General Chemistry I

This full-time course will offer an intensive introduction to the concepts and methods of college-level general chemistry, providing the equivalent of the first half of a yearlong course in general chemistry. It will use an organizing theme that is based on the cycles and transformations of matter and energy at a variety of scales in both living and nonliving systems. Use of quantitative methods will be emphasized in all areas of the program, providing additional insights into these processes.

Students will undertake assignments focused on interpreting and integrating all of the topics covered. The work will emphasize critical thinking and quantitative reasoning, as well as the development of proficient writing and speaking skills.Program activities will include lectures, small-group problem-solving workshops, and laboratory work. Students can expect to spend several hours a day in lab each week, maintain laboratory notebooks, write formal laboratory reports and give formal presentations of their work. Group work will also include reading and discussion of topics of current or historical significance in chemistry.

This will be a rigorous course, requiring a serious commitment of time and effort on the part of the student. Overall, it is expected that students will end the course with the ability to reason critically, solve problems and have hands-on experience with general chemistry.

This course will give students the chemistry prerequisite needed to pursue General Chemistry II.