3.8

Christopher Hamaker

Chemistry - Illinois State University

3.8
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
73%
Would Retake
134
Reviews
3.8
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
3.9
Helpful
3.7
Clarity

73%

Would Retake

134

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

61

4

31

3

21

2

9

1

12

What Students Say

He cares about everyones growth in the subject of chemistry

CHE140 - 5.0 rating

The labs are easy points with very minimal outside effort

CHE140 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

58%

Textbook Required

45%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 62 grades
Most common grades:
A (18)
C (9)
B (9)
Grade Distribution
A(23)B(12)C(13)D(7)F(1)A-/B+(6)
Based on 69 reported grades
A: 18
C: 9
B: 9
Not sure yet: 7
Common Tags
Lecture heavy (25)
Test heavy (18)
Skip class? You won't pass. (14)
Lots of homework (14)
Accessible outside class (11)
Caring (10)
Respected (10)
Clear grading criteria (10)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.24 avg change
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
May
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHM110

5.0

(1)

CHEMISTRY

5.0

(1)

CHE000

5.0

(1)

CHE112

5.0

(1)

CHE12

5.0

(1)
+11 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CHM140

5.0

CHEM140

4.0

CHE12

4.0

CHE140

3.9

CHE141

3.8

Reviews (134)
4.0
4.0
CHE110
Apr 9, 2004

Pretty good teacher.

5.0
3.0
CHE110
Apr 15, 2005

He was a pretty good teacher. Liked to teacher this class. Friendly and easy to talk to. Online quizzes aren't hard. Tests are straight forward. Always had help sessions if you needed them. Got excited sometimes when doing experiments in class.

5.0
3.0
CHM110
Apr 20, 2004

I enjoyed his class, but we need to be able to have a page worth of notes for tests just like some of the other chem teachers! Just a hint!

3.0
5.0
CHE110
May 8, 2005

Enthusiastic about teaching, class can be boring when he spends the whole lecture doing ex. problems. Tests are difficult so if you don't know anything about chemistry you'll struggle cus this isn't exactly an introductory course.

5.0
3.0
CHEMISTRY
Aug 30, 2005

No Comments

4.0
2.0
CHEM110
Oct 19, 2005

Great teacher!!

5.0
3.0
CHE110
Nov 1, 2005

He is a really good teacher. He loves chemistry and wants everyone to love it too! He is so incredibly helpful with office hours and help sessions-he truely wants everyone to succeed. His class is not difficult if you do the homework and put forth a little effort. The tests are pretty straight forwar. great sense of humor- i loved this class!

5.0
1.0
CHE110
Dec 5, 2005

This class is very easy as long as you take notes and come to class the majority of the time. Most of the test questions are pretty easy. The class can be pretty boring at times, but the professor is very nice. He cares about what he is teaching and wants others to care too.

5.0
2.0
CHEM110
Apr 11, 2006

VERY helpful. Has help sessions every Tues and will answer any questions during class. Tests aren't hard if you study. Quizzes every week online but they're sooooo easy.

5.0
2.0
CHEM110
May 6, 2007

Great teacher! Dr. Hamaker was great at making sure we understood what he was talking about and at explaining things. He's always there to help you, whether it be Tuesdays at his help sessions or if you need to make an appointment. Take time to go to his office hours!!!! if he knows who you are and knows that you care,you will do better!

3.0
3.0
CHEM351
Mar 25, 2007

good class but could have been more clear on lab procedures Lab reports were graded very hard and office hours did not help much.

5.0
2.0
CHEM110
May 13, 2007

go to class and you will do fine, the test aren't hard and the final is easy

2.0
5.0
CHEM110
May 10, 2008

one of the worst teachers ive ever had. if you're not a science major do not take this class, he believes you already know much more than you do. i hear the geology teacher is a lot easier if you're just trying to get your science credits out of the way.

4.0
3.0
CHE110
May 20, 2008

Hard class if you do not have a chemistry background, but he was very helpful in understanding at Tuesday study sessions, and you could also see him during office hours if you don't understand everything. Lots of work, but pays off in the end.

5.0
2.0
CHE000
Dec 19, 2008

Good professor. Great person. I could definitely see myself friends with this guy in the future. You'll need to work your butt off in his class, but you'll get sooo much out of it.

5.0
5.0
CHEM110
May 3, 2009

Good teacher and fair although his class is hard. He gives you practice problems at the beginning of each chapter. they are def worth your time.

3.0
5.0
CHE110
Apr 15, 2009

He is a very hard teacher. If you are already not comfortable with taking chemistry he is not the teacher for you. The tests are very Hard!!!!

4.0
5.0
CHEM110
May 8, 2009

This class is no joke. It's going to be hard if you don't take the time to study. Hamaker is a great teacher though. He is always willing to help you and he has reviews once a week where you can ask anything you want.

5.0
2.0
CHEM110
May 13, 2009

Great teacher!! Very helpful. Lots of points in this class. Drops one test and two online quizes. Do the work in the book (optional) and you'll do great on the tests!!!

4.0
5.0
CHE110
Apr 22, 2010

He is a good teacher for the most part. He teaches up to the exam, so make sure you do the suggested problems in the book. I pretty much learned I had to teach myself how to do the majority of the stuff he teaches. Go to tutoring and stay for review sessions he holds once a week.

5.0
3.0
CHE110
Feb 17, 2010

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Take him, trust me, you won't be disappointed.

5.0
1.0
CHEM110
May 3, 2010

He was a great teacher. Test are easy. Tutoring helps.

4.0
3.0
CHEM110
May 4, 2010

Good teacher. Explains everything clearly and gives plenty of examples to help you better understand it. Theres a decent amount of points.Theres an exam every other Thurs and a webquiz the weeks theres not an exam. May sound bad but not really. Kinda nice because then there isnt as much material on the exams.

5.0
1.0
CHEM110
Mar 5, 2011

If you have none or very little chem background prior to this class, then it could be quite difficult. However if you've taken a lot of chem, then the class will be a breeze. Do not miss lecture. He teaches for the entire full 50 minutes every lecture. he uses excellent examples. I recommend buying the booklet of his past exams, it's very helpful.

5.0
2.0
CHEM110
Mar 15, 2011

Mr. Hamaker is a WONDERFUL teacher.. he teaches everything in a clear and concise way and if you don't understand something, he is more than happy yo clarify. Although this class is tough, the exams are layed out in a good way. you have 7 exams that only cover 2 chapters each. It sounds awful having 7 exams but it is better than 4 exams!

5.0
2.0
CHE112
Mar 20, 2011

He is a great professor!

5.0
3.0
CHEM110
Mar 20, 2011

Dr. Hamaker makes Chemistry very interesting and easy to understand. The "molecule of the week"'s are always fun and are a good way of understanding how chemistry relates with everyday products. Buy his booklet of his past exams, saved my life!

5.0
4.0
CHEM110
Apr 12, 2011

Dr. Hamaker is one of the best teachers I have ever had in my life. He genuinely wants to help you learn the material. I went into this class thinking I would fail and I've ended up with an A, because Hamaker is so helpful. You have to work hard, but that's expected for a chem class. I highly recommend going to his review sessions.

5.0
4.0
CHE110
Apr 6, 2011

Wonderful teacher! Easy to understand, and oddly attractive! Very helpful in and outside of class.

3.0
4.0
CHE140
Oct 6, 2011

4 tests, 1 final, 1 online/lab quiz a week. Drops lowest (non final) test score. Heavy on calculations. Tests are 10 multiple choice, 10 short answer, then 5 long calculations worth 6 points each (out 100 points). Final 3 or so questions on each test are difficult/confusing!You'll drop 1 or (almost) 2 grades on tests, because of those 3 questions.

4.0
4.0
CHE140
Oct 7, 2011

For a gen ed course, Hamaker makes this course WAY more difficult than what it should be. If this class was based on his exams, probably 80% of the class wouldn't pass. He expects everyone in his class to automatically be a Chem or Pre-med major, when a lot of people aren't.

4.0
4.0
CHE140
Nov 8, 2011

What? Best professor at ISU? Doesn't do any chemical experiments during class. It's mostly him yelling in a boring monotone voice, reading from his notes, writing on the white board, the whole time. He doesn't stop to let anything sink in, either. So boring. Not 4 year college material. I expected MUCH more, especially from a 4 year college.

5.0
5.0
CHE140
Nov 2, 2011

This class is in no way easy. You will have to work hard, but Hamaker is probably the best professor I have had while at ISU. This class is not supposed to be easy. I went to tutoring at the visor center the first day. Dr. Hamaker explains everything so clearly!

2.0
5.0
CHE140
Nov 15, 2011

I've never seen a professor make chemistry so boring. The most interesting thing in class is watching the hair on his receding hairline bounce up and down. The Test are difficult and his study guides aren't all that great. He rushes through things when teaching so it difficult to comprehend.

5.0
3.0
CHEM140
Nov 16, 2011

140 is suppose to cover the same material as the first semester of AP Chemistry, which is hard. Those who expect class this to be easy are in for a hurting, as chemistry is a very difficult field of study. Dr. Hamaker does a very good job explaining it. Go to class, take notes, read the book, and participate in the labs and you'll do fine.

3.0
3.0
CHEM140
Dec 3, 2011

Here's something you need to remember, here's another thing you need to remember, here's another thing... Doesn't really explain the WHY. Keeps throwing things out, never explains the WHY and you need to take his word as god's word. This is why I hate Chem - it's all just memorization. Also, his tests suck. Last questions = 1 letter grade bullsh**

4.0
3.0
CHE140
Dec 14, 2011

GO TO CLASS, his tests are difficult and will not let you use a graphing calculator, so be prepared to buy a nongraphing calculator.

4.0
4.0
CHEM140
Dec 15, 2011

Ive taken chem 140 twice and mr. hamaker tought the class way better than my previous instructor. I also had him for chem 110 and hes definitely one of my favorite teachers!

4.0
4.0
CHE140
Oct 10, 2012

I had Hamaker for Chemistry 140. If you have never taken Chemistry I would not recommend jumping into this class. He is a brilliant man but he teaches above students thinking capacity and flies through EVERYTHING. It is a hard class. You will have to get tutors and seek extra help but he is a pretty cool guy.

4.0
5.0
CHEM140
Oct 26, 2012

GREAT teacher! Must go to class - he Does throw a lot at you all at once, but you REALLY have to have the time to devote to studying for this class. He has help sessions and he is awesome in explaining things- Very SMART guy!

2.0
4.0
CHE140
Dec 5, 2012

Guy should be kicked out from teacher. He is the worst teacher you will ever have. He explains nothing at all. There are questions on every test that we have never even gone over or seen. You might as well not even go to class. Every single person fails every test. Do not take him

5.0
4.0
CHE12
Dec 14, 2012

Clear teacher, will always answer questions if asked and always attempts to make time for students. Expects a lot, but is completely passable if you are willing to put time and effort into the class.

5.0
2.0
CHE145
Jan 9, 2013

Fun to listen to and clear in message. If you have any trouble, email him and he will provide a useful response the same day! He tries to make sure the whole class understands before moving on, and really seems to love his job while taking it seriously. Definitely recommend taking his class!

5.0
3.0
CHE140
Jan 13, 2013

I am a chemistry major. I had taken two years of chem in highschool. This class is not a class for someone who hasn't had a chem class before. It's not difficult if you study and there are we quizzes and lab grades that act as a grade booster. He is helpful but sometimes quick to put the info out there. Reallllly loves chemistry though. Good guy

5.0
3.0
CHE140
Jan 16, 2013

Very good prof for a very hard class. Don't expect to skate through this course as the material is very challenging. Hamaker goes through his lectures very quickly. Definatly go to class and go to his review sessions or tutor sessions. An A is unlikely but a B is possible with alot of hard work.

3.0
4.0
CHE140
Mar 1, 2013

Yes the material is difficult. But I have had other Chem. teachers who do a better job of teaching difficult subject matter. He writes all notes on board, no slides of any kind. I felt I spent the entire class writing and burning my arm up. Covers many topics per lecture. You could learn on your own from book just as well or better.

5.0
1.0
CHE140
Apr 15, 2013

Great professor, anyone who says he wasn't is just upset because they probably didn't go to class and probably didn't get a good grade because of it. If you go to class and do the suggested book problems, you'll definitely get an A.

2.0
5.0
CHEM140
Apr 22, 2013

Too bad he didn't give better examples or explain things better.

5.0
4.0
CHE140
May 7, 2013

Dr. Hamaker really knows his stuff. Tough course, but if you go to class and do the homework you should be good. Tests are tough but reasonable, and lectures are very quick and un-thorough.

4.0
5.0
CHE140
May 16, 2013

He is a really nice professor even though you do not have to go to class you get clicker points that end up being beneficial to your grade. Also try to do good in his class because he does curve his overall grade sometimes I was at a D without the curve but with the curve I got a C Hard class your going to have to study, do the practice problems

4.0
5.0
CHE140
May 24, 2013

1. go to class even though this class is not mandatory he gives out clicker points that do count for a grade. 2. read the book and do the practice problems it will help. 3. Take notes and pay attention in class. 4. study hard and you can get a hard earned A or mostly likely a B

5.0
2.0
110
Grade: A
Oct 13, 2014

He tries to keep class entertaining, and usually does. He's a funny guy. He has a lot of tests, but drops the lowest one which is nice. It is a generally easy class.

5.0
2.0
CHEM110
Dec 5, 2014

If you are ever uncertain on any material, email him right away! I spent weeks looking for a way to figure out some content and he cleared it up in a two-sentence email! Not only that, he responded only a couple of hours after I sent it. It's clear he loves what he does and he really knows his stuff. Great for exploring Chem or a gen ed.

4.0
4.0
110
Dec 13, 2014

At the start of the year seemed really cool and helpful in lecture and then seemed annoyed whenever I would come to his office. Acted like I was bothering him even when I would email him ahead of time to make sure it was okay to come. The tests are tough and the questions are worth so many points. TOUGH CLASS

2.0
2.0
CHE350
Grade: A+
May 5, 2015

Spends too much time throwing numbers on the board and having you memorize the periodic table. Claims to focus on the "big picture" but waters it down with a large amount of worthless and often confusing information. He's liked by many students simply because he's an easy grader, but when it comes to explanations he is the worst.

3.0
5.0
CHE140
Oct 28, 2015

Very knowledgeable teacher but often wont go through enough problems to understand the material. A lot of people do not do well on his exam so you must study very hard.

1.0
5.0
CHM140
Nov 19, 2015

Very unclear about what and how important things will be for the test. Boring professor who just throws stuff up on the board without really explaining.

2.0
5.0
CHM140
Nov 10, 2015

Mr. Hamaker may come off as a good teacher, don't be fooled. He doesn't explain things well in class and when you go in for extra help he is often rushed and unwilling to give extensive help for a student to understand. If you get him, try to get a different professor. 10/10 DO NOT RECOMMEND!!

3.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 2, 2015

Took him for CHE140 as a freshman. He is a good guy and is a super genius at Chemistry, however he has trouble conveying his knowledge to students, and his lectures are super fast paced and difficult to follow. The tests are EXTREMELY difficult. Go to class and lab, study hard, and you can hopefully walk away with a hard earned B.

4.0
3.0
CHE140
Grade: B-
Dec 7, 2015

Hamaker is a great professor. He teaches the material clearly and efficiently. I wouldn't want any other professor for lecture.

3.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 11, 2015

Hamaker knows what he's talking about, but if Chemistry isn't your strong suit, then he isn't the one for you. His lessons are often fast paced, hard to follow at times, and test are incredibly hard, so study up! On the plus side he has clicker questions everyday, which are easy points.

4.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: D
Dec 9, 2015

He writes things down on the board and then starts talking right away before students have the chance to write it themselves. He will go into good detail and he answers questions well, so make sure you ask. Lots of difficult questions and trick questions on exams.

4.0
4.0
CHE140
Dec 15, 2015

He is really nice when you come up to him for questions and he accepts feedback from his students. Make sure to come to class every day because the clicker points saved me. He also gives extra points here and there when he sees students struggling.

3.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: A-
Dec 16, 2015

Go to class, it's an easy way to get clicker points, and if you skip you will be completely lost . Use the textbook, read the sections that he doesn't go into detail about in lecture, and do the practice problems. The tests are extremely hard, and there aren't a lot of them so STUDY. I managed to get an A in this class, but it was hard.

2.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: C
Dec 16, 2015

Class would have been relatively easy if the tests made more sense. It seemed like nothing we ever learned was on them, which made the class really hard to pass. Would not recommend this teacher to someone who is just starting in Chemistry.

3.0
4.0
CHEM140
Jan 4, 2016

He is a tough grader. But if you are having trouble in his class... GO IN AND GET HELP!!!! He is a better one on one teacher than he is in a lecture teacher.

3.0
4.0
CHE140
Jan 10, 2016

No homework and an easy weekly online quiz. You would expect that because the way he presents the material in class that the tests would be easier, but they are actually pretty hard( I am a chem major as well) There is little opportunity to practice the problems he gives you as the end of chapter problems in the book are not similar to the test

5.0
2.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Jan 14, 2016

Dr. Hamaker makes chemistry seem interesting! You do need the book in order to complete some of the labs, but unless you need extra help (like reading or practice problems) you most likely won't use it much. If I were to take the course again I wouldn't buy the book and would use the reference textbook in the library. Overall though, a fun class!

3.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: B-
Feb 25, 2016

Sometimes you will see a test question that appears to be covering something you have never seen. Pretty lighthearted lectures though. Don't stress the lab.

3.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: C-
Apr 11, 2016

Dr. Hamaker is a tough grader with hard tests, though he does give partial credit. He knows what he is doing, but he's very fast paced and can be confusing. He also expects you to know a lot about chemistry, which isn't good if you don't have a lot of prior experience with it. Definitely requires outside work if you don't like chem.

3.0
3.0
CHE250
Grade: D
Nov 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Hamaker is a nice guy but he is not a very good teacher. At least for Inorganic Chemistry. I struggled to grasp the concepts and 3D modeling. Get a model kit to use for practice!

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
5.0
4.0
CHE140
Nov 30, 2017
Would take again

Had professor Hamaker as my lab instructor for Chem 140 and I wish he was the lecture instructer, thats how good he was. He cares about everyones growth in the subject of chemistry

Inspirational
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Caring
2.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: B
Mar 1, 2018
Wouldn't take again

The labs are easy points with very minimal outside effort. The only homework is a weekly online quiz which you get 3 attempts at. The tests are very hard, exam 1 class average was below a 60%. The practice problems from the book are not good practice for the exams at all. This class would be a easier with better resources to prepare for the exams.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 16, 2018
Would take again

Hamaker is a great guy. A lot of people say 140 sucks, which is half true i guess. It sucks because it's very challenging, but if you go to class, study hard, and most importantly go see Hamaker for help when you can, you'll surely pass. Hamaker is always happy to help and has been so chipper and friendly to me every time I've asked him for help.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: C
Nov 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He is a very caring and nice professor. His lectures can be confusing and he does move at a fast pace. He expects you to have prior knowledge of chem which can suck bc the things he writes on the board are often brief notes. Wish he gave us time to take down all the notes before talking about them. Would recommend signing up for tutoring too.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
4.0
CHE140
Dec 12, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker is actually a great instructor! It's a little strange because instead of using powerpoints, he will write the notes on the whiteboard. For each chapter, Dr. Hamaker will give recommended questions (not for a grade) and doing those help a lot on the weekly online quizzes and the exams. I struggled bc I don't like chem, but he's great.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: C+
Dec 14, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker was great to have in class, but Chem 140 is just really hard! Grading is hard and you definitely can't depend on partial credit in that class because every TA grades differently. Go to lab and put the time in and you should pass.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: B
Dec 13, 2018
Would take again

You don't need the book unless you are planning to do extra problems out of it. The way he gives notes in his lectures is extremely helpful: he writes everything out on the whiteboard. He is super caring about his students and is available outside of class. Great professor

Tough Grader
Participation matters
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
1.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: F
Jan 11, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Lecture move way too fast. labs were my only good grade in the class. the TAs grade different so for the 4 exams we had on some of them I got partial credit and others I didn't get any credit. I had to teach myself but don't but the book right away, I used khan academy mostly. Go to lecture there are 2-6 clicker questions every day.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: D
Feb 6, 2019
Wouldn't take again

If you do not have atleast AP level Chem knowledge, Hamaker makes this class difficult to pass. Our first test average score was an F. Test material is nothing like the lectures. He handwrites everything on the board. He is also shout-y while lecturing. He is a chem genius, but rushed when explaining. Take 140 with Dr. Webb, hes more concise.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
5.0
2.0
CHE140
Grade: A+
Feb 21, 2019
Would take again

Hamaker is the best lecturer we have. His notes on the board are everything since they show you exactly how he wants you to do problems. If you're not a Chem Major join tutoring, its extremely helpful. If you are a Chem Major, sign up anyways, the more ways you hear something the better you understand it. Just go to class and take notes, not hard

Gives good feedback
Respected
Accessible outside class
3.0
5.0
CHE141
Grade: D
Apr 26, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I have mixed emotions about this professor. He is funny but tests are really hard and it is not on the material that we have discussed in lecture. My test averages is in the 50% range. You need to pay attention in class because there aren't powerpoint because he writes on the whiteboard. The labs are long and hard.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
CHE141
Grade: A
Apr 29, 2019
Would take again

GREAT guy! Had him for CHE140 and 141 and I highly recommend. He is very straightforward with material and his expectations, so there is little room for misinterpretation. Genuinely cares about students learning and is very helpful outside of class. He does challenge students, but nothing too unreasonable. If you get the chance, take him!

Respected
Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
CHE141
Grade: A
Apr 29, 2019
Would take again

INCREDIBLE PROFESSOR, great guy always available in office hours. Highly recommend taking his course, and going to his office hours he is very approachable and wants you to succeed.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
CHE141
May 3, 2019
Would take again

He is a very good professor and writes all you need to know on the white board. If you listen to what he is saying/pay attention in class, that's what's on the test. The end of chapter questions are not required, but very helpful. Does require previous chem knowledge, but a few tutor sessions will help with that. He is always available to help.

Respected
Accessible outside class
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
CHEM140
Grade: D
May 9, 2019
Wouldn't take again

this man miss graded my exam and at the end of the semester i brought it to his attention and he said that he would take into consideration fixing the mistake he made in the first place causing my grade to drop 10% on a exam

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
CHE141
Grade: C
May 17, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Aweful, avoid this class at all cost!!! Those who say he is a good teacher must have been teacher pets or something! He sucks.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Jun 7, 2019
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker is a great professor! He cares about his students and always answers questions. Great teaching style - he uses the white boards. You NEED to go to class to do well. I also suggest doing end of chapter problems. The exam questions are based on class work and occasionally an end of chapter problem. I also suggest doing Visor tutoring.

Gives good feedback
Test heavy
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
CHE141
Grade: A
Jun 7, 2019
Would take again

I had Dr. Hamaker for 140 and 141. I really appreciated him as a professor for 141. It became clear to me how much he cared for his students & their learning. You need to go to class. Every point counts equally for grading so do clicker points, get 7s on all quizzes, try in lab, and study for exams and you will be fine. Great teaching style too!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Caring
4.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Oct 11, 2019
Would take again

Hamaker is probably the best 140 and 141 professor at ISU. The class definitely wasn't easy, but if you start studying or at least looking over the notes a week before the test you should be fine. People who say the exams look nothing like what we learned in lecture probably just weren't going or weren't putting in the work.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
CHE141
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2019
Would take again

Best Chem professor! You must go to lecture because he rarely uses slides. If you take the quizzes seriously and make sure you understand what's going on during lecture you will be fine! Also study from the 141 tests the previous semester because he uses the same questions with different numbers. Very straight forward and kind guy!

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
4.0
4.0
CHE141
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 10, 2021
Would take again

He's a really great guy. I really liked his teaching style- he teaches by writing on the whiteboard so you can't miss class. He gives an "exit quiz" usually once a week which is basically his way of taking attendance. He's super nice and very helpful one-on-one. But you gotta work for it. Do the homework and know how to do problems from your notes.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Beware of pop quizzes
Caring
4.0
4.0
CHE141
Grade: C
Dec 10, 2021
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker is a really nice guy and I enjoyed his class even though it was hard. You definitely need to go to lecture because you could be tested on anything. He gives pop quizzes (like once a week), online homework and weekly quizzes. The exams are REALLY hard but it's still possible to do well in the class even if you have low exam scores.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
CHE141
Grade: A
Jan 9, 2022
Would take again

Great professor. You need to go to class and study, but he is always willing to help. The chem101 homework website is super helpful and I recommend doing the practice problems before exams. Look over the notes before it's too late and be sure to understand from the start. Final exam questions are all questions from previous exams with different #s

Skip class? You won't pass.
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
3.0
CHE141
Feb 22, 2022
Would take again

Professor Hamaker has been one of my favorite professors at ISU so far. Although some lectures may be difficult to understand, he puts a lot of passion behind his teaching. I've always hated chemistry, but because of Hamaker's teaching style, I always anticipated lectures. I recommend not skipping any lectures, he does unexpected E.C points.

3.0
5.0
CHE141
Grade: B
Apr 28, 2022

I legit can't with chemistry in the first place and he does not make it any easier. He will only do 2 examples of something and then you will be tested on it but 10x the difficulty. The homework is zero help because it is harder than the exams so you have no idea what to learn. nearly everyone in the class was getting 60-70% on the exams.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
CHE141
Grade: A
Apr 30, 2022
Would take again

Was very lecture intensive, but the is good at lecturing and is very clear about what information you will and will not be tested on. Overall great professor for the material he taught .

Respected
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
CHE141
Grade: A-
May 3, 2022
Would take again

Prof. Hamaker was incredibly passionate about the material he was teaching and really cares about helping students. He does all the lectures on the whiteboard and doesn't post notes, however, so I wouldn't recommend skipping lecture otherwise you will be behind.

Caring
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
CHE141
Grade: B-
May 6, 2022
Would take again

He has an old school style of teaching and is good at answering questions that come up during lecture. Exams are hard and don't have a lot of multiple choice. Study off of the exams for the final as it's just slightly reworded questions from the exams. The HW and online quizzes will pad your grade.

Caring
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHE141
Grade: D
Sep 16, 2022

He did not understand why students were struggling, was not helpful in answering questions, he did not help or give credit back on confusing/ picky online assignments, and would not include material covered in class on homework/ exams.

1.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: D
Sep 16, 2022

At the beginning of the semester I had no issues with him as a teacher and how he taught the class, but not even halfway through whenever I would meet with him for questions he was rude and seemed frustrated that I wasn't understanding the material. He would show anger to the class for poor test scores and that's unsettling.

4.0
2.0
CHE141
Grade: B+
Oct 24, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker was one of the best professors I've had. Lecture material is not posted online, so show up and take good notes. His lectures are very clear and he does plenty of examples during class. He is also very willing to answer questions and really wants his students to succeed. Exams are not too bad as long as you take good notes.

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
CHE250
Grade: A
Dec 12, 2022
Would take again

I had Dr. Hamaker as my 251 lab instructor and he was a great professor for this. He always answered questions and made sure we knew what we were doing. I also met with him during his office hours and he always makes time for his students and is very approachable. He is very organized and professional.10/10 would recommend him for this lab section.

Participation matters
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
CHE140
Grade: A-
Dec 15, 2022
Would take again

Very good lectures. Explanations made sense and helped a lot on understanding the material. Aktiv chem helps prepare for exams. Final takes questions from old exams so it is VERY easy to study for.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
4.0
3.0
CHE140
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 15, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker is a good professor and person overall. He's very nice to talk to about anything really and is always helpful with questions. The exams aren't very much like the homework on Aktiv Chemistry, but he gives examples in lecture. The final also used the exact questions from the previous exams so it was easy to study for.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker is an excellent professor who really cares about his students! He is so kind in his office hours, and really wants you to understand the material. Go to office hours to get to know him better too! The class was tricky at times, but Dr. Hamaker is clear about what is on the test!

Respected
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: A+
Dec 26, 2022
Would take again

You need to go to lecture. He is super nice if you talk to him. He answers questions and then makes sure that he answered your question. Tests are hard but several point grab opportunities, so the tests don't tank your grade. He is very passionate about his work, and you can tell in lecture. Book is online and not needed.

Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
3.0
3.0
CHE141
Grade: B
Jan 11, 2023
Would take again

In lectures, students would have to correct his work which made for a lot of confusion for the class. All of his notes are handwritten and can be difficult to read, but he is not a bad professor. He gives credit on exams for work even if the final answer is wrong. His final is just questions from previous exams. He posts previous exams to look at.

4.0
3.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Mar 7, 2023
Would take again

The class material was difficult but nothing unbearable if you put the work in. His tests are pretty difficult but if you use the online learning program to study and go to class and take good notes you should be fine. Attendance is not mandatory but it helps you understand the material so much better than just copying the notes down.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Respected
5.0
3.0
CHE141
Grade: A+
May 4, 2023
Would take again

A lot of people didn't like Dr. Hamaker because the class is difficult but he's a great professor. Tests are hard, so you have to study but they're not impossible (I got an A on all). He's very personable and loves questions and was very easy to access outside class. Labs are every week for 3 hrs but they were interesting. Be ready to work hard.

Participation matters
Test heavy
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
CHE141
Grade: C+
May 21, 2023
Would take again

I struggled with this course since I had some personal issues going on. His exams are difficult and he does give out online homework/quizzes which saved my grade. I started off doing horrible on the exams and did OK at the end. Overall, I was failing the class & he took into consideration of my improvement throughout the year at the end. So caring!

Caring
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: C
Dec 13, 2023
Would take again

Can't speak for other majors, but as a comp sci major, this class was hard. Tests are the hardest part of the class, so take advantage of the labs and weekly quizzes. Attendance isn't mandatory, but go to every lecture because it will help you dramatically. Dr. Hamaker is very approachable and nice, so make sure to ask questions if you have them.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: C+
Dec 19, 2023
Would take again

He was a very good professor and you could tell he was passionate in what he does. Tests are hard but if really prepared they are doable

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
CHE250
Grade: C
Jan 9, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker is by far my favorite professor at ISU in the chemistry department. He goes mostly off of his lecture notes so you can almost guarantee that's what the exams will look like. There was also a group research project that really helped with your grade if you do bad on exams. He really cares about the students and is there for you. 10/10.

Caring
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: C
Jan 16, 2024

Lectures are disorganized and important to the exams. There are 4 exams, a final, and an online quiz each week. Homework is online and counts for points. Tough grader.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: C
Oct 4, 2024

This professor is incredibly incapable of teaching even basic chemistry concepts in an understandable way. From my experience, youtube videos covering the topics will give you much better information this Chris Hamaker ever will. He also "does not believe in multiple choice questions" so you will be doing almost entirely short answer questions.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
CHE140
Oct 5, 2024

You need to go to the lectures in order to understand what is going on in the class. Even then he doesnt even full explain the material that is being taught. If youre taking this course, unless your'e a genius, prepare to get a tutor or completely teach yourself all the material before the exams.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 5, 2024

Professor Hamaker does not teach all of the information he gives on tests. I have an outside tutor who has to teach me half of the material in order for me to even know what topic we are learning during class. There are many things we don't cover in class that are all on the homework and tests.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHE140
Oct 5, 2024

The amount of homework that is given in this class is insane. lectures are also all over the place, there's no structure to what is being taught making the course almost impossible to understand.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHE140
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 5, 2024

He does not explain things in an understandable way, he rushes past important concepts. I go to EVERY lecture and am still struggling a lot in this class. He never covered a basic review of chemistry even though it is likely many of us haven't taken a chemistry class in a long time. I do not recommend taking this class with him whatsoever.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
CHE140
Grade: A-
Oct 22, 2024
Would take again

I don't know what group of students wrongfully decided to give Dr. Hamaker 1.0 ratings. Lectures are easy to follow along, notes are easy to use when completing homework. Yes, there's a heavy load of homework, but exam questions are taken from homework and benefit you in preparing for exams. He's a sweet old man who loves to teach, great class!

Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Nov 21, 2024
Would take again

The list of 1.0 ratings has to be a group of students who are failing. I wasnt going to give Hamaker a rating but seeing those 1s made me want to. if you go to class(and pay attention is the key), do the Aktiv homework, and ask questions in or outside of class when you're unsure of smtg this class is no problem. easy A or B. Hamaker is a great prof

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Nov 22, 2024
Would take again

Only time I've not been on the verge of failing a science class in my life. Amazing lecturer that challenges you fairly.

Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
3.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: B
Dec 10, 2024
Would take again

Hammaker's lectures are fast-moving and all testable material. He assigns about 150-200 hw questions per unit. My best advice is to go to class. I went to almost every lecture and still got a tutor for help and did okay. I'm a bio major and thanking the lord I have only one semester left of chem

Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: B
Dec 13, 2024
Would take again

He was a good person, and he was a pretty good professor. He was very reachable outside of class and was kind. His lectures were a little all over the place.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: A-
Dec 14, 2024
Would take again

He cares very much about his students. He is aware chemistry is not everyone's cup of tea but he understands the subject and how to teach it well. The homework doesn't count for much of the grade and there is a lot of it but if you don't do it you have no shot at passing. The tests are hard but the worst one gets dropped.

Lots of homework
Caring
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
CHEM140
Grade: A
Dec 20, 2024
Would take again

His lectures are really engaging, he takes his notes on the whiteboard so apart from getting notes from people in the class they're not posted on canvas or anything. He has a lot of things that count towards your grade which makes it easier to get a high grade. Just make sure to do everything that is graded and not miss any labs.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
5.0
2.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Dec 21, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker was by far my favorite professor. He is really passionate about chemistry and it shows. He is very kind and is totally willing to help you! He doesn't use slides for lecture, but rather writes everything on the whiteboard. It's easy to get an A/pass if you do all the homework and quizzes which directly prepare you for the exams!

Amazing lectures
Caring
Accessible outside class
4.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: B
Dec 26, 2024
Would take again

Lectures are engaging, but the tests are challenging. Using resources like Unstuckstudy alongside the free textbook helps prepare. Attendance is a must - Dr. Hamaker explains things clearly, and office hours are very helpful.

5.0
4.0
CHE140
Grade: C
Dec 27, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker is amazing, your grade is definitely worked for throughout the semester. Utilize office hours, he cares deeply for students and wants to see you succeed! Make sure you go to class and take notes! He is very clear what is tested on exams as well :)

Gives good feedback
Respected
Test heavy
5.0
1.0
CHE140
Grade: A
Jan 22, 2025
Would take again

Dr. Hamaker is a great professor. He is fast paced, but he is amazing at helping during office hours if needed. You do have to attend class because he is a white-board kind of teacher. There is also a good amount of homework but the test questions are pulled directly from the homework so if you work to understand the homework you will do well!

Participation matters
Caring
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
CHE140
Grade: A+
Feb 17, 2025
Would take again

While attendance isn't mandatory, he only uses a whiteboard for lectures so no online material posted. Textbook is free, for every unit which is about 4 weeks there's 150 questions that the test is pulled from. If you understand lectures then the tests are fine. Best teacher and super understanding! highly recommend

Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
CHE140
Grade: B
Feb 17, 2025
Would take again

This class was made so much better due to Dr. Hamaker, he cares about his students, the homework may seem like a lot up front, but that is due to it all being posted at the beginning and if you break it down it is about 50 problems a week 10 a weekday. Also attend lectures, don't skip (even if it's an 8AM!)

Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
CHE141
Grade: B
May 7, 2025
Would take again

Biggest advice - ATTEND CLASS! He is a whiteboard and marker kinda prof. He moves fast, but will always stop for questions and encourages students to ask them. He is a very sweet man who is really passionate about chem. Go to office hours, get a tutor, pay attention in class. He gives partial credit on exams and the final is easy to study for!

Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

58%

Textbook Required

45%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 62 grades
Most common grades:
A (18)
C (9)
B (9)
Grade Distribution
A(23)B(12)C(13)D(7)F(1)A-/B+(6)
Based on 69 reported grades
A: 18
C: 9
B: 9
Not sure yet: 7
Common Tags
Lecture heavy (25)
Test heavy (18)
Skip class? You won't pass. (14)
Lots of homework (14)
Accessible outside class (11)
Caring (10)
Respected (10)
Clear grading criteria (10)
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