Curriculum & Course of Study

The topics of study and their details for the course are shown here:

WE WILL COVER 12-UNITS OF STUDY IN GENERAL CHEMISTRY

First Semester

• Matter & Measurement

• Atomic Structure

• Periodic Table

• Chemical Bonding

• Chemical Reactions

Second Semester

• Molar Relationships

• Stoichiometry

• Aqueous Chemistry & Solutions

• Gas Laws

• Energy & Thermochemistry

• Acids & Bases (time permitting)

The following skill-based standards will be assessed in the course :

Scientific Investigation: The student will investigate and understand that experiments in which variables are measured, analyzed, and evaluated produce observations and verifiable data. Key concepts include:

a) designated laboratory techniques;

b) safe use of chemicals and equipment;

c) proper response to emergency situations;

d) manipulation of multiple variables, using repeated trials;

e) accurate recording, organization, and analysis of data through repeated trials;

f) mathematical and procedural error analysis;

g) mathematical manipulations including SI units, scientific notation, linear equations, graphing, ratio and proportion, significant digits, and dimensional analysis;

h) use of appropriate technology including computers, graphing calculators, and probeware, for gathering data, communicating results, and using simulations to model concepts; 

i) construction and defense of a scientific viewpoint.

Atomic Structure and Periodic Relationships: The student will investigate and understand that the placement of elements on the periodic table is a function of their atomic structure. The periodic table is a tool used for the investigations of

a) average atomic mass, mass number, and atomic number;

b) isotopes, half lives, and radioactive decay;

c) mass and charge characteristics of subatomic particles;

d) families or groups;

e) periods; principal energy levels and sublevels, orbital diagrams;

f) trends including atomic radii, electronegativity, shielding effect, and ionization energy;

g) electron configurations, valence electrons, and oxidation numbers;

h) chemical and physical properties;

i) historical and quantum models.

Chemical Formulas and Reactions: The student will investigate and understand how conservation of energy and matter is expressed in chemical formulas and balanced equations. Key concepts include:

a) nomenclature;

b) balancing chemical equations;

c) writing chemical formulas;

d) bonding types;

e) reaction types; 

f) reaction rates, kinetics, and equilibrium.

Molar Relationships: The student will investigate and understand that chemical quantities are based on molar relationships. Key concepts include

a) Avogadro’s principle and molar volume;

b) stoichiometric relationships;

c) solution concentrations; 

d) acid/base theory; strong electrolytes, weak electrolytes, and nonelectrolytes; dissociation and ionization; pH and pOH; and the titration process.

Phases of Matter and Kinetic Molecular Theory: The student will investigate and understand that the phases of matter are explained by kinetic theory and forces of attraction between particles. Key concepts include

a) pressure, temperature, and volume;

b) partial pressure and gas laws;

c) vapor pressure;

d) phase changes;

e) molar heats of fusion and vaporization;

f) specific heat capacity; 

g) colligative properties.

Extension of Study: The student will investigate and understand how basic chemical properties relate to organic chemistry and biochemistry. Key concepts include:

a) unique properties of carbon that allow multi-carbon compounds.

b) uses in pharmaceuticals and genetics, environmental sciences, medicine, petrochemicals, plastics, and food.