General Chemistry II Syllabus and Course Structure – Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to General Chemistry II

This course, General Chemistry II (TCHEM 152), is the second in a series of introductory chemistry courses at the University of Washington Tacoma. It is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in fundamental chemical principles, quantitative reasoning, laboratory techniques, and scientific communication. The course is essential for students pursuing further studies in environmental, health, and physical sciences.

• Lecture: MW 3:40 – 5:40 PM

• Laboratory: Weekly sessions, divided by section

• Required Textbook: Chemistry: Atoms First (Burdge, 2017, 4th ed.)

• Online Homework: ALEKS system

Course Learning Objectives

Core Chemistry Skills and Knowledge

Upon completion, students will have developed key skills and mastered fundamental chemistry topics relevant to general chemistry:

• Quantitative Problem-Solving: Interpreting, planning, and expressing solutions with correct significant figures and units.

• Mathematical Operations: Applying mathematical skills in unit conversions and scientific measurement.

• Chemistry Language: Understanding terminology for environmental and biomedical issues.

• Fundamental Topics:

  • Thermochemistry

  • Ideal Gas Law

  • Phases and Phase Changes

  • Colligative Properties

  • Entropy and Free Energy

  • Chemical Kinetics

  • Nuclear Chemistry

• Laboratory Skills: Applying lecture concepts, developing data analysis, and scientific writing skills.

Laboratory Techniques and Procedures

Lab Preparation and Safety

Laboratory work is a critical component of General Chemistry II. Students must be prepared, follow safety protocols, and maintain accurate records in a bound laboratory notebook.

• Lab Notebook: Bound, carbonless copy notebook required for recording data and observations.

• Lab Safety: Approved safety goggles and lab coat required; no open-toed shoes or bare legs.

• Lab Attendance: Mandatory; no make-up labs except for excused absences.

• Lab Reports: Include data, calculations, and conclusions; some require academic paper sections (Abstract, Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion).

Mathematical Operations and Functions

Quantitative Reasoning in Chemistry

Students will use mathematical approaches to analyze experimental data, interpret results, and perform unit conversions. A scientific calculator (non-graphing) is required for exams and laboratory work.

• Significant Figures: Expressing answers with correct precision.

• Unit Conversions: Using dimensional analysis to convert between units.

• Statistical Analysis: Applying basic statistics to examine chemical systems.

Course Structure and Grading

Assessment Breakdown

The course grade is based on laboratory assignments, quizzes, participation, ALEKS homework, midterms, and the final exam. The lowest grades in certain categories are dropped to provide a buffer for emergencies.

• Laboratory Assignments: 25%

• Quizzes: 10% (includes ACS-style questions)

• Participation: 10%

• ALEKS Homework: 10%

• Midterms: 25%

• Final Exam: 20%

Grades are assigned according to the UW Grade Schedule, with a 4.0 scale and letter grade equivalents.

Bonus: Lab Token System

Extension Tokens for Assignments

Each student receives three tokens, which can be used for 24-hour extensions on graded assignments (excluding exams, pre-labs, and final ALEKS assignments). Unused tokens at the end of the quarter earn extra credit points.

• 1 token: 24-hour extension

• 2 tokens: 48-hour extension

• 3 tokens: 72-hour extension

• Tokens are non-transferable and must be requested before the due date.

Course Schedule and Topics

Weekly Topics and Labs

The course covers a range of general chemistry topics, including:

• Thermochemistry (Calorimetry, Hess’s Law, Enthalpy)

• Gases (Kinetic Molecular Theory, Gas Laws, Mixtures)

• Liquids and Solids (Properties, Crystals, Phase Changes)

• Spontaneity and Entropy (Free Energy, Living Systems)

• Chemical Kinetics (Collision Theory, Reaction Rates, Catalysts)

• Nuclear Chemistry

Laboratory activities reinforce lecture concepts and include experiments such as limiting reactants, calorimetry, ideal gas law, molar mass determination, and reaction kinetics.

Additional Academic Support

Resources for Success

Students are encouraged to utilize campus resources for academic, technological, and personal support, including the Teaching and Learning Center, library, student health services, and counseling.

• Drop-in Hours: Available for questions and assignment review.

• Online Support: ALEKS, Canvas, and digital learning resources.

• Academic Honesty: Strict policies against plagiarism and copying work.

Summary Table: Grading Breakdown

Component	Percent of Grade
Laboratory Assignments	25%
Quizzes	10%
Participation	10%
ALEKS Homework	10%
Midterms	25%
Final Exam	20%

Conclusion

General Chemistry II builds on foundational chemistry concepts and emphasizes quantitative reasoning, laboratory skills, and scientific communication. Success in this course requires consistent participation, preparation, and engagement with both lecture and laboratory components.