CHM 100 - Basic Chemistry

1. Define basic chemistry terms.
2. Demonstrate the skills necessary, including graphing, to solve chemistry related math problems. (GELO 3, GELO 7)
3. Apply correct significant figure convention and scientific notation to solved problems.
4. Choose the correct base unit for a given measurement.
5. Solve basic problems relating the structure and nomenclature of atoms, molecules, and ions.
6. Identify the basic structure of the periodic table and use it to predict ion and bond formation.
7. Describe the main classes of chemical bonds.
8. Draw Lewis structures from formulas and predict the shapes of molecules. (GELO 7)
9. Relate the structure of a molecule to physical properties such as solubility and boiling point.
10. Write balanced chemical equations, including precipitation reactions.
11. Write complete ionic and net ionic chemical equations from a molecular equation.
12. Solve stoichiometry problems, including limiting reagents and percent yield calculations, using dimensional analysis. (GELO 7)
13. Solve mathematical problems involving concentration units using dimensional analysis. (GELO 7)
14. Define and give examples of the basic terms, concepts, theories, and principles of chemistry.
15. Compare, integrate and evaluate sources of information presented in different formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively) as well as in words in order to address a scientific question or solve a problem. (GELO 3, GELO 7)
16. Use models based on evidence to illustrate and/or predict the relationships between systems or between components of a system.
17. Apply scientific ideas, principles, and/or evidence to provide an explanation of phenomena. (GELO 3)
18. Apply techniques of basic algebra and dimensional analysis to represent and solve scientific problems (e.g. stoichiometry, concentration). (GELO 7)
19. Consider limitations of data analysis (e.g., measurement error, precision) when analyzing and interpreting data.
20. Become familiar/comfortable with the scientific method and science as a way of knowing.
21. Evaluate the claims, evidence, and/or reasoning behind accepted explanations to determine the merits of arguments. (GELO 3)
22. Develop a plan to implement a solution to a problem or issue. (GELO 7)
23. Identify the best solution to a problem or issue. (GELO 3)
24. Use creativity and alternative thinking to brainstorm new ideas and possible solutions to problems and issues. (GELO 3, GELO 7)
25. Use rules or frameworks to provide context for and understand problems or issues. (GELO 3)
26. Create a written summary of the main ideas extracted from information gathered. (GELO 3)

    A. The scientific method

    B. Analyzing and Interpreting Data

II. Measurement

    A. Precision and accuracy

    B. Significant figures

    C. Scientific notation

    D. Conversion of units

    E. Graphing skills (optional)

III. The Atom

    A. Elements vs. compounds

    B. Elements and ions

    C. Composition of the atom

IV. The Structure of the Periodic Table

V. Nomenclature 

    A. Metal-nonmetal binary compounds

    B. Compounds with polyatomic ions

    C. Nonmetal-nonmetal binary compounds

VI. Modern Atomic Theory

    A. The emission spectra of the elements

    B.  Models for electrons in the atom

    C.  Orbitals

    D.  Shells and subshells

    E.  Electron configuration 

VII. The Chemical Bond

    A. Electronegativity and bond type

    B. The octet rule and bonding

    C. Lewis structures and VSEPR theory

    D. Polarity of molecules

VIII. Chemical Reactions

    A. Symbols of the chemical equation

    B.  Balancing chemical equations

    C.  Aqueous solutions and solubility

    D. Writing precipitation reactions (molecular, complete ionic and net ionic equations)

IX. Quantitative Relationships

    A.  Relative masses of the elements

    B.  The mole and molar mass

    C.  Stoichiometry and limiting reagents

X. Solids and Liquids

    A. States of matter and their properties

    B. Intermolecular Forces

    C. IM forces and physical properties

XI. Aqueous Solutions

    A. Terms

    B. Water as a solvent

    D. Concentration Units

    E. Calculations with Molarity

XII. The Gas Laws (optional)   

XIII. Acids and Bases (optional)

    A. Terms

    B. pH, pOH (applications to everyday life)

    C. pH calculations

XIV. Nuclear Chemistry (optional)

    A. Reactions

    B. Stability

    C. Applications

XV. Environmental/ Green Chemistry (optional)

Classroom discussion, group work and problem solving: 15-25%

1. Two or more unit exams.
2. Cumulative final exam.
3. Discussion board (for online courses).

Essential Abilities - Chemistry

The Grand Rapids Community College Chemistry faculty has specified essential abilities and technical standards critical to the success of students in any GRCC chemistry course. Students must demonstrate these essential abilities to succeed in these courses. Qualified applicants are expected to meet all admission criteria and matriculating students are expected to meet all progression criteria, as well as these essential abilities and technical standards with or without reasonable accommodations.

I. Essential judgment skills include the ability to identify, assess, and comprehend situations for the purpose of problem solving and coming to appropriate conclusions and/or course of actions. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Apply mathematical concepts to solve problems
• Discern relevant and irrelevant information when solving problems
• Express knowledge of the appropriate level of chemistry in written and/or verbal formats
• Draw conclusions based on knowledge and experimental results

II. Essential communication skills include the ability to communicate effectively with fellow students, faculty, and all members of the Physical Sciences department. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Understand written and verbal direction when completing tasks and assignments associated with the lecture portion of science courses
• Understand written and verbal directions when following all Departmental safety rules and procedures
• Use information technology skills consistent with effective communication

III. Essential emotional coping skills include the ability to demonstrate the mental health necessary to safely engage in the practice of scientific discovery. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Engage in multitasking without becoming overly stressed
• Cooperate with others and work in groups or alone as indicated by a particular course

IV. Essential intellectual/conceptual skills include the ability to measure, calculate, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate to engage competently in the safe practice of Chemistry. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Select appropriate methods to solve mathematical problems
• Use a calculator to complete calculations
• Use a computer to generate graphs and reports
• Analyze complex graphical data and/ or concepts
• Express an understanding of the concepts learned in chemistry in written form or verbally

V. Other essential behavioral attributes include the ability to engage in activities consistent with safe practice without demonstrated behaviors of addiction to, abuse of, or dependence on alcohol or other drugs that may impair behavior or judgment. The student must demonstrate responsibility and accountability for actions as a student in the Physical Sciences Department and as a developing professional in the field of chemistry consistent with accepted standards of practice.

Grand Rapids Community College strives to be more than ADA compliant. We strive to be accessible and welcoming to all students of all abilities. After reviewing the Essential Abilities/Technical Standards for this program; your responsibilities as a student entail determining if you can complete all associated coursework either:

1. With Accommodation. I am otherwise qualified to meet the same academic standards as any other student entering the program. However, based on a medically documented condition or diagnosis, I would qualify for reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990). I will meet with Disability Support Services on campus to arrange those accommodations in an interactive process with the department of Physical Sciences.
    
2. Without Accommodation. I am able to complete the program without need for reasonable accommodation or modification. In the event my medical documentation reveals otherwise or a condition manifests that would necessitate an accommodation; it is my responsibility to inform a responsible authority figure within the department of (field of study) and work with Disability Support Services to see if a reasonable accommodation or modification can be made.

If you have a medically documented condition or diagnosis, please contact the (field of study) office, or contact Disability Support Services (DSS) at disability@grcc.edu or by phone at 616.234.4140 to arrange accommodations through our interactive process.