CHE 240: Organic Chemistry I Syllabus and Course Structure Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Organic Chemistry I

This course, CHE 240-0101, introduces students to the fundamental principles of organic chemistry. It covers the structure, properties, nomenclature, and synthesis of organic compounds, as well as the mechanisms of organic reactions and the use of spectroscopic techniques. The course is designed for students in the Division of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics at Rowan College at Burlington County.

• Credits: 3 credits, 3 contact hours per week

• Prerequisites: CHE 117 and CHE 118; co-requisite: CHE 241

• Instructor: Dr. Minnie Park ([e-mail])

• Textbook: Organic Chemistry by L. G. Wade, 9th edition (ISBN 978 013 4183657)

Course Learning Outcomes

Skills and Knowledge Developed

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Draw, differentiate, and describe the different types and structures of organic compounds.

• Illustrate and apply the relationship between the structure of a compound and its properties.

• Restate and compare the different types of mechanisms in organic reactions.

• Design multi-step synthesis in the preparation of organic compounds.

• Explain the theory and applications of IR and MS instrumentation in organic chemistry.

General Educational Outcomes:

• Written and Oral Communication: Communicate meaningfully with a chosen audience while demonstrating critical thought.

• Scientific Knowledge and Reasoning: Demonstrate critical thinking skills in the analysis of scientific data.

Core Course Content

Topics Covered

The course covers the following chapters, which align with standard organic chemistry curriculum:

• Ch.1 - Structure and Bonding

• Ch.2 - Acids and Bases; Functional Groups

• Ch.3 - Structure and Stereochemistry of Alkanes

• Ch.4 - The Study of Chemical Reactions

• Ch.5 - Stereochemistry

• Ch.6 - Alkyl Halides; Nucleophilic Substitution

• Ch.7 - Structure and Synthesis of Alkenes; Elimination

• Ch.8 - Reactions of Alkenes

• Ch.9 - Alkynes

• Ch.10 - Structure and Synthesis of Alcohols

• Ch.11 - Reactions of Alcohols

• Ch.12 - Infrared Spectroscopy and Mass Spectrometry

Additional info: The course schedule includes review sessions and a comprehensive final exam covering chapters 1–12.

Course Schedule

Weekly Topics and Assessments

The course is structured with weekly topics, quizzes, and exams. Below is a summary of the schedule:

Date	Content	Quiz	Exam
1/21	Ch.1
1/28	Ch.2	Quiz 1
2/4	Ch.3	Quiz 2
2/11	Ch.4	Quiz 3
2/18	Ch.4, Ch.12		Exam 1: Ch. 1,2,3
2/25	Ch.12	Quiz 4
3/4	Ch.7		Exam 2: Ch. 4, 12
3/11	Ch.8	Quiz 5
3/18	SPRING BREAK
3/25	Ch.8, Ch.9
4/1	Ch.9	Quiz 6
4/8	Ch.5		Exam 3: Ch. 7, 8, 9
4/15	Ch.6	Quiz 7
4/22	Ch.6
4/29	Review
5/6-5/12	Final Exam		Exam 4: Ch. 5, 6 & 1~12

Assessment and Grading

Grading Criteria

Grades are determined by performance on quizzes and exams. The grading scale is as follows:

Numerical Course %	Course Letter Grade
89.5-100%	A
85.5-89.4%	B+
79.5-85.4%	B
75.5-79.4%	C+
69.5-75.4%	C
59.0-69.4%	D
<59.0%	F

Assessment Methods: 7 quizzes and 4 exams. Missed exams or quizzes result in a score of zero; no extra credit or retakes are available.

Course and College Policies

Attendance, Academic Integrity, and Student Support

• Attendance: Required for all sessions; penalties for excessive unexcused absences.

• Academic Integrity: Cheating or plagiarism results in a grade of zero for the affected assignment or exam.

• Student Support: Services include academic advising, tutoring, counseling, disability accommodations, and more. See RCBC website for details.

Educational Technology and Resources

Technology Use and Student Success Services

RCBC encourages the use of technology in instruction and provides facilities and support for students and faculty. Students are expected to utilize online resources and campus services to enhance their learning experience.

• Academic Advising

• Tutoring

• Library

• Career Services

• Financial Aid

• International Student Support

• Veteran Services

• Transfer Services

Course Structure and Success Tips

Expectations and Recommendations

Students are expected to attend all classes, take thorough notes, and seek help when needed. Success in organic chemistry requires consistent effort, engagement, and utilization of available resources.

• Attend all classes and participate actively.

• Take detailed notes and review them regularly.

• Utilize office hours and tutoring services for additional support.

• Stay organized and adhere to deadlines.

Course Logo

The course is offered by Rowan College at Burlington County, as indicated by the official logo below.