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Instructor:
CHEM& 121 (Winter 2010)
Dr. Erin M. Gibbons
[email protected]
(425) 352- 8631
Office: Room 361
Course website: http://sites.google.com/site/cascadia121
Office Hours: W, Th: 2:45 pm - 3:30 pm (or by appointment)
Meeting Places/Times:
Lecture: T,Th (3:45 pm – 5:25 pm) in Room CC2-358
Lab: W (3:45 pm – 5:35 pm) in Room CC1-330
Required Textbook: Introductory Chemistry (Third Edition) by Nivaldo J. Tro
Other Required Materials:
 Lab Manual: CHEM& 121 Lab Packet for Winter 2010 (from Bookstore)
 Scientific calculator (needs to be able to do scientific notation and logs)
 Goggles (can purchase at Bookstore)
 WebAssign.com registration ($15.95) – code: cascadia 5232 9505
Prerequisites: Co-enrollment with or completion of MATH 095 with a grade of 2.0 or higher.
Course Description: From consumer products to space age technologies, chemistry affects our daily
lives. In this course, students will learn the structure of matter and how it behaves under various
conditions in order to better understand the chemical world. Designed for students with little or no
chemistry background, this course can stand alone or be followed by CHEM& 161 (formerly CHEM
142) or CHEM& 131 (formerly CHEM 220). Laboratory activities extend lecture concepts and
introduce the student to the experimental process. (LAB)
Course Overview: This course covers selected sections from chapters 1-10, 12-15 and 17 in Tro.
Students will be introduced to a variety of topics in general chemistry through a combination of
lectures, labs, and group activities. Homework assignments and exams will be given in order to
reinforce the concepts presented in class. A group project on a topic relating the course material to
either human or environmental health will give the students an opportunity to explore more deeply
how chemistry is part of their everyday lives.
Grading:
Homework:
Labs:
9 (drop lowest)
Quiz/Group Activities/ Reflections:
Project:
Exams:
3
Final Exam:
(cumulative)
Total
x
10%
=
=
10%
20%
15%
10%
30%
15%
100%
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Your percentage of the total points will be converted to grades approximately as follows:
Numerical Grade
4.0 :
3.5 - 3.9:
3.0 - 3.4:
2.5 - 2.9 :
%
90%-100%
85%-89%
80%-84%
75% -79%
Numerical Grade
2.0 - 2.4
1.0 - 1.9 :
0.0 :
%
65% - 74%
55%-64%
Below 55%
Course Content, Topics, and Themes:
 Scientific method
 Structure of the atom
 Types and phases of matter
 Development and use of the periodic table
 Atoms, molecules, ions
 Ionic and covalent bonding
 The mole and Avagadro’s number
 Role of energy in chemical reactions
 Gas Laws
 Equilibrium
 Kinetics
 Acids/bases and buffers
Course specific Learning 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 understand fundamental information from the periodic table
 Describe the organization of atoms into molecules and factors determining this organization
 Describe the different classes and states of matter
 Describe conceptually what the equilibrium state represents, and identify factors that affect
equilibrium
 Describe factors that affect reaction rates
 Use gas laws to quantitatively describe gaseous behavior
 Identify the main idea in a scientific article and learn to generate questions about the
information presented
 Deepen conceptual understanding of chemical concepts through group discussion and
assignments
 Gain proficiency in using scientific notation, significant figures, and measurement units
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 concepts of energy to explain why chemical reactions occur
 Use the scientific method to explain how we know characteristics of matter, not just what we
assume to be true
 Relate classroom and laboratory experiences to phenomena outside the classroom
 Gain confidence in making reasoned judgments on societal issues relating to chemistry
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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 and written laboratory reports
 Construct and interpret graphs
 Use computer resources to generate laboratory reports
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 perform laboratory experiments and solve problems
 Gain confidence in following experimental procedures, especially accurate recording of data
 Develop insights into the interactions between theory and experimentation
 In all group work, listen and contribute with respect and honesty
Labs: The laboratory is a mandatory part of the course. Each lab requires a significant amount of
preparation before you enter the laboratory. Always be prepared for lab. Safety First! Many
chemicals in the lab are hazardous, so handle all chemicals carefully and dispose of all waste properly.
Be aware of yourself and those around you at all times (pay attention!). The experiments and report
sheets (except for the chemical resources lab) are contained in the CHEM& 121 Lab Manual. The
requirements for lab reports are also in the Lab Manual. Proper lab attire includes closed shoes, and
coverage below the knees. Wear your goggles at all times! The lab work and post-lab calculations
represent a significant amount of work outside of lab, and will be due one week after the lab work is
completed. Pre-labs will be due before each lab begins. Lab reports will generally be due the
Wednesday following each experiment (see daily schedule). The lowest lab score will be dropped. No
make-up labs will be possible. Goggles must be worn whenever anyone in the lab is working with
chemicals or glassware. No food or drinks are allowed in the lab. Although you will share data, and
are encouraged to discuss any aspects of the lab with your classmates, you are expected to write and
turn in your own individual work for your reports.
Special Notes Regarding Lab:
*If you arrive to lab late (after the safety and procedures lecture) you will not be allowed to
participate in the lab. You may stay as an observer, take down data and write up the report for a
maximum of 65% credit for the lab report.
*You must pass the lab portion of the class with at least 50% of the total points available (after
dropping your lowest lab score) in order to receive credit for the LAB portion of the class.
*You will be required to submit the signature sheet (provided in the lab packet) at the second lab
meeting (first wet lab). (If under 18 your parent or guardian must sign).
Homework: Homework will be assigned using WebAssign. The best way to use your time is to work
the problems through on paper and then submit the entire assignment on WebAssign all at once. You
will receive feedback immediately, and you can re-work the problems that had errors. Homework will
be graded for accuracy, significant figures, and units, with partial credit given for each.
Working through problems is the best way to understand chemistry. The more problems you do, the
more likely you are to succeed in this course; working additional problems beyond those assigned is
highly recommended. For that reason, extra assignments will be added to WebAssign for a reduced
amount of “extra” credit.
Working with a study group is a great way to break through tough material, and to gain a deeper
understanding of concepts. Just be sure your work is actually your own!
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Group Activities: There will be three group activities, one for each Unit, which will be completed in
class. The activities are due at the end of the class period in which they are completed (see daily
schedule). Although you will work on these in groups, each student must hand in their own paper to
get credit. These activities are a chance to apply the material covered in the reading, lectures,
worksheets, prepared problems and homework in collaboration with your peers.
Reflections: During the first week of class you will formulate a set of personal goals for the class and
design a plan to meet these goals. Several weeks into the course you will have the opportunity to
reassess your goals and revise your plan as needed, as well as to assess the structure/elements of the
class. At the end of the course you will reflect on your success in meeting your goals and on the
effectiveness of your plan.
Project: Students will form small groups and each group will choose a topic on which to prepare a
poster to be presented at a poster session towards the end of the quarter. The project will involve
relating one or more concepts from the class to human and/or environmental health. Each group of 3-4
students will prepare one poster, one summary sheet and one poster presentation outline. Each student
will also write a reflection on the group process. More information on the project will be given out in
a separate handout.
Exams: There will be three exams (55 minutes) and a comprehensive final.
Attendance: Although attendance is not directly a part of your grade, poor attendance will likely
result in a lower grade due to missed exams, prepared problems or labs, late assignments and gaps in
your understanding of the course material. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to obtain the
lecture notes and any other handouts from the web site, or from a classmate, not from the instructor.
Late Assignments: All assignments (except for activities) are due at the beginning of class on the due
date. In general, no late work will be accepted. Labs will be accepted one day late, at 50% penalty.
WebAssign allows students to request extensions online. Extensions will be granted to the entire class,
or heavily penalized. Note: If you expect to miss class, you may submit assignments to me early
(hard copy or by email) to get full credit.
Re-grades: For a re-grade on an exam or assignment you should write a brief explanation of why you
should receive more credit, attach it to the exam or assignment and give it to me no later than one week
after the assignment/exam was handed back to you. If a simple arithmetic error was made in adding
your score, see me for an immediate correction.
Attitude and Class Participation: Please show respect towards myself, and your fellow classmates,
by listening when others are speaking, by participating and allowing others to participate in group
activities, and by keeping all criticism constructive. Every question is a good question, so please ask
questions in class. Chances are other have the same question but are afraid to ask. When I ask
questions of the class, try to answer even if you might be wrong. Often the wrong answers are the best
lecture tools. Please turn off all cell-phones, pagers or other electronic communication devices
during class. See me if you have a legitimate need to have yours on. Please refrain from packing up
until I dismiss class.
How to Succeed: Read ahead of lecture, and do homework every day. Keep up with the material,
come to class, hand in all assignments, study early for exams, and above all get help when you need it.
Read the chapter before lecture and after. Be prepared for lab. Get help early. Don’t wait until the
day before the exam to clear up your questions. Chemistry should be interesting and exciting as well as
challenging, so have fun!
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Class materials: You should bring your calculator to both lecture and lab. If possible, bring your
book to class. Always bring your lab sheets, goggles and a pen to lab.
Cascadia Community College Learning Agreement:

Academic Honesty: 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.
*In this class, any work found to involve academic dishonesty will be given a grade of 0.0 and the
incident will be reported.

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 information, go to the Open Learning Center for a complete copy
of the Information Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedures.

Counseling Services: If you have a personal problem or stress that is affecting your
schoolwork and would like to talk with someone, please contact the Cascadia counselor. Counseling at
Cascadia is confidential, professional and free. Visit the Kodiak Corner front desk or call 452-3528860 for an appointment.

Disability Support Services: If you have or suspect you have a disability and need an
accommodation please contact the front office in Kodiak Corner at 452-352-8383 to make an
appointment with the Disability Support Services. Services and Accommodations through DSS are not
retroactive.

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: 425-3528000 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.
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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.

Learning Assistance Options: To support student success, Cascadia offers a variety of
support services. The Open Learning Center provides a place for students to receive assistance with
class assignments, the e-portfolio and technology needs. It contains a computer lab and tutoring
center that houses both the Writing Center and the Math Center, where students can seek
individualized tutoring on a walk-in basis. The Open Learning Center is located in CC060.
PLEASE NOTE that in the event of a school closure, course content and assessment will be managed
through the course website.
Flu Information for Students
Cascadia is taking steps to prevent the spread of seasonal and H1N1 (Swine) flu on campus. Please
read the important information below and help Cascadia prevent the spread of flu.

Make sure that Cascadia has your current contact information, just in case we need to reach
you. Update your contact information by going to Kodiak Corner or online at
www.cascadia.edu/campus_resources/online_resources.aspx. Under the Network Access and
Personal Information heading, select the link to the Student Address Information.

If you are ill, stay home and notify your instructor by phone or email. Continue to turn in your
homework and assignments by email or as directed by your instructor. Return to Cascadia only
when you are symptom-free without the use of medications.

You are encouraged to be vaccinated this fall against both seasonal and H1N1 (Swine) flu.
Vaccination is the best protection against contracting flu.

Your instructors each have plans to continue teaching in the unlikely situation that the physical
buildings on campus would need to be closed. Your instructors will provide details about how
this will work for your particular classes.
Preventing the Spread of Germs
Health officials recommend the following precautions:
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Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue,
cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
Wash your hands with soap and water frequently, especially after you cough or sneeze.
Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Try to avoid close contact with people who are ill.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
If you get sick, stay home and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
Symptoms of H1N1 (Swine) flu are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu that happens each
year. These may include fever, cough, and sore throat, as well as fatigue, body aches, headache,
chills, runny nose, vomiting, and diarrhea.
For complete information, visit the Washington State Department of Health website at
www.doh.wa.gov/h1n1/
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Daily Schedule for CHEM& 121 Winter 2010 (subject to change as needed):
Tuesday
Wednesday
1/6
Lab Safety and Check-In
Lab 1: Chemical Resources
(no goggles)
1/12
Ch. 2.7, 2.9-2.10, 3.1-3.6, 12.2
[Reflection 1 due]
1/13
Lab 2: Separation of a
Mixture
Thursday
1/7
Course Introduction
Ch. 1.4, 2.1-2.6
1/14
Ch. 4.1-4.6, 4.8-4.9
[HW 1 due]
[Lab 1 due]
1/19
Ch 17.1, 17.3-17.9, 17.11
1/26
Exam 1
2/2
Ch. 10.3, 5.6-5.7, 10.4-10.5, 5.8
[HW 3 due]
2/9
Ch. 3.7-3.12, 7.1-7.4, 7.9-7.10
2/16
Exam 2
2/23
Ch. 8.5-8.6, 15.1-15.3, 15.715.10, 15.12
[HW 6 due]
3/2
Ch. 7.8, 14.1-14.10
[HW 7 due]
3/9
Exam 3
[HW 8 due, Lab 9 due (no
conclusions page)]
3/16
Review
1/20
Lab 3: Nuclear Reactions
(no goggles)
[Lab 2 due]
1/27
Lab 4: Chemical Changes
[Lab 3 due]
2/3
Lab 5: Model Building (no
goggles)
[Lab 4 due]
2/10
Lab 6: Gas Laws
[Lab 5 due]
1/21
2/17
Lab 7: Reactions of
Common Metals
[Lab 6 due]
2/24
Lab 8: Ionic Solutions and
Reactions
[Lab 7 due]
3/3
Lab 9: Titration
[Lab 8 due]
3/10
No Lab
Preparation Time for Student
Seminar
3/17
No lab.
2/18
Ch. 5.11, 6.1-6.5, 8.1-8.4
Group Activity 1
[Activity 1 due, HW 2 due]
1/28
Ch. 9.5-9.8, 10.2, 4.7, 5.3-5.5
2/4
Ch. 10.7-10.8, 12.1, 12.6, 12.8
[HW 4 due]
2/11
Group Activity 2
[Activity 2 due, HW 5]
2/25
Ch. 7.5-7.6, 13.2-13.8
3/4
Group Activity 3
[Activity 3 due]
3/11
Student Seminar
[Seminar Reflection due]
3/18
Final Exam (cumulative)
[Reflection 2 due]