3.6

James Armstrong

Chemistry - City College of San Francisco

3.6
Quality
4.0
Difficulty
47%
Would Retake
96
Reviews
3.6
Quality
4.0
Difficulty
3.6
Helpful
3.6
Clarity

47%

Would Retake

96

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

51

4

9

3

10

2

8

1

18

What Students Say

Explains clearly in lectures

CHEM32 - 3.0 rating

The best teacher I ever had

CHEM32 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

92%

Textbook Required

69%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 16 grades
Most common grades:
A (5)
A- (3)
B+ (2)
Grade Distribution
A(6)B(1)C(2)D(2)F(1)A-/B+(5)
Based on 17 reported grades
A: 5
A-: 3
B+: 2
A+: 1
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (8)
Tough Grader (6)
Amazing lectures (3)
Gives good feedback (2)
Clear grading criteria (2)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (2)
Respected (2)
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS (2)
Rating Trend

Improving

+0.95 avg change
Dec
Jan
May
Aug
Jan
May
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHEMISTRY

5.0

(1)

CHEM101B

5.0

(1)

CHEM015

5.0

(1)

CHEM101L

5.0

(1)

CHEM208A

5.0

(1)
+11 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CHEM1A

5.0

CHEMISTRY101A

5.0

CHEM33

5.0

C7364

5.0

101A

4.5

Reviews (96)
4.0
5.0
CHEM101A
May 5, 2005

He is hard, but he makes his class fun after all... (Dr Price is better though...

1.0
5.0
CHEM101A
May 5, 2005

he shows general information on lectures and after his lectures u cann't solve problems, and his exams are very hard, he asks things that he doesn't teach, avoid that mofo

1.0
5.0
CHEM101
May 6, 2005

If you want a teacher who will belittle you and make you feel hopeless, he is for you. Very unwilling to help you. If you ask for any clarification at all, he just says " I don't know...what do you think" with a smug look on his face. I liked Chemistry before I took this schmuck.

4.0
4.0
CHEM101A
May 27, 2005

Mr. Armstrong is quite the character, he is very energetic at all times no matter how early it is in the morning. He definitely won't bore you, and he provides some very useful analogies. His handwriting is clear, and so is his speech. I find him a very good chemistry teacher. His exams may be tough, but they're the same ones that Dr. Price giv

5.0
4.0
CHEM101A
Jun 26, 2005

Good teacher and funny. Extremely clear and sharp in explaination. Although not particularly flexible and his grading is strictly "by the book", yet chem IS a tough course. Unless a "natural" expect to work very hard for a C or B. What you put in is what you get out and Armstrong will make sure you have the tools to get you where you are heading.

1.0
5.0
CHEM1A
Aug 23, 2005

It is true that he belittles students,it is very unecessary to do so as a teacher.His teaching is energetic.However it is not exactly helpful.In fact it is annoying once you get it into your head that your not really learning anything.Especially when exam time comes around it will it you.In comparison with other teachers he is poorly skilled.

5.0
2.0
CHEMLAB
Aug 30, 2005

No Comments

4.0
5.0
CHEMISTRY101A
Oct 8, 2005

The class he teaches chem 101A requires a fair bit of attention (read insane amount of work). However, Mr. Armstrong does a good job of presenting material. He knows his subject very well and is interesting to listen to. As far as I can tell, he's more than willing to answer any questions you may have. Well, unless you're lsomeone who waits till 5 minutes before the homework is due to ask a question.

5.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Grade: B+
Oct 18, 2005

High-energy, smart, entertaining and informative lecturer, *lots* of example problems in class. This was the hardest course I ever had, but I enjoyed it. Homework sets are harder than the text's, tests are very hard and too long to finish unless you know the material VERY well. Take Chem C with 101A - smaller class, more problem-solving practice.

5.0
3.0
CHEMISTRY
Jun 28, 2006

Great Professor! Very energenit, you will never get bored. he pairs you with another student in his class unlike the other professor. he only gives 2 exams, easy ones too. Take him, you won't regret it.

5.0
3.0
CHEM101
Nov 20, 2006

Dr. Armstrong is extremely helpful...he can make you visualize everything... he uses a lot of example... I think his explanation is the best base on my experience... he is the second teacher that I took for Chem 101A.. and he is the best!!!

1.0
5.0
CHEM101
Dec 27, 2006

He is not easy. He is not helpful because his lectures did not correlate to the exams. Although he speaks clear, he still gets a 1 for clarity because whatever he teaches during lecture is not what he realy tests on during his exams, so this means he is not being CLEAR. He is playing games. In fact he is extremely rude to students and exemplifi

5.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Jan 16, 2007

Friendly, enthusiastic, encouraging. The material is challenging but his lectures are straightforward and he's willing to answer questions. Mandatory weekly homework, but it helps you understand the material a lot. Quizzes/tests aren't easy, but managable if you do the work. His grading scale is felxible b/c the class is hard. Very good prof.

3.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Jan 31, 2007

I never despise a teacher so much in my life. He acts like he's a king and the class is his castle to rule with an iron fist. He has no sympathy for your mistakes and accepts no excuses. Sometimes I wonder if his heart was made of stone. Chemistry was enjoyable to me but he made it a living hell. Luckily I got some outside help with this course.

1.0
5.0
CHEM33
Apr 20, 2007

Worthless! In lecture everything seems clear,BUT, when it is time to do homework a totally different vocabulary is used in the homework compared to class. So you are not really sure what he is asking for. Also if you miss class you will not be able to finish your homework with the help of the book because he lectures on stuff that's not in the book

1.0
5.0
CHEM33
May 9, 2007

THere's not much to say. Do not take him unless you want your life to be a living hell. do not buy the book, there is not use for it. the tests are incomprihensible. whatever he teaches in class is not on the test and if it is you'll never recognize it in the form in which he presents it. DO NOT TAKE HIM!!!!

1.0
5.0
CHEM32
May 20, 2007

Extremely difficult teacher. Weekly quizzes, mandatory homework, hard tests. Final is cummulative on 16 chapters. He wrote his own book.. I don't recommend this guy.

5.0
4.0
CHEM101B
May 28, 2007

Excellent professor! I think people are just angry b/c it's a hard class, but that's how things are at a 4 year school.I appreciated his class after having classes at least 2X as hard as his class. Just hang in there and study harder than you're used to. If you go on into a science based major, the classes get much much harder, it's a good intro.

1.0
5.0
CHEM33
Jun 5, 2007

I was very disappointed with this teacher. It was a waste of time. He was not helpful, he was rude, and he was not consistent with his teaching style. His tests and homework wwere different from what was learned in lecture. He was not motivating and definately not out there to create a successful learning environment for his students.

1.0
5.0
CHEM33
Jul 29, 2007

"people are [not] just angry b/c it's a hard class" Chem is not easy but the teachers roll is to present material in clear and consistent way and help students in a friendly way if help is needed.Armstrong TOTALLY fails in all areas. One have to WK unusually hard to try to figure out his lectures. If u want a pleasant Chem experi pick other teacher

5.0
1.0
CHEM015
Sep 20, 2007

He's one of the best instructors CCSF has. He maybe touch and strict, but his presentation is crytally clear. Mr. Armstrong is extremely helpful to his students, especially those who are eager to learn. He is NOT mean at all, not by any sense, it's just his professional style. He gave good advice to me when I was accidentally dropped from his class

5.0
4.0
CHEM32
Dec 5, 2007

Loves to teach and teach Chemistry. Wrote the book City College uses. Not a PhD, but is better at explaining the subject than any PhD I have met

1.0
5.0
CHEM32
Jan 15, 2008

i dont lyk this teacher .. he's suxz.. only 2 points to pass his class he cant even give dat...so if u guyz thinkin to take his class think agayn(1000 times)...

1.0
5.0
CHEM32
Jan 21, 2008

No compassion

1.0
5.0
CHEM32
Feb 28, 2008

He is so not a good teacher. Does not explain well teaches the way his awful book is written. It's intro Chem but he expects you to know everything once he is done teaching lecture. Is not open to questions. Awful!!!

5.0
4.0
CHEM32
Apr 3, 2008

Great instructor. If you are willing to put the time in to study and do the homework regularly, you'll succeed.

3.0
5.0
CHEM32
Apr 23, 2008

it def. takes a lot of work to just get by in his class. he considers a C grade as ok..its like a B to him. he understands that its a lot of material to cover. he was very nice. explains well, just make sure do hw,don't miss quizzes/tests,its easy to get discouraged in his class but don't give up and you'll do fine!

3.0
5.0
CHEM32
May 5, 2008

Do NOT get behind! Go to a TUTOR asap. of all the teachers, he moves the fastest.(sometimes up to 4chapters ahead of other chem32 classes) He'll teach, you are expected to learn & go elsewhere to get your ?'s answered ie; tutor. Nice guy/goofy, clear...but tough class, ALOT of material to cover. MUST DO homework to succeed! Good luck! You'll need

2.0
5.0
CHEMLAB
May 18, 2008

Do whatever you can to avoid this man. The rumors about him are true. He's condescending, inconsistent, and simply irritating as a person. He doesn't give you all the information you need before the session starts, then marks you down for not knowing it. He nitpicks the tiniest things. He made it the longest semester of my life.

5.0
5.0
CHEM32
May 27, 2008

The BEST teacher ever! Don't be intimidated. If you want to learn, take him. He truly knows what he is talking about and makes Chemistry interesting. He is a very goofy guy too. No boring moments in class. I have learned so much from him but you really need to stay on top of it. Read his book EVERYDAY, understand it, and do the homework.

1.0
5.0
CHEM32
May 29, 2008

He was not a good teacher. if you are taking an INTRO class then thats what you expect to be doing intro. Well not with this guy he expected you to know everything overnight from reading. Ask questions please do not insult the man like that. His class room is for him to speak not to hear the students. If you don't do well in the first 2 test you ne

1.0
5.0
CHEM1A
Jul 4, 2008

he is rude. gives long lecture about how most student will not pass with distiction wasted a whole class on this. He is punishing student for his lack of success in his chosen field. Has favorites, if you do take him try not to get on his bad side. His office hours are a joke. He will not help you. Take Pauly or Price or go to a different campus.

5.0
5.0
CHEM32
Aug 11, 2008

Take this class from this man if knowledge in this subject is what you want. He da man. Hardest class I ever took, but you know, Chemistry is worth knowing to to get through life. WARNING !!! If you are a sissy or a loser just trying to squeak through life&school this class is not for you. Impossible to cheat on his tests.

2.0
5.0
CHEM32
Oct 15, 2008

all of the negative comments are true. there is no doubt that the man is highly intelligent but what good is that when he is ineffective at teaching the material.

2.0
5.0
CHEM32
Nov 7, 2008

Great person.Don't take the class unless you have an i.q. of 1000.He wrote the book,and His father was a proffesor.He expects too much for the short period of time,and even though You understand what's going on,you must be a genius to even pass.many have dropped out,and they've taken chemistry before.If this is Your first time,You wont pass.

2.0
5.0
C7364
Jan 14, 2009

This man is crazy. he wants you to learn almost the whole book. He wants you to learn things that were not covered in class. He does talk badly about some students. He looks like a mad scientist. Try to avoid his class he is super hard and if you do take his class do ALL the homework and do not miss class b/c you will fall way behind.

5.0
5.0
CHEM32
Jan 24, 2009

I know this is City College, so this guy is not what most people expect in an entry level Chem class. I have a prior university degree so I've taken many classes-- if you are in school to be serious this is one of the best professors you can have. He gives you a dose of the real world-- small mistakes in science are just as wrong as big ones.

5.0
2.0
CHEM101L
Jul 17, 2009

Dr. Armstrong is a very smart person. He knows exactly what he is talking and he explains everything in details. However, he does have favors in student. But if you work hard, he knows it. He is a good lab instructor.

5.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Nov 24, 2009

Armstrong is the clearest teacher I've had at city college. All of the comments I've read about him are untrue or extremely exaggerated by angry students who couldn't get the grade they wanted. I didn't need to read the book and only studied off his lectures and its enough to do the hw and tests. Other students rate him bad due to the subject.

5.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Dec 3, 2009

I was hesitant to add because of previous comments but his lectures are clear, interesting, and sometimes entertaining. He's a nice guy and he grades exams fairly, but they are HARD. In lab, he's very helpful unless its something that you should already know.

2.0
4.0
CHEM101A
Dec 21, 2009

Took him for lab. He is not hard. His guidelines are clear and he explains things in a way that it is easy to understand. HOWEVER, he is very condescending. I was always scared to go up and ask him something because he always seemed to humiliate anyone that asked a question.

5.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Jan 4, 2010

There seems to be several sour-grape student reviews about Prof.Armstrong, and the CHEM101A course.... I thought I'd throw in my opinion.... ...One telling comment by a reviewer was that he/she reviewed the material for 3-5 days before an exam, and only managed to get a C grade.....That's typical of students who have taken many classes each semeste

5.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Jan 4, 2010

CHEM101A is supertough. Stop whining, and get on with it. Prof. Armstrong would have become a vet if he wanted everybody to like him...His job is to get you up to the standard required for moving on to even tougher courses - And he does that extremely well.Give yourself the necessary 25 hours per week study time, and you'll agree. Make the effort!!

5.0
2.0
CHEM101A
Jan 30, 2010

I did not share the same experience as most of the reviewers here have. He is not difficult. I went to class all semester long, but did not own or look at the textbook and got a B overall. He is very helpful; if you ask him a -good- question, he will respond with utmost interest. Taking Su now for 101B and I wish Armstrong taught this instead.

5.0
5.0
CHEM32
Mar 12, 2010

His lectures were greatly organized and I appreciate him for that. However, being that he wrote the textbook, his tests did not reflect what we learned! Weekly quizzes and study guide did not mimic the content of the tests and I swear, don't think grad students would understand either! This class is A LOT of work.

5.0
2.0
CHEM101A
Jun 21, 2010

I took him for lab, and he was really helpful. He explains chemistry really well (sometimes with great analogy) and answers your questions thoroughly. He is always there during office hours. His lab quizzes were not something new, just go over your lab notebook before the quizzes and make sure you understand the concepts, and you will be fine!

2.0
4.0
CHEM101A
Oct 10, 2010

ive heard of this student in the previous post. Although you shouldnt post about a student. It helps to point out that theres alot of codepence going in the lecture and the lab. Its very destructive to your grade and relationships. The student is annoying because he ask other people so many questions

5.0
4.0
CHEM32
Nov 19, 2010

He is extremely clear and understandable. He dumbs chemistry downs for beginners. He wrote the chemistry book that chem 32 uses so he knows what he is teaching. He hates when people are late, so don't be late because he feels distracted.

5.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Apr 1, 2011

The insults to Mr. Armstrong are from students who don't want to do the work of learning chemistry. It isn't his fault that the subject is difficult. He is a great teacher with high expectations.

4.0
1.0
CHEM101A
May 12, 2011

He explains well whenever it is related to calculation. It is kind of confusing when he talks about orbital structure though the topic is hard to explain in lecture. After all he is good and nice.

1.0
5.0
CHEM101A
May 31, 2011

I agree with the no compassion part. This guy literally takes off alot of points in exams. He grades half of it and Torrey grades other half. Whenever I come to his office hours, he is downright condescending. He went to Harvard and expects alot from his students...Just glad that I still got an A but just barely though...

3.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Jun 1, 2011

Chem101a is supposed to be hard class. this is not chem 40 or 32 you are expected to make less mistakes in calculations in your tests. if you slack off you will fail and take the class again.

5.0
4.0
CHEM208A
Jun 15, 2011

I had a lab with him, and it was a piece of cake. Don't get me wrong, he's very strict on attendance and checks the pre-lab each time, and if you don't have it he WILL send you home. But other than his strictness he's very pleasant, helpful and clear on the subject. He's extremely available to answer all your questions even after the semester has e

5.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Jun 20, 2011

Great professor. I actually switched mid-semester to take his 8 a.m. class. He loves the subject and he really loves his students. I worked my ass off for an A and any one else who got an A will tell you the same. TAKE FOR LAB! Phenomenal lab prof. He doesn't put up with dumb/rude people. I always thought his grading was fair.

5.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Jun 21, 2011

Possibly the best teacher on campus.

4.0
2.0
CHEM101A
Nov 22, 2011

This guy is an inspiration for me. He's what a great teacher is. He makes chemistry interesting and easy to learn. However, on his tests, he makes you think a lot more than the "plug into the equation and you get A grade" type of tests. Take him or Glenn for lecture, and Stuart, Hurt, or Wong for lab. Online HW, 75-85% qualifies as an A in class.

4.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Dec 19, 2011

Chem 101A is a difficult class, and this teacher's tests are impossible! I think he does his best, though. He introduces his students to many resources for help, and he's very lively during his lectures. If you're good at chemistry, you'll enjoy this class, but if not...I worked so hard, but I still had a D, so I withdrew and changed my major.

5.0
2.0
CHEM101A
Jan 31, 2012

Clear & Straight-to-the-point and Animated in LECTURE. No Procedure write-ups in LAB needed. Just be able to follow instructions and you'll be fine. Open to all questions--just be precise in asking what you don't understand or why you don't understand something. Fair in grading. Understanding to personal concerns, just LET HIM KNOW. Fun character!

5.0
3.0
CHEM101A
May 19, 2012

Without a doubt one the best professors I have had. Professor Armstrong provides clear, concise, and entertaining lectures. He is understanding, wants students to succeed, and truly motivates students to try their best. But my favorite thing about him is how funny he is. Honestly I was laughing half the time in lecture.

5.0
3.0
CHEM101A
Jul 1, 2012

one of the coolest, professional, and understanding professors at city college. A+++ professor. Thanks for everything, Dr. Armstrong, and best of luck to all of his future students! =))

5.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Oct 24, 2012

Chem 101A is the most difficult of all courses at CCSF. Mr. Armstrong's class is designed to make sure that you are able to go on to any other Chemistry class in the country, even Harvard. It's that tough. That said, Mr. Armstrong is a great instructor. He is very helpful, and if you really want to get some one-on-one time with him, take Chem C.

5.0
3.0
CHEM32
Nov 10, 2012

Chemistry is an overall difficult subject to some, but Armstrong explains concepts really well. He is very knowledgeable in this field; he even wrote the textbook. There will be homework every class session and quizzes every week, but this overall helps you with the class. If you need help, just ask the man.

5.0
4.0
CHEM32
Dec 15, 2012

Thank you Dr. Armstrong!!! Best chemistry professor at CCSF! I have learned so much and greatly appreciated his teaching style and dedication to his students.

5.0
3.0
CHEM32
Dec 27, 2012

Best chem teacher ever!

5.0
3.0
CHEM32
May 23, 2013

Mr. Armstrong is one of the best teachers ever! He is strict about his assignments and grading, but he makes his class lectures really fun. Chemistry is hard in general, so be sure to buy his book and read it and study. He knows how to teach and he's good at it. Highly recommended!

5.0
4.0
CHEM32
Dec 12, 2013

one of my best teacher.His lecture is very clear and concise.If you work hard, you can get good grades.

5.0
3.0
CHEM32
Jan 15, 2014

Attend the first day of class and lab meetings! Keep up with the lectures, which are straight forward. Need textbook; be ready to commit to at least 2hrs of homework that will prepare you for tests and quizzes.

4.0
5.0
CHEM32
Apr 20, 2014

have background knowledge in chemistry; otherwise you may have hard time learning new concepts and unfamiliar structures and vocabulary. test are based on application of concepts from textbook; lectures summarize key points. devil in the details! prof is from harvard, can seem condesending sometimes but his explainations are concise. +2 hr study!

5.0
1.0
CHEM32
Grade: A+
May 22, 2014

The best teacher I ever had. He is a great teacher. Gives you a lot of homework which is fair and makes class a lot more easier for you. He is very organized. I loved his class. It'll be good for you if you'll take his class.

5.0
4.0
CHEM101A
Feb 18, 2015

I remember taking his class a while back during my freshman year at CCSF. I took general chemistry, a 5 hour class (lecture than lab). I remember not doing so well that semester, asked him if I could get a regrade, and he said "no". Mad as a freshman, now, just realized he just wants his students to earn their grades, not suffer. Great person

4.0
3.0
CHEM32
Grade: A-
May 16, 2015

Ultra clear on material and explained things thoroughly (he did write the textbook). I was rarely confused, which is uncommon for chemistry.

5.0
4.0
CHEM101AL
May 20, 2015

Mr. Armstrong is the best chem teacher I've taken. He's very clear about lab procedures and grading schemes, but he won't be condescending if you try to ask questions. He's very approachable and funny too. However, you'll have to do a lot of work. Chem Lab requires both in-class and out-of-class work but it's worth it.

2.0
4.0
101A
May 22, 2015

I don't like this professor. If you ask him questions, he answers "I don't know, you say me". His explanations is not clear for me. However, some people like him. I would not take class with him again.

5.0
4.0
CHEM32
Jun 5, 2015

He seems to care about his student's success, but you got to put in the effort. There is hw every class, quizzes every other week and 3 exams plus a final. This class is very time consuming. Be prepared to read the entire textbook because not everything in hw, quizzes and exams are covered in lecture.

5.0
4.0
CHEMISTRY32
Grade: B-
Nov 25, 2015

I do not like chemistry but Armstrong is great and an outstanding professor. Chem is boring to me but I was only good because of his energy and he knows how to teach. Chem 32 do all the homework and you will pass the quiz and exams. Don't look up HW answers until you've done them. I regret not doing it in the beginning of the semester.

5.0
2.0
CHEM101AL
Dec 23, 2015

It is a lab section! He gives explanations before experiments, so you will know what to do and finish the lab earlier. You just need to follow his requirements in order to get credit for the lab notebook. Remember to show all the calculations and record all results into your notebook to get full credit.

5.0
4.0
CHEM101AL
Grade: A-
Apr 15, 2016

1 mini quiz, 3 lab exams (open lab notebook). Exams are ok to easy as long as your notebook is neat with info you can find easily. Expects you to work for your grade. Extremely helpful if you ask questions, but if you ask something you should already know, he won't go easy on you. He's sounds passionate in chemistry. Recommend for lab.

5.0
4.0
CHEM101A
May 6, 2016

Cheerful, approachable, patient and happy to help. I was anxious about Chem Lab because I have essentially no background in chemistry but Armstrong made me feel comfortable to ask questions which was a huge help. Strict in some respects but a very nice guy. Always wears adorable science teacher outfits. The "book" is a free lab manual they hand out

3.0
4.0
CHEM32
Grade: C
May 9, 2016

He's a fun teacher, but he doesn't cover everything in lectures so you have to read the book. Quiz every week. 3 tests and 1 major final. His tests are hard and you really have to show up to class to do good on the tests/quizzes. I skipped class about 4 times and I really regret it. If you want a good grade go to every class sit at the front.

5.0
3.0
CHEM32
Grade: A-
May 17, 2016

Responsible,parient teacher. If u really want to learn and improve, take his class. You will absolutely feel that your tuition fee is very worthful.

4.0
5.0
CHEM32
May 25, 2016

Hardest class I've ever taken in my life, and I've taken some tough ones. Despite the challenges this class presents, Mr. Armstrong is a really good teacher. Very friendly and encouraging but definitely a tough grader. The class itself seems like it could use some restructuring, as the avg. grade on most tests was around 55%. Prepare to study hard!

3.0
5.0
CHEM32
Grade: F
Jun 14, 2016
Wouldn't take again

The sweetest guy ever! I was sick for a week and he was genuinely concerned! He is genuinely an amazing person. But he doesn't explain chemistry in a way that chem brains can easily understand. I get it he is super smart (he wrote the book) but he just didn't speak my language. His tests are crazy hard and stumped me even though I understood the HW

5.0
4.0
CHEM32
Grade: A
Aug 17, 2016
Would take again

The best professor I've had at CCSF. Clear, organized, approachable and competent, his lectures line up perfectly with the text (which he wrote) which feed directly into the quizzes that line up with the exams. No surprises, good pace, well thought out. There is homework due every day, but if you do it you'll do well. Highly recommended.

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
CHEM32
Grade: D+
Nov 17, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Explains clearly in lectures. But when it comes to quizzes or test, he always tries to pull one on you. You can do all the homework and still fail. I ended up forgetting most of what I learned with a T-TR schedule. He doesn't really explain what format he wants things, you'll lose points, pointlessly. Tedious hard grader . BEWARE

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Caring
5.0
4.0
CHEM32
Grade: A
Apr 4, 2017
Would take again

Chemistry is a difficult subject, but Prof. Armstrong makes it easy to understand. It is up to YOU to study and learn the material! I worked my butt off and got an A in the class but only because I tried my best. He is very enthusiastic and only wants you to do well. Take this class seriously and you will do fine!

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
1.0
4.0
CHEM101A
Aug 10, 2018
Wouldn't take again

The professor is very strict on being on time to the extent of giving out pointless quizzes for you to take to ensure you make it on his class ON TIME. He's pretty nice but.. eh.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
101A
Nov 1, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Vry strict and tough on grading. If ur on time, but failed to submit ontime quiz paper within 10 min he allows u to submit, he still won't give u points. Late penalty for Hw. Teaching is fine, but require self-study and lecture does not cover everything. His hw is hard & questions r tricky too. Chem maybe hard, learning Chem with him is harder!

Tough Grader
2.0
5.0
CHEM32
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 8, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Clear lectures, easy to understand, but when it comes to the quizzes and exams, they are tough. Had to drop with a W

Tough Grader
3.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Dec 17, 2018
Wouldn't take again

If you do poorly on tests, don't take him. His policy is above 50% test average to pass the class even if your overall grade is in the passing range. I would take him for lab though. His labs r easy and don't require much work. Even if class starts at 8:10, the attendance quizzes he gives requires you to come earlier than that.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
CHEM101A
Grade: A
Dec 25, 2018
Would take again

Great teacher but be sure to work for your grade. Grading is based on hw, lab, lec quizzes, exams and on time quizzes. Plenty of extra credit opportunities on the on time quizzes. Hw can be long and challenging at times but prepares you to do well on quizzes and exams. Genuinely cares for his students and willing to help outside of class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
3.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Jan 18, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Be early! class starts at 8:10 but come at 8 or earlier to do the on-time quiz. if you dont turn in hw before class starts you lose points. a pretty enthusiastic guy and god at lecturing but test questions are confusing and you basically have to learn by yourself before coming. switched majors after this class

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
5.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Grade: C+
May 12, 2019
Would take again

Super challenging and meticulous Professor. Still, he's passionate about the subject and generally more than willing to help you out during officers hours. Also cares about his students and has fun with his lectures. The class is very hard though and requires a lot of time devoted outside of class time towards homework and studying

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
5.0
5.0
CHEM101A
Grade: A
Aug 4, 2019
Would take again

Armstrong is among the best professors I've ever had. He won't mention it, but the guy graduated from Harvard with a chem degree and is teaching at CCSF! The class is extremely difficult, but he is very upfront about what is expected. I didn't like the on-time quizzes though, they seems very juvenile for a college course. Take him if you can!

Respected
Test heavy
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
CHEM101A
Grade: B+
Jan 28, 2020
Would take again

Professor Armstrong is easily the best professor I've had in college. He is very passionate and knowledgeable about chemistry. His course is very challenging and he makes you work for a good grade, but you will come out the other end feeling accomplished. Would love to learn more from him!

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
CHEM101A
Grade: A
May 17, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Professor is scattered and all over the place. He does not explain what is expected in the course. Unengaging and a very harsh grader, commonly takes half or 75% off for small mistakes such as being off on a digit several decimal places out. Makes snarky remarks to students who ask for help. I got an A, but still the worst class Ive taken.

Test heavy
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
CHEM101A
May 18, 2020
Would take again

He is very passionate about chemistry. LOTS of homework, he gives out a problem set that is worth 6 points and will give you 4 points if its somewhat complete and will grade random problems for rest of the points. His class is very complicated, he is very picky and hard grader. He is such a nice guy tho. Would recommend if you are a chem major!

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

92%

Textbook Required

69%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 16 grades
Most common grades:
A (5)
A- (3)
B+ (2)
Grade Distribution
A(6)B(1)C(2)D(2)F(1)A-/B+(5)
Based on 17 reported grades
A: 5
A-: 3
B+: 2
A+: 1
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (8)
Tough Grader (6)
Amazing lectures (3)
Gives good feedback (2)
Clear grading criteria (2)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (2)
Respected (2)
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS (2)
Rating Trend

Improving

+0.95 avg change
Dec
Jan
May
Aug
Jan
May
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHEMISTRY

5.0

(1)

CHEM101B

5.0

(1)

CHEM015

5.0

(1)

CHEM101L

5.0

(1)

CHEM208A

5.0

(1)
+11 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CHEM1A

5.0

CHEMISTRY101A

5.0

CHEM33

5.0

C7364

5.0

101A

4.5

Similar Professors