Course Overview and Materials

Introduction

This guide summarizes the key policies, grading structure, and schedule for an Introduction to Chemistry (Chem 101) course. Understanding these elements is essential for academic success and effective time management throughout the semester.

Course Materials

• Textbook: Introductory Chemistry, 7th edition (Pearson, 2023).

• Course Packet: 12th edition (contains partial notes and homework sets).

• Technology: Personal computer with internet access and printer.

• Calculator: Nonprogrammable scientific calculator (recommended: TI-30XA or equivalent). Graphing, programmable, and cell phone calculators are not permitted for use on exams.

Grading and Course Policies

Exams (650 points; 65% of grade)

• Exams will be returned to you and reviewed by the instructor. You will receive a test report indicating which questions were missed and your score; scores will also be posted online.

• Missed exams require advance notice and documentation for make-up eligibility. Failure to contact the instructor within one week of a missed exam may result in a zero for that exam.

• Exams are typically administered in a supervised setting, such as the NC Testing Center. Bring a photo ID and only approved calculators.

• Policy: A minimum of one week's notice must be given if you must take an exam early.

Homework (100 points; 10% of grade)

• Homework is assigned regularly and must be submitted online before the due date and time.

• Each set is graded for completion and correctness. Show your work and your answer choices; you will not get points if these are missing.

• Homework feedback is available online. You may submit up to two attempts per homework set before the due date.

• Late homework is not accepted, and requests for late submissions or extensions are not granted.

• To do well in the course, do not miss any homework assignments.

• Homework points earned (out of 100) will be multiplied by 2.0 to determine the contribution to the final grade.

Lab (250 points; 25% of grade)

• Lab attendance is required. Missing more than two labs may result in failing the course.

• All students are responsible for all material presented during class, regardless of attendance.

Attendance and Missed Work

• Attendance is required for all lectures and labs. Students are responsible for all material, announcements, and assignments, even if absent.

Grade Assignment

Your final course grade is based on the percentage of points earned out of the 1000 possible in the course. Only exams, homework, and lab points are included in your grade; there is no extra credit or grade curving.

Homework Due Dates and Exam Schedule

Chemistry 101 Homework Due Dates

All homework must be submitted online before the end of the due date (11:59 p.m.) on the date indicated in this schedule.

Chemistry 101 Reading Assignments and Exam Schedule

Key Policies and Tips for Success

• Submit all homework and assignments on time; late work is not accepted.

• Attend all lectures and labs to avoid missing critical material and announcements.

• Use only approved calculators during exams.

• Contact your instructor in advance if you must miss an exam, and provide documentation as required.

• Review feedback on homework and exams to improve understanding and performance.

Example: Calculating Your Grade

• If you earn 85% on exams (650 points possible), 90% on homework (100 points possible), and 80% on lab (250 points possible):

Exams: Homework: Lab: Total: Percentage: (Grade: B)

Additional info: This guide is based on the course syllabus and schedule for a typical college-level Introduction to Chemistry course. For specific content coverage, refer to the textbook chapters and sections listed in the schedule.