CHEM201-002 General Chemistry I (CRN 21710) Spring 2024
Hybrid Course (4 credit hours)
Classroom: Sims 215, MW 8:00–9:15
Online: Asynchronous Blackboard/Norton Digital
Dr.
Maria C. Gelabert Artiles
Office/Phone: 314A Sims Science Building/803-323-4939
Office Hours: M 2:00-3:00, WR 1:00-2:00 (Sims 314A or Zoom ID 803
323 4939/123456)
Ø
If you're
joining by Zoom, please let me know by email
Email is the best means of reaching me outside of class or office
hours. In order for me to provide a helpful response, your
message must be professional: direct, concise, clear and signed with your name.
I can usually respond to email within 24 hours; on weekends 48-60 hours. Please
use your standard Winthrop email account and make sure that you are included on
the class listserve. I use Blackboard announcements
or the email listserve throughout the semester. If
not on the listserve, you must subscribe here.
Two experienced chemistry seniors, Mackenzie Miller
and Steven Sasko, are your dedicated peer leaders for
this course. They will lead in-class problem solving activities, host in-person
study sessions prior to exams, and generally be of assistance for you
throughout this course.
Text with Electronic Access: Gilbert, Kirss, Bretz, Foster. Chemistry: An Atoms-Focused Approach, 3rd edition; Norton, 2020.
Norton Digital Resources (activate with
registration code): Ebook and Animations
Norton Digital Course: Smartwork5 (join Student Set 776031 with Winthrop
9-digit ID)
Texas Instruments TI-30Xa Scientific Calculator (NO cell phone use during exams)
Looseleaf paper
Ø Blackboard is used extensively in this course. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the course page, including Blackboard Tutorials & Campus Resources (left menu). Consult further with Blackboard Tutorials or email assistance (blackboard@winthrop.edu) as needed.
Ø Norton Animations and Smartwork5 are used extensively in this course. Once you’ve purchased the textbook and joined the course, please familiarize yourself with these resources.
In this introductory general chemistry course, we will study atomic structure, stoichiometry, reactivity, bonding, thermodynamics and gas laws (Chapters 1-10), with elements of bio- and materials chemistry (Chs. 18, 20).
Course activity and graded assignments in CHEM 201 foster and develop all of Winthrop ULCs, learning outcomes that apply across all undergraduate programs. Course Learning Objectives (CLO) are described in each bullet. Most applicable to this course is ULC 1:
ULC 1: Winthrop graduates think critically and solve problems. Winthrop University graduates reason logically, evaluate and use evidence, and solve problems. They seek out and assess relevant information from multiple viewpoints to form well-reasoned conclusions. Winthrop graduates consider the full context and consequences of their decisions and continually reexamine their own critical thinking process, including the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments.
Ø (CLO 1) Knowledge and depth of chemistry as a
theoretical and applied discipline
Ø (CLO 2) Competence in quantitative analysis:
mathematical skills, handling data and error, logic skills required for solving
chemistry problems, and synthesis of content for more complex problems.
ULC 2: Winthrop graduates are personally and socially
responsible.
Ø (CLO 3) Strong foundation of study habits to prepare
for advanced science courses, and an understanding of presentation of accurate
science data and information.
ULC 3: Winthrop graduates understand the interconnected
nature of the world and the time in which they live.
Ø (CLO 4) Understanding of general methods underlying
the modern chemical sciences, and understanding of chemistry connections to
other disciplines.
ULC 4: Winthrop graduates communicate effectively.
Ø (CLO 5) Demonstration of skill through correct data
presentation and clear written language, and effective communication through
oral discussion of concepts and problem-solving during classroom, office hour
or peer study time.
Besides meeting major/minor requirements for chemistry or another program, CHEM 201 also meets a general education requirement in natural sciences, with student learning objective (SLO) “Students will be conversant with a few fundamental concepts from natural science, including earth, life, and/or physical sciences.” Learning competencies listed above are commensurate with scientific knowledge and skill.
This course particularly aligns with ULC 1 in its focus on student problem-solving and development of critical thinking skills. Besides correct answers, students must demonstrate a well-documented, organized approach to each solved problem. They must effectively express the key mathematics, illustrate steps in equation rearrangement, use and express correct units, document cancellation of units, and determine correct number of significant figures. Students must also analyze whether the calculated result is logical based on chemical process or expected approximate values. Besides numerical accuracy, evaluation of assignments also focuses on written expression of scientific problem-solving: organization, documentation, logic, and methodology. Students must effectively communicate their problem-solving process so that it can be read and clearly understood. Multiple assignments will be used for evaluation: homework, quizzes, exams, and the cumulative final exam.
Every classroom session will consist of 30-45 minutes of lecture, with remaining time for Peer-Led Activity. For every upcoming class meeting, I strongly recommend reading the textbook sections to be covered before class (found in the Course Calendar). You are welcome to work on any posted material ahead of time as available.
This is a hybrid course earning 4 credit hours, with 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of in-person contact time. The remaining 1.5 hours of contact (approximately 33% of content) is accomplished online and asynchronously through video instruction, Animations videos and Smartwork Quizzes.
For successful completion of this course, please expect to spend at least several hours per week on this course, beyond classroom contact and online video/Animations/Quizzes.
This course is focused on problem-solving, and most content builds on the previous sections. Thus, it’s essential that you keep up with the content and assignments. Each week’s Learning Module on Blackboard includes content to be covered with specific assignments. Bb materials are presented sequentially. REVIEW each item as completed, and additional items for the week will be available.
Ø Students should understand that solving problems independently is most effective for mastering course skills. Many of the problems you will encounter are unlike those you’ve seen before, and you are expected to treat these as tiny mysteries to be solved (maybe collaboratively within a peer discussion).
Ø For your best learning experience, do not hesitate to organize the course material, and all available resources (tutoring, etc.), according to your early performance. Please be in contact with me about any challenges towards this end, and pledge the following:
1. I will ask questions immediately if I don't understand
instructions or due dates for assignments.
2. I will organize my time to keep up with assignments
and not fall behind.
3. I understand that failure of technology is not an
excuse for turning assignments in late.
4. As needed, I will review the technical support
information in the Blackboard Tutorials & Campus Resources and contacting support services.
5. I understand that there are other sources of technology
for me to use if my primary source fails, such as libraries, campus labs, or
friends' computers.
6. I will log in to Bb/Norton several times per week and
spend an appropriate amount of time each week completing course materials.
7. I will devote time to study each day, take good notes,
work problems as independently as possible and seek assistance as needed.
1. Plan to be “present” in the online parts of the course
by logging in several times weekly.
2. For email, you must use your Winthrop account;
Blackboard uses only your WU credentials. Approximate response times: Bb 1-2
days, email ≤ 1 day. On weekends, expect longer response times ≈ 48-60 hours.
3. For any logistic or syllabus-related course questions,
use the Ask the Instructor Forum in Bb (upper left menu) so others will
see your questions. In the spirit of a learning community, students are
encouraged to help each other by responding to questions from other students.
It is essential that you Subscribe in order to receive all inquiries/responses
by email.
4. When interacting with your fellow students online, in
Bb forums or email, remember to communicate with the same level of clarity,
professionalism and respect as in professional in-person communication.
5. For private messages to the instructor or another
student, only use Winthrop email.
(5%) Blackboard Discussion forums (2-3) will be assigned throughout the
semester for you to introduce yourself in the Icebreaker activity, or in
response to current events or publications related to the chemical sciences.
You are expected to submit a thoughtful, critically considered, coherent
reaction to each prompt up to 300 words.
(5%) Participation, taking the form of
Ø Regular attendance, with no indicators that
you're working on late HW, electronically engaged or being disruptive;
Ø Asking content questions during lecture;
Ø Active engagement during Peer-Led Activity;
Ø Online presence and engagement with
Blackboard and Norton Digital resources.
(13%) Handwritten Homework assignments (1-4 textbook Summary problems), will be assigned every lecture, due AT THE BEGINNING OF THE NEXT LECTURE. Assignments will be handwritten on loose leaf paper, folded in half lengthwise, with last name on the outside to keep your work private. Completed assignments submitted early or brought to class by trusted friends are welcome. If anything is submitted to my office in my absence, please send me a quick email to verify it is received. No electronic submissions.
Ø Each
assignment is out of 4 points, and the lowest two grades will be dropped.
Submissions between class arrival and 9:15 AM can earn up to 2 points (please
avoid this). Submissions not on loose leaf paper (with spiral notebook edges)
can earn up to 3 points. Late or electronic submissions will not be
accepted.
Ø For full credit, answers to homework problems must be complete, with explanations and steps clearly communicated.
(2%) Mathematics Videos. During Week 1, your first quiz on Smartwork5
will be a math review. If you earn at least an 80%, you can place out of the
Math Video portions of this course. These Youtube videos,
entitled The Math You'll Use in Chemistry (Melissa Maribel), are designed to help you review and
practice the mathematics skills you'll use throughout CHEM201.
(10%) Electronic quizzes, via Smartwork5, will be available Monday and due most Fridays by 11:59 PM.
Ø Most quizzes have three attempts per question, due at 11:59 PM on a specific date.
(40%) Handwritten, cumulative exams will be held on the following days: 1/31, 2/21, 3/20, 4/10. These are closed book and include any complex formulas, constants and periodic table. You may use only a pencil, eraser, and a scientific calculator (NO cell phones). Exam content is indicated on the Course Calendar.
Ø All exams for this course are cumulative, reflecting the reality that most of the course material builds from the previous content. Each regular exam will cover approximately 60% from the most recent two chapters and 40% from the previous chapters.
Ø No make-up exams will be administered. Under severe circumstances, with proper documentation by Dean of Students, I will consider dropping up to one (1) exam score.
(15%) The cumulative final exam is scheduled for 8:00 am, Tuesday, April 30. The final will assess students’ understanding of fundamental concepts of chemistry covered in this course. Two to three pages of this exam will be evaluated further for department and university assessment purposes.
(10%) The highest exam score, including the final, is worth an additional 10%.
Your minimum course grade will be based on the following 100-point scale:
|
A |
93-100 |
B+ |
87-89 |
C+ |
77-79 |
D+ |
67-69 |
F |
≤ 59 |
|
A- |
90-92 |
B |
83-86 |
C |
73-76 |
D |
63-66 |
|
|
|
|
|
B- |
80-82 |
C- |
70-72 |
D- |
60-62 |
|
|
This is a hybrid course. Students enrolled in hybrid/online courses are entitled to the same campus resources available to on-campus students. These resources include admissions counseling, library, student services, and recreational facilities. Any logistic or syllabus-related questions may be directed to Ask the Instructor forum, on the upper left menu of the Blackboard course page.
Winthrop’s Academic Success Center is a free resource for all undergraduate students seeking to perform their best academically. The ASC offers a variety of personalized and structured resources that help students achieve academic excellence, such as tutoring, academic skill development (test taking strategies, time management counseling, and study techniques), group and individual study spaces, and academic coaching. The ASC is located in Dinkins 106, 803-323-3929.
Winthrop University is dedicated to providing access to education. If you have a disability and require specific accommodations to complete this course, contact the Office of Accessibility (OA) at 803-323-3290 or accessibility@winthrop.edu. Once you have your official notice of accommodations from the Office of Accessibility, please inform me as early as possible in the semester.
Although COVID-19 has reached an endemic phase, it is still
important to remain vigilant as we face a recent rise in positive cases.
As socially responsible members of this community, everyone is expected to
engage in daily health self-monitoring, to stay home (residence hall or
off-campus housing) from on-campus class, work, or activities if they begin
experiencing any COVID-related symptoms. Masks are available in the classroom
for student use.
When experiencing any COVID-related
symptoms, students are expected to contact Health Services by completing the QI
form in the Patient Portal and respond to the nurse who will contact
them with instructions. COVID positive residential students are required to
follow their QI plan for 5 days of isolation off campus so be prepared with a
back-up plan as well. By acknowledgement, you agree to Winthrop’s expectations
of you regarding health monitoring and reporting.
March 19 is the last day to withdraw from a full semester course. Students may not withdraw from a course after this date without documented extenuating circumstances as deemed by the University.
At Winthrop University in the College of Arts and Sciences, diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to our academic mission and institutional identity. We value and see others as whole people. Our faculty, staff, and students work together to create a community where people of all races, ethnicities, genders and gender identities, sexualities, socioeconomic classes, cultural backgrounds, nations of origin, ages, religions, political perspectives, abilities, and body types can truly thrive.
All grades should be individually earned, from homework assignments to exams. The honor system holds expectations that students will only submit their own work effort into this course, for in-person and electronic activities. I encourage working with other students/tutors and use of electronic resources and any solutions manual. However, if you find yourself mindlessly using an answer from any other source, not doing the problem yourself, or more blatant versions of not doing the work, these activities are violations of Winthrop’s Academic Integrity code, and will precipitously lower your course grade through poor exam scores. I expect each student to understand and abide by Section 7 of Winthrop’s Code of Student Conduct (p. 17) for all course activities.
As noted in the Student Conduct Code, “Responsibility for good conduct
rests with students as adult individuals.” The classroom environment
should be a safe environment for everyone. Students are expected to listen
respectfully to others and to share their own opinions and ideas in a
respectful manner. Students and the instructor are expected to treat each
member of the class with dignity, civility, care, and kindness. Classroom
behavior that substantially or repeatedly interferes with the conduct of the class
will not be tolerated. Students who engage in disruptive behavior will be
subject to sanctions as specified in the Student
Conduct Code.
The Policy for the Appropriate Use of Digital Technologies is in effect for this class. Wanna use a laptop/tablet for notes? On occasion, do you need to have your phone out to be on call for a friend/family member? No problem. Just keep all gadgets completely silent, don’t disturb others, and BE HERE, PRESENT, and INTENTIONAL as much as possible. Keep me posted on any temporary situations as you deem it necessary.
Regular attendance is expected and crucial for satisfactory performance in this course. Winthrop policy states that any more than 25% student absence will receive a grade of N (if student withdraws by deadline), F or U. That said, need to leave sometime for illness? Emergency? No sweat. Keep any disturbance minimal, and BE HERE, PRESENT, and INTENTIONAL as much as possible. Please be in contact with appropriate campus resources (Dean of Students, CAS Student Services, OA) as needed, and keep me informed of any circumstances affecting attendance.
As much as possible, any syllabus changes will be only to the Course Calendar, and will be promptly communicated on the Blackboard landing page, Bb announcement and/or class listserve.
Every classroom session will consist of 30-45 minutes of lecture, with remaining time for Peer-Led Activity. For every upcoming class meeting, I strongly recommend reading the textbook sections to be covered before class (found in the Course Calendar). You are welcome to work on any posted material ahead of time as available. This is a hybrid course, where approximately 33% of content delivery is accomplished online and asynchronously. Please expect to spend at least several hours per week beyond classroom contact and online video/Animations/Quizzes.