4.1

Darren J. Gottke

Chemistry - American River College

4.1
Quality
3.5
Difficulty
82%
Would Retake
107
Reviews
4.1
Quality
3.5
Difficulty
4.0
Helpful
4.1
Clarity

82%

Would Retake

107

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

58

4

25

3

10

2

6

1

8

What Students Say

Professor Gottke is a man of science

CHEM305 - 5.0 rating

Gottke is such great professor that I actually like chemistry now

CHEM305 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

68%

Textbook Required

44%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 62 grades
Most common grades:
A (21)
B (10)
B+ (7)
Grade Distribution
A(28)B(11)C(11)D(5)F(0)A-/B+(9)
Based on 68 reported grades
A: 21
B: 10
B+: 7
A+: 7
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (20)
Clear grading criteria (20)
Test heavy (20)
Lecture heavy (15)
Caring (11)
Tough grader (11)
Respected (9)
EXTRA CREDIT (9)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.23 avg change
Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
May
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHEM305306

5.0

(1)

CHEMCHEM

5.0

(1)

CHEM310

4.7

(3)

CHEM305

4.1

(70)

CHEM306

4.1

(31)
+1 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CHEMCHEM

5.0

310

4.0

CHEM305306

4.0

CHEM306

3.6

CHEM305

3.5

Reviews (107)
5.0
4.0
CHEM305306
Apr 10, 2005

He explains things very well, is always willing to help. Makes class material manageable. He is very intelligent and is truely interested in Chemistry and can answer any question you may have. I would reccomed him to a friend.

5.0
2.0
CHEM306
Jun 7, 2006

He is very helpful on assignments. He made the lecture easily understood; in fact, he has his lecture notes emailed to us. His lecture notes were easy to understand as to compare to the books. I would recommend this teacher.

5.0
2.0
CHEM306
Jul 12, 2006

He is the best. Chem 306 is very hard class but he makes it easier to understand.If you take notes and pay attention to his lecture, you will be OK. I just pay attentiI did open my book to write questions. I did not read any lines in the book. I just read his lecture notes and notes that I took during his lecture and I got a good grade.

5.0
2.0
CHEM306
Jul 12, 2006

He is the best.Try to get every single points in his class.It will add up at the end of semester.Do not say,"well this quiz is just 5 points;it is ok to miss."He gives you quiz every day and if you study for them,the big tests are breeze.I am so happy that I took his class and sorry for those who took this class with the other teacher, lady.

3.0
5.0
CHEM306
May 22, 2007

The lecture notes are great! The test is ridiculously hard. There is a multiple choice section and 4 pages of written section. The written questions are 4pts and higher each. I dedicated a lot of time to this class and did perfect on labs and homework,but the quizzes and tests is what gets you. Not easy B.

2.0
4.0
CHEM306
May 23, 2007

Nice enough guy. Lecture is all lecture; interaction only if questions. Tests were very hard & things were sometimes thrown in that were discussed very minimally or mentioned in passing. Make sure you do well on everything else to compensate for tests. No feedback on HW or tests unless you ask. Unit xms not returned prior to finals.

4.0
5.0
CHEM306
Aug 13, 2007

Do NOT take his class if you are looking for an esey A to pad your grades. But if you are looking to learn Biochem this is your man.

5.0
1.0
CHEM306
Aug 25, 2007

I found this professor to be very easy and definitely willing to help anyone who wants help. I really have to advise all of to be prepared to study throughout all the course, and especially in biochemistry section of the course. By the time you finish his class, you will definitely have a good idea about organic and biochemistry!!!

5.0
2.0
CHEM306
Mar 12, 2008

this class is so much better than general chemistry and this teacher is amazing. I am so glad that i had prof. terschak before this. gottke needs a raise and should be teaching at sac state. his enthusiasm is great. he knows everything and anything. tests require all your brain cells, but there are many opportunities for points. copy all examples.

4.0
4.0
CHEM305
Aug 22, 2008

Prof Gottke is awesome! Took his class over summer and although it was extremely fast paced, he made it extremely manageable! Be prepared to study study study!!! Exams can be a bit tricky, but points can be made up easily in other areas of the class ie quizzes, labs, and hw.

5.0
5.0
CHEM306
Aug 25, 2008

Great professor! What else could I say? Lectures straight to the point if students have questions he is always there to answer. Try to get every single point in his class it will really help you at the end. Fair professor!!! Highly RECOMMENDED!!!

5.0
1.0
CHEM306
Dec 17, 2008

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! One of the best teacher out there. TAKE HIS CLASS!! He gives quizes daily to make sure your on the right track. The quizes helps with the exam. I find his class pretty easy cause he is so easy to understand. He lectures straight to the point and is very knowledgeable. He's very well prepared and is always willing to help. =)

3.0
4.0
CHEM306
May 13, 2009

This teacher is knowledgable of the subject but I found his class to be difficult for the following reasons:No beacon tutor, does not use blackboard or D2L, tests and quizzes are worded funny and are tricky, provides no study guides for any of the exams, midterm, or final. Would advise to take with a different teacher.

5.0
4.0
CHEM306
Jul 24, 2009

He's good and cute.

4.0
4.0
CHEM306
Jul 26, 2009

Good professor. His lectures are clear and easy to understand. There are daily quizzes which are easy if you study for them. The only thing that sucks are his exams as they are difficult. Get ready to STUDY, STUDY, STUDY! Make sure you get every point you can as he does not curve anything.

4.0
4.0
CHEM306
Jul 31, 2009

Prof. Gottke is great at teaching a difficult subject. He sends out his lecture material, which presents the information clearly and structured. Gives daily quizzes. Lab points are also important. Class gets increasingly difficult and be prepared to do a lot of studying. This class really helped me w/ A&P (BIO 430 & 431 esp.). Highly recommended!!

5.0
2.0
CHEM310
Nov 25, 2009

Great teacher, recommend as a prep class for 400. If you had prior chem classes this one should be simple(review of 305). He loves daily quizzes their not hard if you review previous lecture notes. Exams are not* as hard as people say just do the hw and its like a review for exams. it's a tough subject but manageable. :)

5.0
3.0
CHEM306
Apr 16, 2010

This professor was a great teacher. he really knew the material. i took this class while also going to sac state and still think that he is one of the best professors i had. he really knows how to teach a tough subject so his students come out knowing what they need to know.

5.0
4.0
CHEM306
May 21, 2010

One word - phenomenal. Loved the class, learned so much. Last class for nursing - it was my favorite science because of him. Do NOT get behind. Stay on top daily, study hard, you can get an A. He focuses on what's important, doesn't bog you down with stupid memorization, and allows you to spend critical time learning instead. HIGHLY recommend.

5.0
3.0
CHEM306
Jul 25, 2010

Darren is by far the best science teacher I have had! He is VERY organized and extremely helpful. His quizes/tests are straight from his lecture notes! There are no surprises. His homework packet for every unit is very similar to his unit tests! I wish he could teach all my science classes! It's organic chem he makes it easy as possible.

3.0
5.0
CHEM306
Aug 24, 2010

Difficult class, especially taken during summer school. Not approachable.

5.0
1.0
CHEM306
Oct 19, 2010

VERY GOOD PROFESSOR. HE MAKES THIS HARD CLASS VERY EASY AND SIMPLE. HIS HOMEWORK PACKET IS BASICALLY HIS STUDY GUIDE WHICH IS VERY SIMILAR TO THE TEST. HE GIVES EXTRA CREDIT TOWARDS THE END OF THE SEMESTER. IF YOU WANT AN A OR B THIS IS THE CLASS TO TAKE, BUT MAKE SURE YOU DON'T GET BEHIND.

5.0
5.0
CHEMCHEM
Dec 18, 2011

THIS CLASS WAS BY FAR THE HARDEST CLASS I HAVE EVER HAD TO TAKE, HOWEVER PROFESSOR GOTTKE MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO FAIL....AMAZING, ORGANIZED CLEAR FAIR TEACHER....IF GIVEN THE CHANCE I WOULD CHOOSE HIM OVER ANY CHEM TEACHER OUT THERE....

5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Jan 4, 2012

Prof. Gottke is a thorough professional. He provides a very balanced and great learning experience. There are a variety of ways to learn and succeed. You need to stay on top of things and work dilengently. He wants you to be able to use your head so be prepared for a good academic challenge that will benefit you for the future.

3.0
5.0
CHEM306
Apr 19, 2012

Hardest class I have had to date. He is not approachable,doesnt give exam reviews, chooses problems harder than in lecture on exams, gives very little extra credit opportunities and is a really hard grader. No partial points. He isnt helpful in lab, either. I dont see how others have rated him high, our class average is around 70%. do not take him.

5.0
3.0
CHEM306
Apr 22, 2012

Prof.Gottke is a great professor. He is very organized and keeps the class simple. The labs are easy and straightforward. Make sure you go to lecture, because he will test you ONLY on what he covers in lecture!I only needed the book to do the homework and for short references. No office hours thoughso if you're stuck on something see him in lab/lec

3.0
5.0
CHEM306
May 23, 2012

Professor Gottke is a very nice guy, but this was the hardest class I have ever taken. The tests were really hard, and there was not that much extra credit. I know many people in my class who were A students and did not get an A in his class. Having said that, Chemistry is a hard course so do not take it if you do not want to work hard.

2.0
5.0
CHEM306
Jul 16, 2012

Hard class. Test does not correlate with lecture or homework. No sense of humor to make lecture enjoyable.

4.0
5.0
CHEM306
Aug 13, 2012

Took this class over summer. Attendance is not mandatory but there are quizzes every day. There were five unit exams and 2 finals. No exam review sessions. He only tests on topics that are covered in lecture but exam problems are harder than lecture examples. Study and stay on top of material and you should get an A. Only need for textbook is do Hw

3.0
5.0
CHEM306
Sep 21, 2012

Hard-recommend summer sess only for adv chem students. Pros: knowledgeable, good lect notes before exams, HW sim to exams, 5 pts. xtra cred q on every exam, learned much; Cons: No D2L or PP, talks & writes too quickly (for me), extremely hard exams-need critical thinking, detail. Tricky q's and tough grader. Stressful. Good luck if you take him.

4.0
1.0
CHEM305
Dec 2, 2013

Super laid back professor. He lectures only on whats on his exam he doesn't give study guides, but it is very clear what he will test on. Labs are simple, the book is not needed other than for homework, and homework is only due the day of the exams. He also doesn't take attendance.

5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Dec 5, 2013

Professor Gottke is awesome at teaching a difficult subject. His lectures are clear and he tests only on whats covered in lecture. He doesn't give "study guides" but does give practice problems, which if you can do them you will be fine on the test. Also gives partial credit on test. Overall a wonderful professor who I would take again!

4.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
Dec 23, 2013

Can't believe all the negative reviews! This class is one of the hardest classes I have taken, but if you put in the effort you can pass! Darren is VERY clear and great at presenting the material so you can understand! So glad I took chem with him! Just do the work and if you need help get it! More than fair professor just make sure you keep up!

5.0
2.0
CHEM306
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2014

Nice guy. Class is very basic organic/bio chemistry. Very fair. I'd say he has a very similar testing style to UC Davis professors - for exams know not only the material, but be able to apply it, because HE DOES NOT cover every TYPE of problem there will be on the exams. In order to get an A, practice harder examples of the problems from lecture.

3.0
4.0
CHEM306
Grade: A
May 18, 2014

This is a tough course so pay lots of attention. Do not rely on memorization because the exams require you to think outside the box. He only tests on what he talks about & pretty much everything is on the lecture notes posted on D2L. He kinda came off as a jerk at first but I love his teaching style. I've learned so many interesting things!

4.0
4.0
CHEM306
Aug 3, 2014

Take someone else if you can. He is a knowledgable professor, but writes everything on board and has messy handwriting. Rushes through concepts and puts them on test without students grasping the idea well. Doesn't use D2L, no dropped exams.

4.0
4.0
CHEM310
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2014

Professor Gottke was amazing! His tests were fairly hard, but are doable. They were very long, so do not waste your time. The labs and homework were easy and he is a fair grader. However, he does seem to get angered if you ask to many questions, but it's your grade. I would highly recommend him!

5.0
1.0
CHEM310
Dec 21, 2014

Professor Gottke is an awesome. He is very clear during his lectures. His tests are very challenging; however, he lets you use multiple formula and nomenclature handouts to use during the tests. The homework is only as hard as you want to make it. Professor Gottke returned all graded assignments back to the class the very next class meeting.

3.0
4.0
310
Grade: C+
Dec 29, 2014

good professor!! very helpful when you ask to clarify something

2.0
5.0
CHEM306
Mar 28, 2015

He throws random stuff on the tests. I asked for help many times and he really wanted no part of it. I studied a lot and always attended class. I loved lab

4.0
3.0
CHEM306
Grade: A
Aug 19, 2015

I took this with Bio 430(A&P) and I though it was much easier the Chem 305. The instructor provides easy to under stand lectures and clear cut notes which reflect test material. Would recommend to anyone needing take this class as long as you work and study hard you will pass.

4.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
Jun 1, 2016
Would take again

It's chemistry, it's a tough subject, but Gottke is a very knowledgeable professor and has an effective teaching style. Very helpful in labs. Textbook is supplemental. Overall class average grade was a C. Class consists of weekly quizzes, 5 homework assignments, 5 unit exams, and 1 comprehensive final. Small extra credit opportunity given.

5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Jul 29, 2016
Would take again

Was really afraid of taking it but realized that It's not as bad as I expected. There are 5 point quizez every day except after an exam. 5 unit exams and one final one which is really easy. The first 3 exams are pretty easy, last two more tricky. The teacher doesn't put anything on the exam that isn't covered in class. Labs are ok. Hw short/easy.

4.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Aug 23, 2016
Would take again

Really enjoyed Gottke's 305 summer class. He's passionate about chemistry and doesn't mind helping students achieve success. Looks young but you can tell he has experience in the teaching business. Makes lectures fun and enjoyable and labs interesting and fun as well. Wish he had a CHEM 400 class. Definitely recommend

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
Caring
4.0
2.0
CHEM305
Nov 28, 2016
Would take again

Took his class over the summer, really great teacher. Explains material very thoroughly, takes unnecessary parts out of labs and streamlines them, gives fair amount of extra credit, has a simple, sensible, easy-to-follow grading system. Attendance not mandatory in lecture but he gives a small quiz at the start of every class to encourage timeliness

5.0
3.0
CHEM305
May 3, 2017
Would take again

He is too passionate, tests are quite hard but only on the things he lectures about. Never relate to lab stuff to study for the test. No prelab, your best chance at getting a good grade is doing the easy labs and the 25 quizzes during the semester. The final is multiple choice.

Tough Grader
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
Jun 20, 2017
Would take again

He will provide you with periodic table & chemical formation handouts & so on, on the tests so you don't have to memorize a whole lot. Exams will be hard but very fair. Prepare for the quizzes for the beginning of every class, eventually will be extra credit. He is awesome! Take him

Gives good feedback
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Jul 28, 2017
Would take again

Seriously the BEST professor ever!!! I'm SO happy I took him over summer! I was so scared of Chem and hated it, but this class made me actually enjoy it. He gives very small quizzes at the beginning of each lecture which are easy and help you later on, and will check your labs if you ask. Pay attention & ask questions and exams won't be hard!

Gives good feedback
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Clear grading criteria
4.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
Aug 12, 2017
Would take again

He has really high expectations, but he's willing to help you understand. The class taught me I'm actually ok at science!

Gives good feedback
Respected
Caring
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2017
Would take again

Gottke was a great professor, his lectures made the topic easy to understand and digest. He offers help outside of class too so you can always ask him questions and hell do his best to answer them. Hes really passionate about what he teaches and you can see that when he lectures. Great professor overall!

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: B+
Jan 12, 2018
Would take again

Professor Gottke is a man of science. You can feel the presence of his motivation before you even step in the room. His passion for teaching makes you want to learn. The exams can be slightly overwhelming, but he makes it very clear on day one. Take notes. Study them. He will NOT test you on anything he didn't already cover in his lectures.

Amazing lectures
Caring
Would take again
1.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Jan 31, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Professor Gottke was very hard for my to follow, I felt there was no time to ask questions and when you did he made you feel like they needed to be very intellectual. I felt like I would have done better if he would have been able to "dumb it down", not only speak in chemistry jargon but to be able to apply it to everyday aspects.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: C+
Apr 30, 2018
Would take again

Prof. Gottke LOVES to teach chemistry. He is very organized, passionate, and approachable. You NEED to study to pass this class. 5 difficult tests, daily quizzes, cumulative final. Gives partial credit for wrong answers. I learned a lot in this class, mainly that I can learn chemistry and enjoy it. I highly recommend this professor.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
May 5, 2018
Would take again

5 written exams plus a multiple choice cumulative final. 20 easy quizzes. One of the best professors. Lectures are clear and he is a lenient grader. Amazing professor. Wish I could take him for my future chem classes.

Respected
TEST HEAVY
Caring
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
May 16, 2018
Would take again

The best science professor that I've ever had. It made me really enjoy chemistry. Great lectures, funny, and will help you before class if you don't understand a particular concept. Just do all the assignments and you will pass. There is not a lot of work involved. I HIGHLY recommend this teacher.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
May 24, 2018
Would take again

Gottke is such great professor that I actually like chemistry now. Theres a quiz at the begining of each class, which I loved because it would make me go over my notes before class & go over anything I didnt quite understand. His exams have 3 chapters each & resemble the questions on the quizzes & provides the periodic table for each, take him!

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: C+
Jun 13, 2018
Would take again

Clearly he is passionate about teaching chem! Such a great professor, organized, gives note sheets for exams and you know what exactly the tests are on. Hard class but he makes it enjoyable

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Clear grading criteria
4.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
Aug 12, 2018
Would take again

Great teacher. Doesnt give a lot of hw. Exams are 50% of your grade. Took him for 8 weeks summer course. Quiz pretty much every class meeting. Show up, do hw, study and youll pass with at least a B. I would take him again.

Participation matters
TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Sep 2, 2018
Would take again

He is such a great professor and he teaches in such a way that no matter how good or bad you might be with sciences you will understand everything he covers. If you do not understand something he is open to questions and is always available to help outside of class. He is also an energetic character and makes lectures and labs fun and easy.

Gives good feedback
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Caring
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: C
Mar 1, 2019
Would take again

Awesome teacher. Would highly recommend. Although he gives a quiz every class it is beneficial so you know the material for the big exams. Exams are hard but he is a lenient grader. Class is interesting and he does a great job explaining and demonstrating things. Textbook required but didnt need it. Only used it for a few homework assignments.

Respected
Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A+
May 22, 2019
Would take again

Prof. Gottke is an outstanding educator. He knows the material inside and out; delivering the concepts in a clear and digestible manner. Chem305 contains a good portion of math so brush up on Dimensional Analysis. Dont skip class and take good notes, you will pass the course with at least a B. He provides tools to succeed! (formulas/per. Table)(:

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Clear grading criteria
4.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
May 28, 2019
Would take again

Professor Gottke is a great professor. He do gives out quizzes majority of the time before lecturing and some of the quizzes towards the end of the semester will go for extra credit. HW is easy, lab is great, tests are pretty tough if you don't study. Most likely your grades will base on your HW, Lab work, quiz, and tests. Taking notes is the key!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Beware of pop quizzes
Caring
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A+
May 28, 2019
Would take again

Professor Gottke is a remarkable chemistry professor. If you take notes during lecture, then you don't need to read a book. I used a book only for the homework. Every class starts with the quiz. Not a lot of homework. One of the best professors I have ever had. With a little effort, you can get an A.

Respected
Inspirational
Clear grading criteria
4.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A-
Jun 8, 2019
Would take again

Dont miss more than one or two lectures or you will fall behind bad. The guy doesnt waste a second in his lectures. A lot of people dropped that couldnt handle it. But I thought he was great. One of my favorite professors honestly and low key hilarious.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A+
Jun 13, 2019
Would take again

Amazing lecturer. Extremely articulate. Take good notes during class because they will show up on the exam. Very friendly and passionate about Chemistry. I have taken other professors for Chem and he cares by far the most.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: C
Aug 2, 2019
Wouldn't take again

The only + - he is passionate. He is a damn tough grader and marks down significantly for very minor details. Its actually stupid. Quiz every day opportunity to miss points. His explanations arent clear. The tests are very time consuming and disgustingly hard; problems he doesnt teach how to do at all! DO NOT take! Especially in summer.

Test heavy
Beware of pop quizzes
Tough grader
5.0
2.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Aug 8, 2019
Would take again

This professor was amazing!!! Having chem for a summer course is not easy!! but he totally made it less difficult. He teaches very clearly and makes chemistry easy to understand. Does gives quizzes daily but it totally helps prepare for exams. The final is not difficult its really broad!! Take this professor if you want an A in chem!!

Gives good feedback
Respected
Lots of homework
2.0
4.0
CHEM305
Sep 3, 2019
Wouldn't take again

He takes points off for everything. There are lots of hard questions on the exams, without sufficient time to respond. Don't take this class in summer - fasssttttt pace.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
2.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: C
Oct 24, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Chem is not my strongest subject and he doesn't make it any easier. He teaches a lot per class and lecture usually runs an extra 5-10 minutes. He doesn't review before tests or answer questions very clearly he just gives more examples. For a general ed. class I wouldn't recommend taking. And quizzes are given at least once a week.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Nov 4, 2019
Would take again

He explains class in a way that anyone will understand and he makes himself available to students. It is an easy class to pass if you do the practice sheets he gives you and if you are punctual. you WILL have to attend the lab and do the work, we cover a lot of material in one single class. The book will not help you if you miss classes.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
4.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
May 24, 2020
Would take again

I took his Chem class in summer when I was a high schooler and let me just say that he is the best teacher I have ever had. His lectures are a bit too fast but they are all clear. He is always open to questions. I recommend his class!

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Jul 30, 2020
Would take again

Took his online 8-week summer course. Didnt feel too rushed, and labs were easier since data was provided to you. Quizzes/exams/final all open note. Usually am horrible at chem, but this time I did great and learned a lot! Prof. Gottke will always answer any questions quickly if you email him, and he is very professional.

Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: D
Jul 31, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Horrible to take during covid. Lectures are literally MP3 recordings paired with his illegible handwritten notes. If you are a visual learner like me, you're screwed. You're basically teaching yourself. Doesn't drop lowest exam grade, last 5 quizzes are extra credit. Allows open book/notes

Test heavy
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: B-
Aug 3, 2020
Would take again

Professor Gottke instructed my first online class and he did an amazing job catering to the students who were making the transition. Even without in person lab/lectures he was always so helpful and on top of it. His material was challenging but well worth it, I 100% recommend his course! Also offers plenty of extra credit if you work hard

Accessible outside class
Participation matters
Caring
5.0
4.0
CHEM306
Grade: A+
Aug 31, 2020
Would take again

Wonderful professor. Explains things so clearly. Very straightforward, you won't be confused by anything if you pay attention in lecture (or record for later). Your lecture notes are your best study guide. Daily quizzes are actually so helpful.

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
CHEM305
Dec 21, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Be aware CHEM 305 students. His class is horrible to take during Covid. If you are a visual learner you will have hard time in his class. His white board is not clear, he does not offer any power point slide either. Be ready to teach your self. Exams are very hard, he doesn't give you study guide before exam. He takes points off for everything

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: B+
Dec 24, 2020
Would take again

I was terrified to take Chemistry, especially online. He's a great professor and genuinely wants you to do good in his class. His lectures a recorded, & he provides you with pdf's of his lecture notes. I do think his exams can be hard but not in a way that he's trying to trick you. Exams come straight from lecture notes.

Accessible outside class
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
Jan 5, 2021
Would take again

Professor Gottke is awesome. He provides a recorded video lecture and notes for every class session. He grades assignments very quickly (normally within one day) & is great at responding to emails in a timely manner.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: D+
Apr 6, 2021
Wouldn't take again

His class exams are 47% of the grade and he is a tough grader. Seems bothered when you ask for help. I would not suggest taking his online class, it will leave you feeling helpless.

Test heavy
So many papers
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: D+
Apr 27, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I can't speak for his in person class as I took his class online during covid. The cons of this professor are his exceptionally tough grading and unclear lecture notes. The lectures are ok but some are very long and only mp3, so it's hard to stay engaged. All together I would not recommend this class in online format.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: C+
Dec 27, 2021
Would take again

One of the best teachers I've ever had. Passionate about the subject and keeps lectures very interesting. This is a tough c lass where you need to study, but everything is pretty manageable. You get 5 tests, the final, and a small 2 question quiz every lecture. The hardest aspect of the class are the exams, best way to review are your notes.

Respected
Test heavy
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
Jan 10, 2022
Would take again

Very good professor. Material is difficult but he was always willing to help. So glad he chose to have class in person last semester!

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
May 15, 2022
Would take again

Great professor. Test are hard but manageable, and there is tons of work to get your grade up. Taking all assignments seriously for all will count towards your grade and will help you out in the long run. Take his class, a great professor who will be attentive and will respond to emails relatively fast. Loved his class.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Respected
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: C
May 17, 2022
Would take again

For someone like myself who has never taken a chemistry class, I definitely recommend Prof. Gottke. Any Chem class is going to be tough, but he's a fair grader, and goes over the chapters pretty well. Utilize the extra practice problems on Canvas, show ALL of your work on tests, look over each chapter before class, and you will pass.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
CHEM305
Grade: A+
Jun 3, 2022
Would take again

10/10 would recommend! Gottke is super funny, caring, and helpful! There are a lot of quizzes(one each lecture day), but they are easy and actually helped me to do a quick review outside of the classroom. The homework, labs, and exams are all great! LOVED IT!

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Caring
3.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: B
Jun 28, 2022

Hes a shorter guy the size of a goblin so its very hard to see what he write on the board due to him writing lower. I sit on the far left back of the class and I couldnt see anything most the semester. I just had to trust what he said and keep going. Overall good guy.

Gives good feedback
So many papers
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Jul 3, 2022
Would take again

Such a great professor! Passionate about the subject and will teach you what you need to know. Test are hard but doable and you can make tons of points through hw/labs/quizzes. Highly recommend him. Responds to emails fast, cares about chemistry and wants you to succeed. Loved his class(took his class inperson and not remote)

Tough grader
EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Aug 20, 2022
Would take again

Prof Gottke is awesome! He is super educated and his passion for chemistry shines through in his lectures. He never made me feel stupid when asking questions, just a super chill guy. summer course so we had a quiz almost every lecture BUT if you paid attention you will pass them will ease. He gives points for work shown on exams. 10/10!!!

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
5.0
2.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Sep 7, 2022
Would take again

Easily the best prof. I've had while in college. very passionate about what he teaches and doesn't mind spending extra time to help you understand what is going on in the class. Lectures are very clear and extremely thorough which makes the concepts extremely easy to follow and understand.

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
Graded by few things
5.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 7, 2022
Would take again

Professor Gottke is an amazing lecturer! He makes the Chemistry very understandable! Each class starts with a quiz, there's lab assignments, homework, 5 unit exams and a final exam one week after the last exam! Test heavy! A negative: he lectures on brand new material on Tues that will be on a big exam on Thurs which isn't enough time to study it.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
CHEM305
Grade: B+
Sep 12, 2023
Would take again

I took Chem 305 during the summer with Professor Gottke after failed it in the spring semester. He is oldschool butI think that is the best way to learn, it keep you engaged. The lecture and lab are always super thorough and helpful. I actually understood chemistry! -heavily oral lecture -all work on paper, no canvas -hank green/Walter white dupe

Clear grading criteria
Respected
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 17, 2023

He doesn't take role making class seem very impersonal as he does not bother to know your name. He is very old school in the sense that nothing is submitted or posted online! Not even your grade! He also quizzes students every class period which does not help your grade in the class.

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: Rather not say
Oct 11, 2023

He lectures very fast. Tends to introduce new material the day before the unit exams. Labs are practical but may cover new material not yet covered in class. Quizzes almost daily and reviews them in class. There are no test prep or reviews for the exams. Class is for the math- science savvy. Answers questions after class/breaks. He is a nice guy.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 28, 2023

I could not relate to this Professor. Not sure why these students gave him such a high score but other students and myself agreed these ratings are lies. Can't use notes. Says not to memorize anything but you definitely need to. Seems like he didn't want to engage with students in lecture and lab. Unwilling to really help. Do not take!!

Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
1.0
CHEM305
Grade: A+
Dec 16, 2023
Would take again

To be clear, this is not a level 1 dufficulty class. This is a hard class. This is probably one of the easiest options out there for chem though. He gives you several papers with a bunch of information that you can use on exams/final which most classes would make you memorize. I have no idea how I could have done that. Final is multiple choice.

EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
CHEM305
Grade: B+
Dec 17, 2023
Would take again

He was an amazing professor, made me love Chem 305. We did have a 5 point quiz in the beginning of each lecture, but they were all easy. As long as you review the previous lecture notes, you're good. Something to note was that he doesn't use canvas. If you miss a lecture, then ask someone for notes, or you're screwed. Other than that, he's great!

Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
May 4, 2024
Would take again

Such a great professor. Chemistry is a challenging subject, but Prof. Gottke breaks it down into bite-size pieces and explains them clearly during his intelligible, interesting lectures. Basically never uses the [free] textbook, so you need to show up to class. Fair grader. As long as you do the work, you can't ask for a better Chem professor.

Caring
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: C+
May 17, 2024
Would take again

Prof. Gottke was a great chemistry teacher overall. 5pt Quizzes every class and 5 unit exams total. While the class itself was hard he made it understandable as much as he could. Has some time before class to access zoom and ask questions and overall a really chill prof. If you take the night class, no he's not bothered by you we're all tired.

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
1.0
CHEM305
Grade: C
May 30, 2024
Would take again

Darren Gottche was an excellent Chem 305 Professor at American River College. His texts and quizzes are easy. His questions are easy in his Unit Exams and Final Exam quizzes. Has good homework based on the paper version. He provides answers in Canvas for all homework. His last questions were extra credit. His final exams were all multiple-choices,

EXTRA CREDIT
Caring
Respected
4.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: A-
Jul 10, 2024
Would take again

Great professor, and one of the most insightful people. I took it during summer, so it was very fast paced. There was a quiz every day. Near the end, I started zoning out of class because I found the tests and lectures started disconnecting. Final exam/review was more than covered in class. One of the few professors that wants you to ask questions.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: B+
Aug 26, 2024
Would take again

Great Professor! Difficulty is average but if you attend lectures everything is covered. He is good with feedback and will work with you if you are stuck. Quizzes daily, but are pretty easy.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
3.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: B+
Jan 19, 2025
Would take again

Great Professor! He's very straightforward and doesn't use Canvas or textbooks, which I thought was old school at first, but it actually works. Just pay attention in class and take detailed notes. Daily 5pt quiz but tip is to review last lecture and hw because the questions are very similar to the hw. A great class for those who stay consistent!

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: B+
Feb 5, 2025
Would take again

Prof. Gottke is a great chemistry teacher who makes the material really engaging. While the class can be challenging, his clear explanations and use of practice questions help a lot. unstuck ai was a game-changer for preparing for the exams and quizzes.

5.0
5.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
Mar 7, 2025
Would take again

Never seen Chem before this class. Took this class in the summer of 11th (freshman at T10 rn) and Gottke is the best Chem Prof I've had. I found his class harder than Chem here, but maybe things get easier the more you understand and like Chem. Highly recommend 305 Chem w/ him. Great guy and lecturer. I'm still using his railroad method for Stoich!

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: A
May 22, 2025
Would take again

Prof Gottke was an awesome professor. He went through problems with us during class, clarified our questions from lec and lab. Easy 5pt quizzes (five quizzes were extra cred) every class based on the lec before, which prepares for the 6 exams. Easy A if you ask him questions to help you understand, and he will do his very best to help you succeed.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
CHEM305
Grade: A+
May 25, 2025
Would take again

Perfect professor for chem. He explains every concept with depth. Made every lecture engaging and so you really learn. 5 unit exams, 1 cumulative final. There's a 5 point quiz at the beginning of each lecture covering topics from the previous lecture so make sure to study notes everyday. His class helped me pass the chem 400 placement test!

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
4.0
4.0
CHEM305
Grade: C
Dec 10, 2025
Would take again

You can tell that Professor Gottke really does enjoy chemistry and teaches it really carefully. I recommend studying almost every single day, though, if you wanna fully grasp the content, as by the 3rd unit, it does get very math-heavy.

Clear grading criteria
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

68%

Textbook Required

44%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 62 grades
Most common grades:
A (21)
B (10)
B+ (7)
Grade Distribution
A(28)B(11)C(11)D(5)F(0)A-/B+(9)
Based on 68 reported grades
A: 21
B: 10
B+: 7
A+: 7
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (20)
Clear grading criteria (20)
Test heavy (20)
Lecture heavy (15)
Caring (11)
Tough grader (11)
Respected (9)
EXTRA CREDIT (9)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.23 avg change
Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
May
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHEM305306

5.0

(1)

CHEMCHEM

5.0

(1)

CHEM310

4.7

(3)

CHEM305

4.1

(70)

CHEM306

4.1

(31)
+1 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CHEMCHEM

5.0

310

4.0

CHEM305306

4.0

CHEM306

3.6

CHEM305

3.5

Similar Professors