Elementary Chemistry (CHEM 1110) Syllabus and Course Overview

Course Overview

This document provides the syllabus and essential information for the course Elementary Chemistry (CHEM 1110). The course covers foundational topics in General, Organic, and Biological (GOB) Chemistry, suitable for college-level students. The syllabus outlines instructor contact details, required materials, course structure, grading, and a detailed assignment schedule aligned with standard GOB Chemistry topics.

Instructor and Course Information

• Instructor: Mary Alvarez

• Contact: Email and phone provided; office hours available via online scheduling

• Class Times: Mondays, Wednesdays, 11:00–11:50 AM

• Location: TB1 327, Redwood Campus

Required Materials

• Textbook: Fundamentals of General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry (McMurry et al.)

• Calculator: Scientific or graphing calculator recommended

• Molecular Modeling Kit: Optional, for hands-on molecular structure practice

Course Description

This course introduces general inorganic and organic chemistry, focusing on the structure and function of hydrocarbons and functionalized molecules. It is designed for students in health sciences and other non-chemistry majors. The course includes both lecture and interactive components.

Course Structure and Grading

• Participation: 5% (discussion posts, engagement)

• Homework: 15% (weekly assignments, molecular modeling, online modules)

• Practice Exams: 15% (5 practice exams to prepare for real exams)

• Exams: 65% (5 unit exams + 1 final exam)

Grading Scale:

• 90–100%: A

• 87–89%: A-

• 83–86%: B+

• 80–82%: B

• 77–79%: B-

• 73–76%: C+

• 70–72%: C

• 67–69%: C-

• 64–66%: D+

• 60–63%: D

• <60%: E

Major Topics and Assignment Schedule

The course follows a logical progression through the foundational topics of GOB Chemistry. Below is a summary of the main topics, which align with standard GOB Chemistry chapters:

• Ch. 1: Matter and Measurements

• Ch. 2: Atoms and the Periodic Table

• Ch. 3: Ionic Compounds

• Ch. 4: Molecular Compounds

• Ch. 5: Classification & Balancing of Chemical Reactions

• Ch. 6: Chemical Reactions: Mole and Mass Relationships

• Ch. 7: Chemical Reactions: Energy, Rate and Equilibrium

• Ch. 8: Gases, Liquids and Solids

• Ch. 9: Solutions

• Ch. 10: Acids and Bases

• Ch. 11: Nuclear Chemistry

Additional topics include lab techniques, mathematical operations, and introductory organic and biological chemistry as time allows.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of basic chemical concepts (matter, energy, atomic structure, chemical reactions)

• Communicate chemistry concepts effectively (IUPAC nomenclature, molecular models)

• Demonstrate quantitative literacy (dimensional analysis, property calculations, interpreting scientific data)

• Think critically about chemistry (analyzing results, evaluating information, understanding chemical and physical properties)

Keys for Success

• Engage with lectures, worksheets, and online resources

• Participate in discussions and complete assignments on time

• Utilize practice exams and homework to reinforce learning

• Seek help from the instructor, tutoring center, or online resources as needed

Support and Resources

• Lecture notes: Provided for each topic

• Mastering Chemistry: Online guided study modules

• STEM Learning Center: Tutoring and workshops

• Online tutoring: Available 24/7 via Tutor.com

Assignment Schedule (Sample)

Due Date	Assignment Name	Type	Points
1/12/24	Intro to Chemistry, Matter & Measurements	Quiz	75
1/19/24	Ch. 2: Atoms and the Periodic Table	Assignment	75
1/26/24	Ch. 3: Ionic Compounds	Assignment	75
2/2/24	Ch. 4: Covalent Compounds	Assignment	75
2/9/24	Ch. 5: Classification & Balancing Chemical Reactions	Assignment	75
2/16/24	Ch. 6: The Mole	Assignment	75
2/23/24	Ch. 7: Energy, Rate, and Equilibrium	Assignment	75
3/1/24	Ch. 8: Gases	Assignment	75
3/8/24	Ch. 9: Solutions and Colligative Properties	Assignment	75
3/15/24	Ch. 10: Acids, Titrations, and Buffers	Assignment	75
4/12/24	Ch. 11: Introduction to Nuclear Chemistry	Assignment	75

Course Policies and Support

• Attendance and engagement are required, especially in the first three weeks

• Assignments and exams must be completed by posted deadlines

• Academic support is available through tutoring, discussion forums, and instructor office hours

• Institutional policies on academic integrity and student rights apply