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CHEM& 139 General Chemistry Prep (Spring 2010)
Instructor:
Dr. Erin M. Gibbons
egibbons@cascadia.edu (email is the best way to reach me)
(425) 352-8631
Office: Room 361
Course Website: http://sites.google.com/site/cascadia139/
Office Hours: T, Th 12:15 am - 1 pm (or, by appointment on T/Th)
Meeting Places/Times: Room CC2-380
Section 02 T,Th 1:15 pm - 3:20 pm
Section 01 T,Th 3:30 pm - 5:35 pm
Description: The overall outcome of this course is success in General Chemistry. This course is designed
for students who need to enroll in the General Chemistry sequence who have little or no prior
experience in chemistry. Students will learn the symbolism and language of chemistry,
quantitative relationships that are practiced in general chemistry, and techniques of
quantitative and collaborative problem solving. Satisfies the chemistry prerequisite for
CHEM&161. Although laboratory concepts are introduced, this course does not satisfy a
laboratory science requirement. NOTE: This course is intended for students planning to enroll
in the CHEM&161, CHEM&162, CHEM& 163 sequence. Prerequisite(s): Completion of MATH
095 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.
Prerequisite: MATH 095 (formerly MATH 099) with a grade of 2.0 or better. (NOTE that completion of
MATH& 141 or MATH& 147 with a grade of 2.0 or higher is required for CHEM& 161.)
Text:
Content:
H. Stephen Stoker, "Introduction to Chemical Principles", 9th edition.
Chapters 2 through 5, 8, 9, 10, and portions of Ch. 6, 11 and 13 of Stoker. (See schedule, below.)
Course Content, Topics and Themes:
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Matter, atoms, molecules, ions
•
Elements, compounds, and nomenclature
•
Development and use of the periodic table
•
Measurement and uncertainty
•
Proportional functions and conversion factors
•
Linear functions and graphical analysis
•
Ionic and covalent bonding
•
The shapes and polarity of molecules
•
The mole and Avogadro’s number
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Reactions
•
Stoichiometry
•
Solutions and dilution
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Course Outcomes:
Learn Actively - Learning is a personal, interactive process that results in greater expertise and a more
comprehensive understanding of the world.
 Learn and use the language of chemistry, including symbols, formulas and equations
 Derive and use fundamental information from the periodic table
 Describe the organization of atoms into molecules and factors determining this organization
 Use quantitative measurements, their units, and their results to solve problems
 Gain proficiency in using scientific notation, significant figures, and conversion factors
 Use the connection between numbers and masses of chemical substances to solve problems
 Learn the relationships among electrons, bonding, molecular geometry, and polarity
 Use the properties and concentrations of solutions to solve problems of chemical reactions.
 Deepen conceptual understanding of chemical concepts through group discussion and problem solving
Think Critically, Creatively and Reflectively -- Reason and imagination are fundamental to problem solving and
critical examination of ideas.
 Develop strategies to approach and solve problems using dimensional analysis
 Use co-workers approaches to problem solving to enhance your own skills
 Use measurement-based uncertainties to evaluate meaningfulness of answers
 Construct and interpret scientific graphs with functions and with data
Communicate with Clarity and Originality - The ability to exchange ideas and information is essential to personal
growth, productive work, and societal vitality.
 Communicate chemical concepts through peer interaction
 Use the language of Chemistry to communicate chemical concepts with other scientifically trained
individuals
 Use graphs for communication of scientific information
 Communicate a problem-solving strategy to an audience of peers
Interact in Diverse and Complex Environments - Successful negotiation through our increasingly complex,
interdependent and global society requires knowledge and awareness of self and others, as well as enhanced
interaction skills.
 Work with peers to solve problems drawing on multiple approaches
 Gain confidence in use and interpretation of data
 Understand the ethical boundaries between collaboration and scientific integrity
 In all group work, listen and contribute with respect and honesty
Assignments:
Prepared Problems:
Each prepared problems assignment consists of problems and questions from the chapters of the textbook covered
in the corresponding unit. Each prepared problems set is worth 2 points. Homework groups will spend the first 10
minutes of class first assessing each other’s work for completeness (more information will be given on the prepared
problems gradesheet), then discussing their answers and approaches to the problems. Prepared problems will not be
accepted for credit after the first 5 minutes of class on the day they are due. If you expect to miss class, you may hand in
the prepared problems early.
Suggested Problems:
Suggested problems are for extra practice and will not be graded. Answers to the odd problems are in the back of
the textbook. Full solutions to the odd problems are available in the student solutions manual. It is recommended that
you do all the skillbuilder problems as you read the chapters. The answers to all of the skillbuilders are in the back of the
textbook. Be sure to seek help as soon as you need it!
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Graded Homeworks:
Each homework assignment consists of problems and questions from the chapters of the textbook covered in the
corresponding unit. Each homework assignment is worth 10 points. The due dates are on the daily schedule on the last
page of the syllabus. These are individual assignments (not collaborative). All work must be original (in your own
words, or numbers, as the case may be). You must show your work to get credit. Homework is due at the beginning of
class on the due date. Papers handed in later in class will be considered one day late. Late papers will be accepted with a
10% deduction per class period up until the assignment is handed back to the class (usually the next class period).
Homework will not be accepted after that time. Please staple all pages, and don’t forget to put your name on the front. (I
recommend that you work the graded homework problems as you complete the corresponding sections, rather than
waiting to do them all at once.)
Study technique recommendations:
 Check the outcomes on the Unit Syllabus for the class ahead of time.
 Skim (or read) the text sections before class, paying close attention to bold-face vocabulary
terms and figures. This should take no more than 20 minutes.
 Do the assigned Prepared Problems.
 Read the assigned text sections as soon as possible after class.
 Compare the outcomes to your class notes, taking care to review material not covered in class.
 Learn actively by explaining concepts and relationships to someone else.
 Learn collaboratively by solving Suggested Problems and Prepared Problems in a study group.
Exams:
Four hour exams during classes. The examinations are cumulative to the extent that concepts
and skills introduced in earlier units are applied in later units. There is no comprehensive final
exam.
Exams can be made up only for unusual circumstances and only if I am notified in advance
Labs:
While CHEM& 139 is not a laboratory course, one of its specific purposes is to prepare you for
CHEM& 161 lab. There will be two lab sessions during normal class hours. Copies of
experiments will be distributed in class; there is no preprinted manual. Laboratory dates and
report due dates will be printed in each unit syllabus. Labs can be made up only by prior
arrangement. A safety procedure sheet must be read and signed; safety goggles will be
provided for you and must be worn at all times in the laboratory.
Grading:
Hour Exams
Group Sheets
Lab exercises
Prepared problems
Graded Homework
Presentation
Total:
4 x 50 pts.
5 x 10 pts.
2 x 20 pts.
19 x 2 pts.
4 x 10 pts.
200 pts.
50 pts.
40 pts.
38 pts.
40 pts.
42 pts.
410 pts.
Your percentage of the total points will be converted to grades approximately as follows:
%
≥ 95
90-94
85-89
80-84
Numerical Grade
4.0
3.5-3.9
3.2-3.4
3.0-3.1
%
75-79
70-74
60-69
50-59
≤ 49
Numerical Grade
2.7-2.9
2.3-2.6
1.3-2.2
0.7-1.2
0.0
Current Credit and Transfer Issues:
CHEM& 139 satisfies five Cascadia Physical Science credits, but does not qualify as a laboratory
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science.
It satisfies the Chemistry prerequisite for CHEM& 161.
As of May, 2005, the University of Washington accepts CHEM& 139 credits. Three credits transfer as
UW CHEM 110 and two credits transfer as “CHEM 1xx” Natural World credits.
Class-time focus and student responsibility: This course is heavy with content, and is elected by students
with diverse future pathways. Our class-time will be focused on those areas that are best learned
through collaborative activities, or are those where instructor support is most needed. For us to be
successful, there is a need for you to be responsible for your own learning of content not covered in
class, and to use the study skills of an independent learner. The “Unit Syllabus” is one of the ways to
support you in your efforts.
Cascadia’s expectations for classroom behavior conform to the Washington Administrative Code
(WAC). These may be found in the Student Handbook or at
http://www.cascadia.ctc.edu/EnrollmentServices/studentrights.asp#conduct
Cascadia Values and Perspectives:
Academic Integrity: The College regards acts of academic dishonesty, including such activities as
plagiarism, cheating and/or/violations of integrity in information technology, as very serious offenses.
In the event that cheating, plagiarism or other forms of academic dishonesty are discovered, each
incident will be handled as deemed appropriate. Care will be taken that students' rights are not
violated and that disciplinary procedures are instituted only in cases where documentation or other
evidence of the offense(s) exists. A description of all such incidents shall be forwarded to the Vice
President for Student Success, where a file of such occurrences will be maintained. The vice president
may institute action against a student according to the college's disciplinary policies and procedures as
described in the Student Handbook.
Specific to this course:
The following are situations where I expect you to get help, share ideas, and work cooperatively:
1. Group sheets and worksheets.
2. Guidance and ideas on Prepared Problems and Graded Homework (but please see below).
3. Preparing for lab (except what you actually write on your pre-laboratory assignment).
4. All aspects of in-laboratory activities.
5. Working-up laboratory data for your report.
The following are examples of situations where I expect that your work will be entirely your own:
1. All aspects of examinations.
2. All written aspects of Prepared Problems and Graded Homework assignments.
3. All written aspects of pre-laboratory assignments.
4. All written aspects of laboratory reports.
The key distinction is when you write something down, it represents your own communication of your
understanding. It is inappropriate to copy anyone’s work or provide your answers to others, except where
you are sharing data.
Acceptable Use Policy on Information Technology In general, the same ethical conduct that applies to the use of all
college resources and facilities applies to the use of Cascadia's systems and technology. These systems may
only be used for authorized purposes, using only legal versions of copyrighted software, and with
consideration and respect for the conservations of resources and the rights of other users. For additional
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information, go to the Open Learning Center for a complete copy of the Information Technology Acceptable
Use Policy and Procedures.
Disability Support Services: Cascadia provides services to help students with disabilities successfully adapt to
college life. Students who meet specific criteria may also qualify for academic accommodations. For
information, or a referral, please contact Enrollment Services, Room 103, 425-352-8860 and ask for the
Disability Support Facilitator.
Diversity : Cascadia Community College affirms a commitment to freedom from discrimination for all
members of the College community. Celebration of diversity and cultural differences is a hallmark of a true
learning community. Pluralism, diversity and equity are therefore at the core of Cascadia's mission. Individual
difference is affirmed and celebrated in our community of learning.
Emergency Procedures:
Emergency procedures are posted in each classroom. To reach campus security
personnel, dial 425-352-5222. Fire and police may be reached by dialing 9-911.
Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): Cascadia Community College complies with the Family
Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 concerning the information that becomes a part of a
student's permanent educational record and governing the condition of its disclosure. Under FERPA, students
are protected against improper disclosure of their records.
Inclement Weather: In the event of inclement weather affecting morning classes, there will be notification on
the local media by 5:30 a.m. You may also call the main campus number: 425-352-8000 to hear a message that
will be updated with the latest Cascadia closure information. You may also go online to
www.schoolreport.org and click on Cascadia Community College to get the latest report. Should the weather
deteriorate during the day, you may check online, listen to the main campus message, check email or the
media to hear news about closures or class schedule changes.
Additional Academic Standards and support services concerning Learning Assistance Options, Student
Rights and Responsibilities can be found at the college site map, http://www.cascadia.ctc.edu/sitemap.asp
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Daily Schedule for CHEM& 139 Spring 2010 (subject to change as needed):
Tuesday
3/30
Course Introduction
4.1 - 4.9
4/6
Thursday
4/1
2.1 - 2.8
4/8
3.1 – 3.9
4/13
Lab Exercise 1
Homework 1 due, start of class
3.10, 3.11
4/15
Exam 1
Group Sheet 1
4/20
4/22
5.1 – 5.9
6.1, 6.2, 6.11, 6.12, 7.4 – 7.9, 8.1, 8.2
4/27
8.3 – 8.5, 8.7
Group Sheet 2
Groups Chosen
4/29
5/6
5/4
9.1 – 9.12
Topics Due
7.10-7.20
5/11
Homework 3 due, start of class
Group Sheet 3
5/18
5/13
Exam 3
5/20
10.1 – 10.9
Rough Outline Due
5/25
13.11
Group Sheet 4
6/1
Homework 2 due, start of class
Exam 2
Homework 4 due, start of class
Exam 4
6/8
10.10, 13.1 – 13.3, 13.5 – 13.8, 13.10
Detailed Outline Due
5/27
Lab Exercise 2
6/3
Group Sheet 5
6/10
Presentation
Preparation
Presentations