BackCHEM&140: General Chemistry Prep with Lab – Syllabus and Course Overview
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Course Overview
Introduction to General Chemistry Prep with Lab
This course, CHEM&140, is designed as a preparatory introduction to general chemistry for students with little or no prior background in the subject. It emphasizes quantitative reasoning, problem-solving techniques, and hands-on laboratory experience. The course prepares students for the CHEM&161 series and covers foundational concepts essential for success in college-level chemistry.
Course Title: General Chemistry Prep w/Lab (CHEM&140)
Credits: 5.0
Format: In-person lectures (~4 hours/week) and laboratory (~2 hours/week)
Prerequisites: Placement into ENGL&101 and MATH93 or MATH97
Course Materials and Technology
Textbook and Homework: Accessed via Pearson’s MyLab & Mastering through Canvas
Required Supplies: Laptop or internet-enabled device, calculator, composition notebook for lab
Technical Support: Available at itsupport.edmonds.edu
Course Description and Learning Objectives
About the Course
Chemistry is a central science that impacts daily life, from biological processes to environmental issues and technological advancements. This course aims to build a strong foundation in chemical principles and laboratory skills.
Course-Level Learning Objectives (CLOs)
Use the metric system, dimensional analysis, and significant figures in problem-solving.
Distinguish among atoms, molecules, ions, and compounds.
Write chemical formulas and systematic names for ionic and covalent compounds.
Describe the subatomic structure of the atom, including isotopic differences.
Convert among units of mass, mole, and number of particles.
Write balanced chemical equations.
Recognize common acids and bases, write neutralization reactions, and calculate pH.
Use stoichiometry to compute amounts of products or reactants in moles or mass.
Use molarity to perform calculations involving aqueous solutions.
Practice safe laboratory techniques and record data professionally.
Analyze scientific data and draw appropriate conclusions.
Assignments and Grading
Assessment Components
Exams: Two midterms and a final exam (in-person, no make-ups)
Quizzes: Timed, online via MyLab & Mastering; lowest score dropped
In-Class Activities: Individual or group work; lowest four scores dropped
Homework: Online assignments via Pearson’s MyLab & Mastering
Lab: Hands-on experiments; lowest lab score dropped; must achieve at least 75% in lab to pass the course
Grading Breakdown
Category | Total % |
|---|---|
Online Homework | 15% |
Quizzes (drop lowest) | 5% |
In Class Activities (drop lowest 4) | 10% |
Lab (drop lowest) | 30% |
Midterms | 20% |
Final Exam | 20% |
Grading Scale
Grade | % | Grade | % |
|---|---|---|---|
4.0 | >95% | 2.4 | 74 - 75% |
3.8 | 91 - 94% | 2.2 | 72 - 73% |
3.6 | 88 - 90% | 2.0 | 70 - 71% |
3.4 | 85 - 87% | 1.8 | 68 - 69% |
3.2 | 83 - 84% | 1.6 | 66 - 67% |
3.0 | 80 - 82% | 1.4 | 63 - 65% |
2.8 | 78 - 79% | 1.2 | 61 - 62% |
2.6 | 76 - 77% | 1.0 | 60% |
0.0 | <60% | Decimal grades between 0.0 and 1.0 are not given | |
Laboratory Policies
Attendance is mandatory; hands-on participation is required.
Lab safety and instructions are provided at the start of each session; late arrivals may not participate.
Preparation includes reading the lab manual and organizing data tables in your notebook before lab.
Lab reports must be based on your own data; using a partner’s data is not permitted.
Academic Integrity and Conduct
Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited and will result in a zero for the assignment and possible further disciplinary action.
Limited use of generative AI tools is allowed only for concept clarification, not for graded assignments.
Students are responsible for their own enrollment status and must withdraw if necessary.
Student Support and Resources
STEM Study Room: Free tutoring and academic support for STEM courses.
RiSE Program: Peer mentoring and support for STEM and Pre-Nursing students.
MESA Program: Support for underrepresented students in STEM, including scholarships, internships, and specialized tutoring.
Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD): Accommodations available; students must coordinate with SSD and instructors.
Emergency Preparedness: Triton Alert System for campus notifications.
Classroom Community and Inclusion
Regular attendance and active participation are expected.
Classroom is a respectful, inclusive environment valuing diversity and open communication.
Suggestions for improving the course are welcome.
Important Policies and Links
Academic Calendar: https://www.edmonds.edu/calendar/academic.html
Student Resources: https://students.edmonds.edu/
SSD Services: https://students.edmonds.edu/ssd/
Title IX and Gender Discrimination: https://www.edmonds.edu/titleix/what-is-titleix/definitions/gender-discrimination.html
Summary
This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the CHEM&140 course, including its objectives, structure, grading, laboratory requirements, academic integrity policies, and available student resources. The course is designed to build foundational chemistry knowledge and laboratory skills, preparing students for further study in the sciences.
