Principles of Chemistry (CHEM 101) Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course introduces the fundamental principles of chemistry, including measurement, atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, and laboratory techniques. It is designed for students beginning their study of chemistry and covers both theoretical and practical aspects.

Course Description and Goals

General Course Description

The course covers the basic principles of chemistry, such as measurement, atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, and laboratory skills. It emphasizes scientific reasoning, quantitative analysis, and the application of chemical concepts to real-world situations.

• Measurement and Problem Solving: Understanding units, measurement, and performing calculations.

• Matter and Energy: Classification of matter, physical and chemical changes, and energy concepts.

• Atoms and Elements: Atomic structure, periodic table, and chemical properties.

• Molecules and Compounds: Chemical bonding, molecular structure, and nomenclature.

• Chemical Reactions: Types of reactions, balancing equations, and stoichiometry.

• Laboratory Skills: Safe laboratory practices, use of equipment, and experimental techniques.

Student Learning Outcomes

Scientific Reasoning and Application

Students will demonstrate scientific reasoning applied to the natural world, including:

• Understanding methods used to explore natural phenomena, including observation, hypothesis development, measurement, and data analysis.

• Application of scientific data, concepts, and models in physical and laboratory settings.

• Demonstrating proficiency in laboratory skills and safety procedures.

Course Topics and Content Distribution

Major Topics Covered

• Matter & Measurement: Classification of matter, physical and chemical changes, measurement units, and scientific notation.

• Atomic and Molecular Structure: Atomic theory, periodic table, chemical bonding, and molecular geometry.

• Chemical Reactions: Types of reactions, balancing equations, and stoichiometry.

• Gases, Liquids, and Solids: Properties and behavior of different states of matter.

• Solutions: Concentration calculations and properties of solutions.

• Acids and Bases: Properties, calculations, and chemical equilibrium.

• Laboratory Techniques: Use of laboratory equipment, safety procedures, and experimental design.

Content Distribution Table

Course Objectives/Topics	% of Course Content
Matter & Measurement: Distinguish between physical and chemical changes, scientific notation, units, calculations	13%
Atomic and Molecular Structure: Atomic theory, periodic table, bonding, molecular geometry	26%
Chemical Reactions: Types, balancing equations, stoichiometry	6%
Gases, Liquids, Solids: Properties and behavior	11%
Solutions: Concentration calculations, properties	6%
Acids and Bases: Properties, calculations, equilibrium	12%
Laboratory Techniques: Equipment, safety, procedures	26%

Assessment and Grading

Methods of Assessment

• Unit Exams: Multiple choice and short answer (300 pts)

• Quizzes: Online and in-class (90 pts)

• Homework: Assignments (70 pts)

• Lab Practical Exam: Laboratory skills and documentation (80 pts)

• Cumulative Final Exam: Comprehensive assessment (150 pts)

Grading Scale

Grade	Letter	Grade	Letter
94.0-100	A	73.0-76.9	C
90.0-93.9	A-	70.0-72.9	C-
87.0-89.9	B+	67.0-69.9	D+
83.0-86.9	B	63.0-66.9	D
80.0-82.9	B-	60.0-62.9	D-
77.0-79.9	C+	<60.0	F

Laboratory Skills and Safety

Laboratory Techniques

Students will learn to use laboratory equipment such as graduated cylinders, balances, thermometers, and Bunsen burners. Proper safety procedures and techniques are emphasized throughout the course.

• Measurement: Accurate measurement of mass, volume, and temperature.

• Safety: Following safety protocols, proper handling of chemicals, and emergency procedures.

• Documentation: Maintaining lab notebooks and recording experimental data.

Critical Thinking and Social/Global Awareness

Critical Thinking Outcomes

• Formulate meaningful questions to investigate scientific issues.

• Analyze and evaluate relevant sources of information.

• Apply critical thinking to solve problems and make decisions.

Social/Global Awareness Outcomes

• Understand how their lives are shaped by complex world and environmental issues.

• Recognize the impact of chemistry on society, environment, and global challenges.

Course Schedule

Weekly Topics and Laboratory Experiments

Week	Lab Experiment	Lecture Material	Assignments & Quizzes
1	Safety, CAB Certification	Ch. 1: The Chemical World	Quiz #1
2	Density Lab	Ch. 2: Measurement & Problem Solving	HW #1
3	Baggy Chemistry	Ch. 3: Matter & Energy	Quiz #2
4	Specific Heat and Calorimetry	Ch. 4: Atoms & Elements	HW #2
5	Atomic Structure	Ch. 5: Molecules & Compounds	Quiz #3
6	Chemical Reactions	Ch. 6: Chemical Composition	HW #3
7	Lab: Mole Ratio	Ch. 7: Chemical Reactions	Quiz #4
8	Periodic Table	Ch. 9: Electrons in Atoms & Periodic Table	HW #4
9	Bonding	Ch. 10: Chemical Bonding	Quiz #5
10	Gases	Ch. 11: Gases	HW #5
11	Liquids & Solids	Ch. 12: Liquids, Solids, & Intermolecular Forces	Quiz #6
12	Solutions	Ch. 13: Solutions	HW #6
13	Acids & Bases	Ch. 14: Acids & Bases	Quiz #7
14	No Lab (Thanksgiving Break)	Exam #3 on Ch. 13/14	HW #7
15	Lab Practical Exam	Review for Final Exam	HW #8
Final Week	Cumulative Final Exam

Key Formulas and Equations

Measurement and Calculations

• Density: $\text{Density} = \frac{\text{Mass}}{\text{Volume}}$

• Specific Heat: $q = m \cdot c \cdot \Delta T$

• Mole Calculations: $\text{Moles} = \frac{\text{Mass}}{\text{Molar Mass}}$

• Balancing Equations: Conservation of mass and charge in chemical reactions.

Laboratory Safety and Academic Integrity

Safety Procedures

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

• Follow all instructions for handling chemicals and equipment.

• Maintain a clean and organized workspace.

Academic Integrity

• Do not cheat on exams, quizzes, or homework.

• Do not plagiarize or copy lab reports from others.

• Use AI tools only as permitted by the instructor.

Additional Resources and Support

• Tutoring and academic support are available for students needing assistance.

• Students with disabilities or special needs may request appropriate academic adjustments.

• Course feedback is encouraged to improve instruction and learning outcomes.