General Chemistry I (Chem 1411) Syllabus and Course Structure Study Guide

General Chemistry I (Chem 1411) Syllabus Overview

Course Description and Scope

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of chemistry, focusing on the properties, structure, and behavior of matter. It covers essential topics such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, quantum theory, periodic properties, molecular geometry, gas laws, intermolecular forces, and solutions. The course combines lectures, laboratory exercises, and computational activities to develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills.

• Atomic Structure: Study of atoms, elements, and their arrangement in the periodic table.

• Chemical Bonding: Exploration of bonding theories, molecular shapes, and the Lewis model.

• Chemical Reactions: Types of reactions, balancing equations, and stoichiometric calculations.

• Thermochemistry: Understanding energy changes and enthalpy in chemical processes.

• Quantum Theory: Introduction to quantum mechanics and electron configurations.

• Gas Laws: Application of kinetic molecular theory and gas laws.

• Intermolecular Forces: Analysis of forces affecting states of matter and phase behavior.

• Solutions: Study of colligative properties and solution characteristics.

Course Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Use dimensional analysis with proper attention to units and significant figures.

• Name and classify inorganic compounds.

• Determine empirical and molecular formulas from experimental data.

• Balance chemical equations and use stoichiometric relationships to calculate reactant and product amounts.

• Identify and predict outcomes of precipitation, neutralization, and oxidation-reduction reactions.

• Understand the first law of thermodynamics and perform thermochemical calculations.

• Apply quantum theory to determine electron configurations and predict atomic properties using periodic trends.

• Use VSEPR theory to determine molecular geometry.

• Apply gas laws and kinetic molecular theory to gas processes.

• Explain intermolecular forces and their effects on states of matter.

• Understand colligative properties and their use in solution chemistry.

Course Structure and Schedule

The course is organized into weekly modules, each focusing on a specific chapter or topic. Laboratory sessions are integral and mandatory, providing hands-on experience with chemical techniques and reinforcing lecture concepts.

• Lecture: Monday, Wednesday, Friday (12:00–12:50 PM)

• Lab: Tuesday (9:30–11:30 AM)

• Hybrid Mode: In-person and online (MS Teams)

Sample Weekly Topics

• Week 1: Introduction, Lab Safety, Matter & Measurement

• Week 2–3: Atoms & Elements

• Week 4–5: Molecules & Compounds

• Week 6: Chemical Reactions & Quantities

• Week 7–8: Solutions & Aqueous Chemistry

• Week 9–10: Gases & Thermochemistry

• Week 11–12: Quantum Theory & Periodic Properties

• Week 13–15: Chemical Bonding, Molecular Shapes

• Week 16: Review & Final Exam

Assessment and Grading

Grades are determined by a combination of laboratory performance, assignments, tests, quizzes, attendance, and participation. The grading system is designed to reflect both knowledge and practical skills.

Assessment	Points	Percentage
Labs (In-person & Virtual)	210	34.9%
Assignments	140	23.3%
Attendance	100	16.6%
Tests & Quizzes	90	15%
Midsemester Test & Final	60	10%
Participation & Bonus	30	5%
Total	600	100%

Letter Grade System

Letter Grade	Percentage	Points	Description
A	100%-90%	4	Excellent
B	89%-80%	3	Above Average
C	79%-70%	2	Average
D	69%-60%	1	Minimally Passing
F	59% and below	0	Failing

Laboratory Requirements and Safety

Laboratory attendance is mandatory. Students must follow safety protocols, wear appropriate attire, and submit lab reports on time. Safety glasses are required, and improper disposal of chemicals results in penalties. Collaboration is encouraged in labs, but each student must submit their own report.

• Lab Partners: Assigned; equipment shared.

• Lab Reports: Due at the end of class.

• Safety: Safety glasses and proper dress required; follow waste disposal rules.

Course Policies and Conduct

Students are expected to maintain respectful conduct, adhere to classroom etiquette, and avoid academic dishonesty. Attendance is strictly monitored, and penalties apply for tardiness or absences. Use of unauthorized materials or devices during tests is prohibited.

• Attendance: Monitored; tardiness and absences affect grades.

• Academic Integrity: Cheating, plagiarism, and dishonesty result in penalties.

• Classroom Etiquette: No cell phones, chatting, or disruptive behavior.

Core Competencies Developed

• Critical and Scientific Reasoning: Logical, quantitative, and creative thinking.

• Communication: Effective verbal, visual, and written skills.

• Ethics and Diversity: Awareness and respect for diverse cultures and ethical systems.

• Practical Skills: Laboratory, experiential, and life-skill development.

Course Schedule and Chapter Coverage

The course schedule aligns with the following chapters, which are directly relevant to general chemistry:

• Ch.1 - Matter, Measurement & Problem Solving

• Ch.2 - Atoms & Elements

• Ch.3 - Molecules and Compounds

• Ch.4 - Chemical Reactions and Chemical Quantities

• Ch.5 - Introduction to Solutions and Aqueous Solutions

• Ch.6 - Gases

• Ch.7 - Thermochemistry

• Ch.8 - The Quantum-Mechanical Model of the Atom

• Ch.9 - Periodic Properties of the Elements

• Ch.10 - Chemical Bonding I: The Lewis Model

• Ch.11 - Chemical Bonding II: Molecular Shapes, VSEPR & MO Theory

Assignments and tests are scheduled to reinforce each chapter, culminating in a comprehensive final exam.

Required Materials and Resources

• Textbook: Chemistry: A Molecular Approach, Nivaldo Tro, 5th Edition, Pearson Publishing

• Calculator: Non-programmable scientific calculator (e.g., TI-30XA)

• Notebook: For lecture and lab notes

University Policies and Accommodations

Students with documented disabilities are encouraged to seek accommodations. Academic regulations and procedures are governed by university policy, and academic dishonesty is handled according to official guidelines.

Visual Reference

The following image represents the official logo of Huston-Tillotson University, reinforcing the institutional context of the course: