I do not accept IM requests from people who are not on my buddy list because some people have decided to make a joke of my efforts. So, if you think you might want to make use of my online help offer, please give me your screen name in person and I will add you to my buddy list. If you are already on my buddy list you do not have to do this. You are on my buddy list if you have contacted me prior to 2/1/08 by IM. Remember, IM help is meant to be just that. Please do not waste both of our time by being silly. But please DO take advantage of this opportunity to clarify problems you are having with concepts we are learning.

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What is IM technology?

IM stands for instant message. Many services are available for free. I use AOL's version called AIM and you can get a free screen name from AOL by visiting their website. I also use Yahoo! Messenger which is free from their website too but requires a downloaded application. Please let me know if you need help creating a screen name.

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Is there anyone else who can help me?

Yes. I can get you in contact with a private tutor or you could use the Yellow Pages in the phone book to find one yourself. Let me know if I can help. Of course, my help is free!

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Why should I take AP Chemistry?

Many college majors require a first year course in chemistry. AP Chemistry will prepare you for college chemistry much better than regular chemistry does, and you may even get a full year's college credit in chemistry if you pass the AP exam. Such credit will save you tuition and the cost of textbooks. It's quite a hefty reward for your diligence.

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Am I qualified to take AP Chemistry?

You qualify for AP chemistry if you have earned at least a B in regular chemistry, or obtain the instructor's consent. Many students qualify this year and 11 students from last year were unable to take AP chem this year due to enrollment limitations. They are likely to sign up for AP chem for next year and Mr. Dodd has intimated that it's a go for 2008-2009.

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Can I take AP Chemistry during the 2009-2010 school year?

Since AP chemistry is typically NOT taught every year, you should sign up for it for next year if you have any interest in taking the class at PGHS. There is no guarantee that there will be an AP Chemistry class during the 2009-2010 school year. If you don't take it next year you risk not being able to take it the following year because next year's students will complain all year about how hard it is and then sign-ups for 2009-2010 may be too low for the class to be funded in 2009-2010. It is unfortunate that availability of the course depends on popularity rather than results, but that's the paradigm at PGHS. It will be the hardest class you have ever taken but your chances of being successful on the AP exam are good if you do everything you are asked to do. Serious students only, please. Athletes and cheerleaders should really consider whether they'll have the time required for success. Five hours per week of focused study time is usually what's needed. Are you up to it? No whiners!

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Will Mr. Afifi be the AP Chemistry teacher?

That depends on many factors. It is possible that I will not be the teacher. Who teaches the class should not factor into your decision-making process. The class will be incredibly hard no matter who teaches it. I did post a letter in PowerSchool that I received from one of last year's graduates who took AP Chemistry at PGHS. Please take the time to read it carefully. It may help you in your decision.

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What were the average semester grades for Fall 2007 in Mr. Afifi's classes?

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What are the classroom rules and policies?

Classroom rules and policies were handed out at the beginning of the school year in my Message to Students and Parents. If you lost your copy, please email me and I'll send you another copy.

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Why is my quarter grade different than my semester grade?

I do NOT average quarter grades to determine the semester grade. The quarter grade is simply a progress report as far as I'm concerned. Please look only at the semester grade when determining your standing.

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