General Chemistry I Syllabus and Course Structure – CHEM 124 (Summer 2026)

Course Overview

General Chemistry I – CHEM 124

This course provides a foundational introduction to college-level general chemistry, covering the structure of matter, chemical reactions, atomic theory, and the properties of substances. The syllabus outlines the course objectives, grading policies, schedule, and student responsibilities.

Course Objectives and Competencies

Key Learning Outcomes

• Describe matter and its measurement: Understand the physical and chemical properties of matter, units of measurement, and perform calculations involving measurements.

• Chemical nomenclature: Demonstrate knowledge of naming chemical compounds and ions.

• Atomic theory and periodic table: Explain atomic structure and relate it to the organization and properties of elements in the periodic table.

• Chemical reactions and stoichiometry: Write balanced chemical equations and solve quantitative problems involving reactants and products.

• Aqueous solutions: Describe the nature of solutions and reactions occurring in aqueous environments.

• Thermochemistry: Apply concepts of energy changes in physical and chemical processes.

• Electronic structure: Describe the arrangement of electrons in atoms and relate it to atomic properties.

• Chemical bonding and molecular structure: Understand types of chemical bonds and their influence on molecular shape and properties.

• Properties of solids, liquids, and gases: Relate physical properties to intermolecular forces.

Course Topics (Based on Schedule and Objectives)

Major Chapters Covered

• 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

• Ch. 12: Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces

• Ch. 13: Solids & Modern Materials

Additional info: The course schedule aligns with the standard general chemistry curriculum, covering all foundational topics required for further study in chemistry and related fields.

Course Structure and Schedule

Weekly Progression

• Each week covers 1–2 chapters, with lectures, quizzes, and homework assignments.

• Exams are scheduled after completion of major topic blocks (see below).

• Homework is assigned via Mastering Chemistry and is due regularly.

• Quizzes are frequent and tied to chapter completion.

Exam Schedule

• Exam 1: Chapters 1, 2, 3

• Exam 2: Chapters 4, 5, 7

• Exam 3: Chapters 8, 9, 10

• Exam 4: Chapters 6, 11, 12, 13

• Final Exam: Comprehensive

Grading and Evaluation

Grading Categories and Scale

Category	Percentage of Grade
Unit Exams	60%
Final Exam	20%
Quizzes	10%
Homework	10%

Letter Grade	Percentage Range
A	90–100%
B	80–89%
C	70–79%
D	60–69%
F	59% and below

Policies and Procedures

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is expected and recorded, but not directly graded.

• Students are responsible for all missed content and assignments.

Homework and Quizzes

• Homework is online, with a maximum of 10 attempts per question.

• Late homework is penalized 5% per day, up to 30% maximum.

• No make-up quizzes; exceptions at instructor's discretion.

Exams

• Exams must be taken as scheduled; make-ups only for excused absences with documentation.

• No exam scores are dropped.

• Final exam is required and scheduled for the last day.

Calculator Policy

• Only nonprogrammable scientific calculators allowed (e.g., TI-30X IIS).

• Programmable/graphing calculators and cell phones are not permitted during exams and quizzes.

Academic Integrity

• All work must be original; cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited.

• Violations may result in zero scores, dismissal, or further disciplinary action.

Student Support and Safety

Accessibility and Counseling

• Students with disabilities should contact Access Services for accommodations.

• Counseling resources are available for academic, career, and personal support.

Health and Safety

• Follow all campus wellness and safety guidelines.

• Emergency procedures and reporting information are provided.

Course Materials

Textbook and Resources

• Textbook: Chemistry: A Molecular Approach, Nivaldo Tro, 6th ed., Pearson (2022).

• Mastering Chemistry online platform for homework.

• Canvas for grades and course information.

Important Dates

Drop Deadlines and Refunds

• Last day to drop for refund: June 15

• Last day to drop without "W": June 22

• Last day to withdraw or request pass/fail: July 15

Summary Table: Course Chapters and Topics

Chapter	Main Topic
1	Matter, Measurement & Problem Solving
2	Atoms & Elements
3	Molecules and Compounds
4	Chemical Reactions and Chemical Quantities
5	Introduction to Solutions and Aqueous Solutions
6	Gases
7	Thermochemistry
8	The Quantum-Mechanical Model of the Atom
9	Periodic Properties of the Elements
10	Chemical Bonding I: The Lewis Model
11	Chemical Bonding II: Molecular Shapes, VSEPR & MO Theory
12	Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces
13	Solids & Modern Materials

Additional Info

• The syllabus is aligned with Kansas Core Outcomes for General Chemistry I.

• Lab enrollment is required alongside lecture; withdrawal from one requires withdrawal from both.

• Students are expected to conduct themselves safely and responsibly in all course activities.