CHEM 120 – University Chemistry I: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to University Chemistry I

This course is the first semester of the general chemistry sequence for science, mathematics, engineering majors, and pre-professional programs. It covers foundational concepts in chemistry, including matter, measurement, atomic theory, chemical bonding, reactions, thermodynamics, and the physical states of matter. The course is designed to develop abstract thinking, problem-solving skills, and scientific vocabulary, preparing students for advanced studies in chemistry and related fields.

Course Structure and Evaluation

Teaching Methods

Instruction is delivered through PowerPoint-based lectures, video demonstrations, discussions, group activities, assignments, and exams. Students are expected to engage in self-study, read materials ahead of time, and participate actively in class discussions. For every hour of lecture, students should dedicate at least two hours to studying and problem-solving.

Evaluation and Grading

• Exams: Three paper-based exams (100 points each)

• Quizzes: Best ten quizzes (100 points total)

• Homework: Best ten online assignments (Pearson-MC) (100 points total)

• Final Exam: Comprehensive standardized ACS exam (150 points)

The overall course grade is a weighted sum: 60% lecture performance and 40% laboratory performance. Grades are calculated as follows:

• Add class scores, divide by total possible points, multiply by 60 (class score)

• Add lab scores, divide by total possible points, multiply by 40 (lab score)

• Add class and lab scores for overall chemistry score

Percentage	Grade
90.0-100.0%	A
80.0-89.9%	B
70.0-79.9%	C
60.0-69.9%	D
0.0-59.9%	U

Course Topics and Weekly Schedule

Key Chemistry Topics

The course covers the following major topics, aligned with the general chemistry curriculum:

• Matter, Measurement & Scientific Method: Properties of matter, units, measurement reliability

• Atoms & Elements: Atomic theory, structure, periodic law, atomic mass, molar mass

• Molecules & Compounds: Elements, compounds, chemical bonds, nomenclature, formula mass, mole concept

• Chemical Reactions & Quantities: Writing and balancing equations, stoichiometry, limiting reactant, yield

• Solutions & Aqueous Chemistry: Solution concentration, types, solubility, precipitation, acid-base, redox reactions

• Gases: Gas laws, ideal gas law, molar volume, density, partial pressures, gas stoichiometry

• Thermochemistry: Energy, first law, heat, work, enthalpy, enthalpy of reaction

• Quantum Mechanics & Atomic Structure: Nature of light, atomic spectra, Bohr model, quantum mechanics, atomic orbitals

• Periodic Properties: Electron configuration, valence electrons, periodic trends (size, ionization energy, electron affinity)

• Chemical Bonding: Types of bonds, ionic/covalent bonding, electronegativity, bond polarity, resonance, formal charge, exceptions to octet rule, bond energies

• Molecular Geometry & Intermolecular Forces: VSEPR theory, molecular shape, polarity, hybridization, changes between physical states, intermolecular forces, phase diagrams

Sample Weekly Schedule

Week	Topics
Jan. 19	Syllabus, Scientific Approach, Matter & Properties, Measurement
Jan. 26	Chemical Problem Solving, Atomic Theory, Structure, Periodic Table
Feb. 2	Atomic Mass, Molar Mass, Elements & Compounds
Feb. 9	Chemical Bonds, Ionic/Molecular Compounds, Nomenclature, Formula Mass, Mole Concept
Feb. 16	Empirical Formulas, Balancing Equations, Stoichiometry, Limiting Reactant, Yield
Feb. 23	Solution Concentration, Types, Solubility, Precipitation, Molecular/Ionic Equations
Mar. 2	Acid-Base, Gas-Evolution, Redox, Combustion, Alkali Metals/Halogens
Mar. 9	Pressure, Gas Laws, Ideal Gas Law, Molar Volume, Density, Partial Pressures, Gas Stoichiometry
Mar. 23	Energy, Thermodynamics, Enthalpy, Enthalpy of Reaction
Mar. 30	Light, Atomic Spectra, Bohr Model, Quantum Mechanics, Atomic Orbitals
Apr. 6	Electron Configuration, Valence Electrons, Periodic Trends
Apr. 13	Chemical Bonds, Ionic/Covalent Bonding, Electronegativity, Bond Polarity
Apr. 20	Molecular Compounds, Resonance, Formal Charge, Octet Rule Exceptions, Bond Energies
Apr. 27	Molecular Geometry, VSEPR, Shape, Polarity, Hybridization
May 4	Physical States, Intermolecular Forces, Heating Curve, Phase Diagrams, Water Properties

Course Policies and Resources

Attendance and Make-Up Exams

• Attendance is expected and recorded but not used in evaluation.

• Make-up exams are only offered for legitimate reasons with documentation.

• No make-up for missed quizzes unless medical records are provided.

Academic Honesty and Electronic Device Policy

• Students must adhere to university policies on academic honesty, health, and Title IX.

• Electronic devices must be turned off during class unless permitted by the instructor.

• Intentional display of inappropriate content will result in loss of device privileges.

Special Learning Needs and Tutoring

• Reasonable accommodations are provided for documented special learning needs.

• Free peer tutoring is available through Academic Success Programs and the Chemistry Department.

Grade Appeals and Blackboard

• Students have the right to appeal grades as described in the University Catalog.

• Blackboard is used for syllabus, grade postings, lecture notes, and presentations.

Exam Dates and Important Deadlines

Date	Exam
Feb. 19-20	Exam I (Ch. 1-3)
Mar. 12-13	Exam II (Ch. 4-6)
Apr. 16	Exam III (Ch. 7-9)
May 11	Final Exam (comprehensive)

Additional Information

• Concurrent enrollment in CHEM 120L University Chemistry Lab I is required.

• Students must have access to a computer, webcam, stable internet, and software for online classes.

• Practice homework problems are suggested from the textbook to aid learning.

• Completion of pre-lecture and post-lecture assignments on Pearson counts as extra credit.

Additional info: The syllabus aligns closely with the general chemistry curriculum, covering all foundational chapters and including lab techniques, mathematical operations, and scientific method. The schedule and policies provide a comprehensive guide for successful course completion.