General Chemistry Syllabus and Course Structure Overview

Course Overview

Introductory Chemistry for Non-Science Majors

This syllabus outlines the structure, expectations, and learning objectives for CHEM 1001: Introductory Chemistry for Non-Science Majors at Louisiana State University Alexandria. The course covers fundamental topics in general, inorganic, organic, and biochemistry, designed to provide students with a broad understanding of chemistry concepts relevant to everyday life and future careers.

Course Description and Prerequisites

Scope and Purpose

• Course Description: Fundamentals of chemistry, including general, inorganic, organic, and biochemistry topics.

• Prerequisite: ACT math score of 19 or higher, or a 'C' or better in Math 1021.

• Target Audience: Non-science majors seeking a foundational understanding of chemistry.

Course Outcomes

Learning Goals

• Describe the concept of matter from both macroscopic and microscopic perspectives.

• Develop a framework for solving chemistry problems using dimensional analysis.

• Differentiate between chemical and physical changes.

• Balance chemical reactions.

• Manipulate conversion factors in problem solving.

Module Topics and Learning Objectives

Module Breakdown

• Module 1: Chemistry’s Basics (Measurement, Matter, Problem Solving)

  • Identify types and forms of matter.

  • Classify physical and chemical changes.

  • Apply dimensional analysis.

• Module 2: Atoms and Radioactivity

  • Recognize patterns of the periodic table.

  • Describe atomic structure and isotopes.

  • Differentiate types of radioactive decay.

  • Define half-life and calculate radioactive isotope decay.

• Module 3: Introduction to Inorganic and Organic Compounds

  • Differentiate between covalent and ionic compounds.

  • Use Lewis dot structures.

  • Calculate chemical formulas and molecular mass.

  • Recognize functional groups in organic compounds.

• Module 4: Chemical Reactions

  • Identify and classify chemical reactions.

  • Balance chemical equations.

  • Distinguish between endothermic and exothermic reactions.

  • Predict products of chemical reactions.

• Module 5: Gas Laws, Solubility, and Solution Chemistry

  • Apply the gas laws (Boyle’s, Charles’s, Ideal Gas Law).

  • Predict boiling points and vapor pressure based on intermolecular forces.

  • Calculate solution concentrations and properties.

• Module 6: Acids, Bases, and Ions in the Body

  • Identify acids and bases.

  • Apply the products of a neutralization reaction.

  • Calculate pH and relate to biological systems.

  • Predict the relative strength of weak acids and bases.

Materials and Resources

Required Textbook and Tools

• Textbook: "General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry: Concise, Practical, Integrated" by Frost & Deal, 4th edition.

• Online Resource: Modified Mastering Chemistry (Pearson).

• Calculator: Scientific calculator (graphing or non-graphing) required for algebraic operations.

Technical Information

Online Platform and Hardware

• Course delivered via Moodle (compatible with Windows, Linux, iOS, Android).

• Recommended browsers: Firefox, Safari, Google Chrome.

• Hardware: Computer with internet access, webcam, speakers/headset.

Grading Scale and Course Work

Assessment Components

• Homework: 50%

• Midterm: 20%

• Final Exam: 25%

• AAA (Attendance/Engagement): 5%

Grade	Score (%)
A	90-100
B	80-89
C	70-79
D	60-69
F	0-59

Homework Assignments

Submission and Grading

• Homework for each chapter is completed on Pearson MasteringChemistry.

• Students may attempt each homework up to 5 times; the best score is recorded.

• Homework deadlines are set in Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Midterm and Final Exam Details

Exam Structure and Proctoring

• Exams are proctored online via MasteringChemistry and MonitorEDU.

• Midterm covers Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; Final Exam covers all chapters, with emphasis on modules 7 and 8.

• Each exam is 2 hours long, with one attempt allowed.

Course Policies

Expectations and Integrity

• Active participation and engagement are required for success.

• Academic integrity is strictly enforced; plagiarism and unauthorized assistance are prohibited.

• Students must check their LSUA email and Moodle course regularly for updates.

Additional Policies

Privacy, Accessibility, and Online Etiquette

• Student privacy rights are protected under FERPA.

• Accessibility accommodations are available for students with disabilities.

• Proper online etiquette is expected in all communications.