<p>So I got an email from PEERS saying that I'll be having a Chemistry Diagnostic Test on the 23rd. Does anyone know what the test covers? The email states</p>
<p>"You will be tested on formulas, balancing equations, properties of atoms,
and the periodic table of elements. There is no math on the exam and you
will not need a calculator. You will also be given a copy of the periodic
table."</p>
<p>But honestly, it sounds so generic. I know how to balance equations, but what else does it mean by formulas, properties of atoms, and the periodic table of elements? I haven't taken a chemistry class since my sophomore year in high school and I only attempted to self teach myself AP Chem my senior year.</p>
<p>Has anyone taken this test before? I would just think the test would be on basics (since there is no calculator required) such as really really general aspects like how to actually read the freakin periodic table, knowing the basic understandings of compounds, isotopes, ions, determining amount of protons, neutrons, electrons, you know really simple things, along with the balancing equations of course. I would've thought they might've added some conversation problems but I guess not since calculator isn't required. It probably might even cover orbitals, electron configuration (spin, magnetic quantum numbers, etc), lewis dot structures, and that good stuff.</p>
<p>I don't think the test would cover things like redox reactions, acid base neutralizations, shapes of the compound/molecule (tetrahedral, trigonal planar,etc)</p>
<p>i haven't taken the exam but i'd think by that formulas probably means like they'd give you a couple simple compounds and ask what products they'd form. and the "really really general aspects like how to actually read the freakin periodic table, knowing the basic understandings of compounds, isotopes, ions, determining amount of protons, neutrons, electrons" and "orbitals, electron configuration (spin, magnetic quantum numbers, etc), lewis dot structures" is probably what is meant for atoms... For the periodic table, you'd probably have to know how to read the table, trends (like electronegnetivity, etc...) and classes (like alkali metals, etc...). I would think that it might also be a good idea to look over the geometry of compounds too... since that stuff is pretty basic...</p>
<p>Doesn't cover your last sentence of the first post.
Don't worry about it -
In the worse case scenario, you'll have to take a remedial chemistry course which is probably better for you in the long-run if you went to a poor HS and you're unprepared...
In any case, it's easy and basic.</p>
<p>i have to take it too! when i first read it, i started freaking out! i didn't expect a diagnostic test at all! i'm scared cuz of what they told us if we did poorly on the test. now i have to go review, a lot!</p>
<p>^ don't be scared. like qipao said the worse that can happen is that you have to take a remedial chem course. i was in PEERS years ago and they really are there to help you.. just don't depend too much on what their counselors tell you if your PEERS counselor isn't from your major department...</p>
<p>I didn't even know there was a remedial chem course. I thought Chem14A was the lowest? Well I'm relieved to know that PEERS is "really there to help me." I'm really worried about how I'm going to do in college and it's nice to have a support program for aid in math and sciences.</p>
<p>Are you sure about the remedial chemistry course? I've honestly never heard of it and the email from PEERS states that if we do not do well on the test, the PEERS staff will "strongly recommend" me postpone taking Chemistry for a quarter.</p>