Chemistry 1 Course Description and Syllabus (Fall 2015)

Chemistry 1 (with CCV dual-credit option)

Semester 1, 2015-2016

Dr. Dunn (rdunn@lelandandgray.org)

Room B12

Course Description, Learning Objectives, Syllabus, Expectations, Grading Policy

Prerequisite: Successful completion (or concurrent study) of geometry and algebra 2.

Course Description: Chemistry 1 (H40500) 1.0 L&G credit

This one-semester course is designed to provide a solid first-year college chemistry experience, conceptually and in the laboratory.

Learning will focus on seven essential questions (See Syllabus). The primary source of content delivery will be online tutorials (See Important Note below). Practice, practice, practice is key to success. The instruction will be supplemented with the text Chemistry: The Central Science by Brown, LeMay and Bursten, 11th edition, a widely-used college chemistry text. There will be a quiz at the end of each topic.

At least once every two weeks you will do a laboratory experiment. The hands-on part of the experiment averages two 84-minute class periods for a total of 30 hours of laboratory time. Unless otherwise noted, the source of each lab experiment is either Laboratory Experiments (Chemistry: The Central Science by Brown, LeMay and Bursten, 11th edition) or René McCormick (Adapted from Advanced Chemistry with Vernier & Laboratory Experiments for Advanced Placement Chemistry by Sally Ann Vonderbrink, PhD.)

Experiments are chosen to illustrate and reinforce chapter material, develop problem-solving and critical thinking, and give the broadest possible experience in lab technique and skills. The objectives of laboratory work are

1. Identify and properly use laboratory equipment and handle chemicals in a safe, prudent manner.

2. Using the scientific method, reach conclusions based on observations, measurements and calculations.

3. Appropriately document an experiment including (1) the purpose, (2) materials and methods, (3) qualitative and quantitative data (including properly formatted graphs and charts), (4) analysis, (5) conclusions.

I will collect your lab notebook on a regular basis to check your understanding and give you feedback. You are strongly encouraged to keep your lab notebook as evidence of learning and experience if your college requests it.

IMPORTANT: Students should be able to access http://apchemistrynmsi.wikispaces.com/ daily to prepare for class. Although this course will not go into the depth of AP Chemistry, the principles discussed are valuable. These streaming and downloadable lectures, available 24/7, and accompanying notes were produced by the prodigious and amazing chemist, René McCormick. With Dr. McCormick's generous instructional resources at your disposal, there is no excuse not to learn this material!! Other vodcast sources will also be provided.

Syllabus

Theme: Matter and Energy

• "What is in an atom and how do we know?"
  • Atomic contents and their discoveries
  • Nuclear behavior
  • Electron behavior
  • Atomic forces
• "How and why do atoms behave the way they do?"
  • Properties of elements (macroscopic)
  • Periodic trends
  • Intermolecular forces
  • Intramolecular forces (bonding)
• "How do we describe chemical interactions?"
  • Chemical nomenclature, reactions and equation writing
  • Stoichiometry
• "Are there patterns in how atoms and molecules interact in solution?"
  • Acid-base
  • Oxidation-reduction
  • Precipitation
  • Solution stoichiometry
• "What explains states of matter and their behavior?"
  • Kinetic-molecular theory
  • Gas laws
  • Phase diagrams
• "What affects the rate of a chemical reaction?"
  • Collision theory
  • Roles of reactant, temperature, concentration, catalysts
• "What determines whether a reaction will take place?"
  • Laws of Thermodynamics
  • Enthalpy
  • Entropy
  • Free energy

What are my expectations of you?

It’s simple. Keep “Relationships” and “Shared Responsibility” in mind:

• On time, in your seat

• Mentally ready to learn (“Get your head in the game”)

• Respectful of me, your classmates, and the learning environment

• Safety-minded at all times (separate handout on this)

• Organized and prepared with all materials* and completed homework assignments

• Pro-active = you ask questions and seek help when you need it

• Good attitude

• Team player

*materials=pencil, calculator, planner, lab book, chemistry 3-ring binder

What should you expect of me? I will keep "Relationships", "Shared Responsibility", "Rigor", and "Relevance" in mind:

• Teach science that matters/ Challenge you

• Guide your learning, individually and in groups

• Actively listen to you, be available to help you

• Respect your need for a safe, productive learning environment

• Maintain a current record of your academic progress in Power School

Forewarned is forearmed: You are expected to know the LGUHS Student Handbook definitions and consequences for tardies, absences and less-than-respectful behavior, including breaches of academic integrity. I will follow those measures and guidelines.

Grading Policy

Quizzes and Tests 35%

Lab Reports (formal) 35%

Lab Books 20%

Homework 10%