Chemistry 121: Course Overview and Success Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Chemistry Fundamentals for Healthcare

This course provides a foundational understanding of general, organic, and biochemistry principles, with a focus on applications relevant to nursing and health sciences. Students will explore chemical processes as they relate to the human body and clinical practice.

• Course Credits: 4

• Instructor: Dr. Marc Lamontagne

• Required Textbook: Chemistry: An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry, 14th edition, Timberlake (Pearson)

Course Learning Outcomes

Key Skills and Knowledge Areas

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Perform unit conversion problems – Apply mathematical techniques to convert between units commonly used in chemistry and healthcare.

• Describe chemical processes – Qualitatively and quantitatively explain states of matter, chemical reactions, reaction rates, and solutions.

• Identify ionic and covalent compounds – Distinguish between types of chemical bonding and compound formation.

• Understand acid-base chemistry – Explain the principles of acids, bases, buffers, and chemical equilibrium.

• Recognize organic chemistry fundamentals – Identify functional groups and basic organic molecules.

• Analyze biomolecules – Understand the structure, properties, and reactions of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Required Materials

Textbook, Technology, and Calculator

• Textbook: Chemistry: An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry, 14th edition, Timberlake (Pearson)

• Calculator: A simple nonprogrammable scientific calculator is required. It must be capable of exponents and logarithmic functions. Example: TI-30XIIs.

Example Calculator:

• Computer: Access to a computer with Chrome or Firefox web browser and internet connectivity is necessary for online quizzes and course materials.

Grading Policy

Assessment Components

• Exams: 60% of final grade. Three unit exams and one comprehensive final exam. The final exam can replace a missed or low unit exam grade.

• Quizzes: 15% of final grade. Four online quizzes; lowest quiz score is dropped. No make-up quizzes except for the dropped grade.

• Lab: 25% of final grade. Labs are essential; lowest lab grade is dropped. No make-up labs.

Exam and Quiz Procedures

Rules and Recommendations

• Exams are closed book/notes. Students may bring one 3"x5" handwritten index card for reference.

• Calculators with alphabetic keypads, laptops, tablets, smart devices, and cell phones are prohibited during exams.

• Arrive on time; late arrivals do not receive extra time.

• Fill in all exam pages and ZipGrade forms completely.

• No talking or unauthorized materials during exams.

• Missed exams earn a zero; the final exam can replace a missed or low exam grade.

Lecture Topics

Core Chemistry Concepts

The following topics will be covered, aligning with the chapters listed for the course:

• Measurements and Unit Conversions (Ch.2 Chemistry and Measurements)

• Atoms, ions, ionic compounds (Ch.4 Atoms and Elements, Ch.6 Ionic and Molecular Compounds)

• Covalent bonding, VSEPR, and polarity (Ch.6 Ionic and Molecular Compounds)

• States of Matter, intermolecular forces (Ch.3 Matter and Energy, Ch.8 Gases)

• Chemical reactions (Ch.7 Chemical Quantities and Reactions)

• Solutions (Ch.9 Solutions)

• Acids and Bases, buffers (Ch.10 Acids and Bases and Equilibrium)

• Organic Chemistry fundamentals (Ch.11 Introduction to Organic Chemistry: Hydrocarbons, Ch.12 Alcohols, Thiols, Ethers, Aldehydes, and Ketones)

• Carbohydrates (Ch.13 Carbohydrates)

• Lipids (Ch.15 Lipids)

• Amino acids, Proteins, Enzymes (Ch.16 Amino Acids, Proteins, and Enzymes)

• Nucleic Acids (Ch.17 Nucleic Acids and Protein Synthesis)

Tips for Success

Effective Study Strategies

• Attend all lectures and labs; participation is key to understanding material.

• Complete assigned homework problems for each chapter, even if not graded.

• Apply knowledge to experiments and practice problems regularly.

• Ask questions and seek help from the instructor as needed.

Academic Honesty and Policies

Integrity and Compliance

• Violations of academic honesty (cheating, plagiarism, etc.) are subject to penalties, including grade reduction, probation, or expulsion.

• Students with documented disabilities should register with the Center for Disability Access for accommodations.

• Regularly check RIC email and Blackboard for course communications and updates.

Important Dates

Exam and Quiz Schedule

• Exam #1: 2/18 (Wednesday)

• Exam #2: 3/30 (Monday)

• Exam #3: 4/29 (Wednesday)

• Final Exam: 5/6–5/12 (during final exam period)

• Quiz #1: 1/30–2/2

• Quiz #2: 2/13–2/16

• Quiz #3: 3/20–3/23

• Quiz #4: 4/18–4/21

Technology and Support

Blackboard Ultra and IT Help

• Blackboard Ultra is the primary platform for lectures, labs, assignments, and communication.

• Contact the IT Help Center for technical support: [e-mail] or [phone].

Classroom Etiquette

Maintaining a Positive Learning Environment

• No personal conversations during lectures.

• Cell phones should be off or in silent mode.

• Raise your hand before speaking in class.