CHEM 1020 Introductory Chemistry: Syllabus and Course Structure

Course Overview

This course provides a foundational introduction to chemistry, covering essential principles, laboratory skills, and real-world applications. It is designed for students preparing for advanced chemistry courses and emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory experience.

• Credits: 4 (3 lecture hours, 2 lab hours per week)

• Prerequisites: None

• Corequisites: None

• MnTC Goals: Goal 3 Natural Sciences

• Textbook: Introductory Chemistry by Nivaldo Tro (ISBN 9780138081317)

• Lab Manual: Required for all lab sessions

• Calculator: TI-30XIIS recommended (graphing calculators not allowed)

• Goggles: Required for lab safety

Major Content Areas

The course is structured around key topics that align with the standard introductory chemistry curriculum:

• Classifying Matter: Understanding types of matter and distinguishing between physical and chemical changes.

• Measurement, Units, and Conversions: Using metric and English units for length, volume, mass, and density; performing unit conversions.

• Atomic Structure: Organization of the periodic table, atomic models, and electron configurations.

• Ionic and Covalent Compounds: Naming and writing formulas for compounds.

• Particles, Moles, Grams, and Stoichiometry: Relating grams, moles, and atoms; balancing equations; stoichiometry calculations.

• Molecular Structure: Lewis structures, VSEPR theory, molecular shape, polarity, and intermolecular forces.

• Solution Chemistry: Properties of solutions, acids, and bases.

• Laboratory Skills: Identifying equipment, making measurements, analyzing data, and communicating results.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Describe basic chemical principles and quantitative relationships.

• Apply chemical concepts to real-world situations.

• Perform measurements and calculations using the metric system.

• Demonstrate correct laboratory techniques and safety procedures.

• Interpret laboratory data accurately.

• Communicate laboratory results clearly.

Lecture and Lab Format

Lectures and labs are conducted face-to-face on campus. Students are expected to read lecture slides before class, take notes during lectures, and complete homework assignments after class. Active participation in both lecture and lab is essential for success.

Assessment and Grading

Grades are based on a combination of homework, group quizzes, unit exams, a cumulative final exam, laboratory work, and attendance. The grading structure is as follows:

• Homework: 220 points (lowest two scores dropped)

• Group Quizzes: 80 points

• Unit Exams: 300 points

• Final Exam: 150 points

• Labs: 240 points (lowest two scores dropped)

• Attendance: 10 points

• Total: 1000 points

Letter grades are assigned based on total points:

• 900-1000: A

• 800-899: B

• 700-799: C

• 550-699: D

• 0-549: F

Policies and Procedures

• Academic Honesty: Strict adherence to the Code of Conduct; violations result in a zero and reporting to the Dean.

• Cell Phone Policy: Phones must be silenced and stored during class.

• Computer/Tablet Policy: Devices may be used responsibly for class purposes only.

• AI Policy: Generative AI is not permitted for assignments.

• Lab Safety: Proper attire and goggles required; missing Lab 1 results in automatic failure.

• Attendance: Required for both lecture and lab; missing four or more labs results in failure.

Semester Schedule Overview

The course is divided into 13 chapters and 3 units, covering the following topics:

• The Chemical World

• Measurements and Problem Solving

• Matter and Energy

• Atoms and Elements

• Molecules and Compounds

• Chemical Composition

• Chemical Reactions

• Quantities in Chemical Reactions

• Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table

• Chemical Bonding

• Gases

• Liquids, Solids, and Intermolecular Forces

• Solutions

• Acids and Bases

Labs are scheduled weekly and correspond to lecture topics, emphasizing hands-on learning and safety.

Campus Resources

Students have access to academic support services, tutoring, writing center, advising, counseling, library, computer resources, and health and wellness services. Disability accommodations and Title IX support are available for students in need.

Example Table: Grading Breakdown

Laboratory Safety and Skills

Laboratory sessions focus on safe practices, accurate measurements, and data analysis. Students must dress appropriately and use provided safety equipment. Lab work is graded individually, and completion of at least 10 labs is required for a passing grade.

Additional info:

• Students are encouraged to utilize campus resources for academic, personal, and health support.

• Consistent attendance and participation are critical for success in CHEM 1020.

• Practice and problem-solving are emphasized throughout the course to build analytical skills.