CHEM131 - Fundamentals of General Chemistry I

Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to atomic and molecular structure, the properties of matter, and the chemical principles underlying chemical reactions. It is designed for students beginning their study of college-level chemistry and will also introduce basic organic chemistry concepts.

• Instructor: Dr. Lee Friedman

• Teaching Assistant: Sanjana Maheshwari

• Semester: Fall 2025

• Sections: Multiple lecture and discussion sections available

Course Topics

• Atomic and molecular structure

• Chemical bonding

• Properties of matter

• Stoichiometry

• Chemical equations and reactions

• Thermochemistry

• Introduction to organic chemistry (including organic structure, organic reactions, and reaction mechanisms)

Course Structure and Materials

Textbook and Online Homework

• Textbook: Chemistry: A Molecular Approach, 6th Edition by Nivaldo Tro (with Mastering Chemistry access code)

• Online Homework: Access Pearson Mastering Chemistry for assignments

• Course Materials: Access via ELMS (Canvas) for grades, communication, and resources

Grading Breakdown

The grading system is based on homework, pre-test assignments, exams, and a final exam. The following table summarizes the grading components:

Additional info: The university may adjust the weighting of exams versus other assessments as described in the syllabus.

Homework Policy

• Homework is assigned and submitted via Access Pearson system.

• Each homework consists of 16 questions, some with multiple parts.

• Homework is due weekly; late submissions may be allowed with a penalty.

• Adaptive Follow-Up assignments are available for additional practice.

• Assignments are synchronized with ELMS for grade tracking.

Exams

• Three in-class exams and one final exam.

• Exams are closed-book; only non-programmable calculators are allowed.

• Exam dates are specified in the syllabus and on ELMS.

• Make-up exams require documentation and are only granted for valid reasons (e.g., illness, religious observance).

• Exam scores may be adjusted for section errors or missing information (e.g., missing last name or section number).

Grade Scale and Averages

The following table summarizes the approximate grade boundaries based on class averages:

Note: The class average is typically around 60 ± 3-4, which is used as the B/C cutoff line.

Course Policies and Additional Information

• Attendance: Regular attendance is expected for lectures and discussion sections.

• Communication: Use ELMS for announcements, grades, and course materials.

• Academic Integrity: All students are expected to adhere to the university's academic integrity policies.

• Accommodations: Students requiring accommodations should contact the instructor and the university's accessibility office.

• Make-up Work: Make-up exams and assignments are only granted for documented reasons.

Support Resources

• Guided Study Sessions (GSS): Available weekly for additional help.

• Office Hours: Instructor and TA office hours are listed in the syllabus and on ELMS.

• Contact: Email addresses for the instructor, TA, and GSS leaders are provided for questions and support.

Additional info: This syllabus is subject to change; always refer to the latest version on ELMS for updates.