Course Overview

Introduction to Organic Chemistry I

This syllabus outlines the structure, expectations, and learning outcomes for CHE 201: Organic Chemistry I. The course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of organic chemistry, including molecular structure, physical properties, stereochemistry, and reaction mechanisms of alkenes, alkynes, and alkyl halides. It is designed for students who have completed the prerequisite course CHE 152.

Course Description

Main Topics Covered

• Nomenclature of organic compounds

• Physical properties of organic molecules

• Stereochemistry and its implications in organic reactions

• Structure-reactivity relationships

• Reaction mechanisms of alkenes, alkynes, and alkyl halides

Additional info: The course fulfills SUNY GEN ED-GLAB and NCC GEN ED-LSCI requirements.

Learning Outcomes

Objectives for Student Achievement

• Multistep Synthesis: Students will propose multistep synthetic reactions to make moderately difficult organic molecules, demonstrating critical thinking.

• Chemical Quantities: Students will demonstrate the ability to calculate chemical quantities relevant to organic reactions.

• Product Identification: Students will be able to identify the products of a reaction using an FTIR spectrograph.

• Mechanistic Experimentation: Students will present the findings of a mechanistic experiment for peer review.

Instructional Methods

Teaching Strategies

• PowerPoint presentations and board writing for visualizing chemistry concepts.

• Use of molecular models to aid understanding of molecular structure.

• Computer programs (e.g., ChemDraw) for molecular visualization.

• Class discussions involving spatial perception of molecular structure.

Textbook and Materials

Required and Recommended Resources

• Textbook: Wade, L.G., Jr. Organic Chemistry, Ninth Edition (NCC Bookstore, Amazon)

• Molecular Models (MANDATORY): NCC Bookstore, Amazon

• Other Recommended Sources:

  • Organic Chemistry as a Second Language: First Semester Topics (David R. Klein)

  • Get Ready for Organic Chemistry (Joel Karty)

Student Responsibilities & Course Policies

Expectations and Conduct

• Students must read the textbook before class to prepare for lectures and exams.

• Problems may be assigned for additional practice; students are encouraged to solve extra problems for mastery.

• Attendance and participation are expected; students must take initiative in their learning.

• Withdrawal forms must be submitted immediately if signed by the professor.

• NO extracurricular activities allowed in the classroom (e.g., cell phone use, other classwork).

• Exams must be taken during regular class meeting times; no make-up exams except for documented emergencies.

Grading Policy

Assessment Structure

• Three midterm exams (100 points each)

• Cumulative final exam (200 points)

• Lab grade included in final calculation

Grade Calculation Formula:

Grade Scale

Academic Integrity

Dishonesty and Plagiarism

• Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion.

• Plagiarism includes submitting another's work as one's own, copying assignments, or using unauthorized resources.

• All cases are reported to the Office of the Dean of Students and may be kept on record for up to two semesters after attendance at the college.

Course Resources

Support and Accessibility

• Khan Academy

• Chemistry Help Center LS 124

• Reserved Books (NCC Main Library)

Accessibility and Support Statements

Disability and Non-Discrimination

• Students with physical, psychological, medical, or learning disabilities should contact the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) for accommodations.

• All information and documentation are kept confidential.

Food and Security

• Students experiencing food insecurity can visit the NEST @NCC Food Pantry for support.

• The NEST provides groceries and personal care items to NCC students and their families.

COVID-19 Policies and Campus Guidelines

Return to Campus Expectations

• All students must read and adhere to the Student Guide to Returning to Campus via the NCC Mobile App.

• Vaccination attestation and daily screening are required for campus access.

• QR codes must be scanned for check-in and check-out on campus.

• Social distancing and mask-wearing are required indoors.

Additional info: These policies are subject to change based on public health guidelines and college administration.