CHM 104: Introduction to Chemistry I – Syllabus and Course Overview

Course Overview

This syllabus outlines the structure, requirements, and policies for CHM 104: Introduction to Chemistry I at Gadsden State Community College. The course is designed as a general chemistry survey for non-science majors, covering foundational topics in chemistry and laboratory techniques.

Course Information

• Course Code: CHM 104, Section 02 (CRN: 20686)

• Credits: 4 (3 theory hours, 1 lab hour)

• Delivery Method: Online (ONL)

• Prerequisite: Minimum of MTH 098 or equivalent placement score

• Required Materials: External web camera, lab kit

Instructor and Contact Information

• Instructor: Dr. James Easton, Ph.D.

• Email: [e-mail]

• Office: SB-205 (by appointment)

• Division Chair: Dr. Brian Geislinger ([e-mail])

• Instructional Dean: Dr. Derrick Griffey ([e-mail])

Course Description

This course provides a broad introduction to general chemistry, emphasizing key facts, principles, and theories. Topics include mathematical operations, matter and energy, atomic structure, chemical symbols and formulas, nomenclature, the periodic table, bonding, chemical equations and reactions, stoichiometry, gas laws, phases of matter, solutions, and acids and bases. Laboratory work is required.

Course Objectives

• Demonstrate proper laboratory techniques and safety.

• Apply scientific reasoning to interpret experimental data.

• Describe fundamental concepts of atomic structure, periodicity, bonding, states of matter, solutions, acids and bases, and nuclear chemistry.

• Explain the behavior of gases using kinetic molecular theory.

• Write and interpret chemical formulas and names.

• Describe basic principles of thermochemistry.

• Solve problems related to measurement, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, gases, solutions, and acids and bases using dimensional analysis and equations.

Required Textbook and Materials

• Textbook: Chemistry: An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry, 14th Edition, Karen C. Timberlake (ISBN: 9780138176839)

• Lab Kit: Science Interactive, Kit # SP-3005-CK-02 (not covered by First Day Complete)

• Calculator: Scientific calculator with EE and LOG functions (TI-30Xa recommended)

• Web Camera: External camera required for remote proctoring

Course Schedule and Topics

The course follows a structured weekly schedule, covering the following chapters and laboratory activities:

Week	Topic	Lab Activity
1	Chapter 1 – Chemistry In Our Lives	Acquire lab kit
2	Chapter 2 – Chemistry & Measurement	Getting Started, Lab Safety, Lab Kit Inventory
3	Chapter 3 – Matter & Energy	Techniques & Measurements
4	Chapter 4 – Atoms & Elements
5	Exam 1 (Chapters 2, 3, 4)
6	Chapter 5 – Nuclear Chemistry
7	Chapter 6 – Ionic & Molecular Compounds	Molecular Modeling & Lewis Structures, Naming Compounds
8	Exam 2 (Chapters 5, 6)
9	Chapter 7 – Chemical Quantities & Reactions	The Mole Concept, Stoichiometry of a Precipitation Reaction
10	Chapter 8 – Gases	Properties of Gases
11	Spring Break
12	Exam 3 (Chapters 7, 8)
13	Chapter 9 – Solutions
14	Chapter 10 – Acids & Bases & Equilibrium	pH of Common Materials, Titration of Acetic Acid in Vinegar
16	Exam 4 (Chapters 9, 10)

Assessment and Grading

• Exams: 37.5%

• Mastering Homework: 25%

• Laboratory: 37.5%

Letter grades are assigned as follows:

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

Policies and Student Support

• Attendance: Required for academic success; online attendance may be verified through assignments.

• Academic Honesty: Cheating, plagiarism, and misrepresentation are strictly prohibited and may result in course failure.

• AI Usage: Generative AI tools are not permitted unless explicitly authorized by the instructor.

• Withdrawal: Students may withdraw according to college policy; withdrawal does not impact GPA but may affect financial aid.

• Student Support: Tutoring, disability services, library resources, and technology support are available.

Additional Information

• Students are responsible for acquiring required materials and adhering to all deadlines.

• Canvas is the official learning management system for course content and communication.

• For grievances, safety, or policy questions, refer to the Student Handbook & Catalog.