Course Overview: CHM 342 Survey of Organic Chemistry

Introduction

This course provides a comprehensive survey of organic chemistry, focusing on the structure, properties, and reactions of organic molecules. It is designed for students who have completed prerequisite courses in chemistry and aims to develop both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills.

Course Structure and Requirements

Instructor and Contact Information

• Lecturer: Angela McGuirk

• Email: mcgui2am@cmich.edu

• Office: Dow 237 B

• Office Hours: To be announced and scheduled by appointment

Class Schedule

• Lecture: Dow 171 M, Th, F 8-8:50 AM

• Pre-lab lectures: Dr. Choon Lee (lee1cv@cmich.edu), available as videos on Blackboard

• In-person labs: Multiple instructors in Dow 367 at various times on Wednesday

Required Materials

• Textbook: 6th Edition of Timberlake: GOB Chemistry Structures of Life

• Online Access: Mastering Chemistry (eText and assignments)

• Optional: Molecular Model Kit (e.g., Darling Models)

Course Learning Objectives

Key Goals

• Extend knowledge of molecular structure, especially carbon compounds

• Explain the importance of energy changes in organic chemical transformations

• Correlate the structures of major functional groups with their chemical properties

• Master synthetic approaches for the preparation of the most common functional groups

• Write reaction mechanisms for major functional group transformations

• Predict the mechanisms and outcomes of organic functional group transformations using experimental data

• Demonstrate proficiency in major laboratory techniques and operations, including chromatography, recrystallization, extraction, melting point determination, distillation, sublimation, and titration

• Memorize safe procedures in handling organic chemicals and laboratory operations

Course Components

Lecture

• Attendance is required except in cases of illness or extenuating circumstances

• Active participation is expected; students should engage with material and ask questions

Laboratory

• Lab attendance is mandatory; more than three missed labs must be replaced with online labs

• Lab safety and proper attire are required (closed-toe shoes, goggles, long pants, etc.)

• Lab reports and safety quizzes are required for each lab

Assignments and Exams

• Assignments are completed via Mastering Chemistry and Blackboard

• Three exams during the semester, plus a comprehensive final exam

• Lab quizzes and reports contribute to the overall grade

Grading Policy

Grade Breakdown

• Exam 1: 15%

• Exam 2: 15%

• Final Exam: 20%

• Assignments: 18%

• Labs: 17%

Course Grade Calculation

• Lab score = (total points you earn/total lab points available) × 100%

• Exam score = (total questions answered correctly/total questions available) × 100%

• Assignment score = (total points you earn/total assignment points available) × 100%

Grading Scale

Student Responsibilities

Active Learning

• Engage with course material beyond memorization; focus on understanding concepts

• Participate in class discussions and problem-solving activities

• Complete homework and practice problems regularly

Attendance and Participation

• Regular attendance is required for both lecture and lab

• Absences must be communicated in advance and documented

Academic Integrity

• Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited

• All work must be your own; collaboration is allowed only when specified

• Violations will be reported and may result in disciplinary action

Special Accommodations

• Students with disabilities should contact the Student Disability Services Office for accommodations

• Confidentiality is maintained for all requests

Course Topics Outline

Main Topics

• Molecular Structure and Bonding: Understanding the structure of organic molecules, including hybridization and functional groups

• Functional Groups: Identification and properties of major organic functional groups (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, amines, etc.)

• Reaction Mechanisms: Stepwise processes by which organic reactions occur, including nucleophilic substitution, elimination, addition, and rearrangement reactions

• Stereochemistry: Study of spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules and its effect on chemical behavior

• Laboratory Techniques: Chromatography, recrystallization, extraction, melting point determination, distillation, sublimation, titration

• Safety Procedures: Proper handling of chemicals, use of safety equipment, and laboratory protocols

Additional Information

• All assignments and course materials are accessed via Blackboard and Mastering Chemistry

• Students are responsible for keeping up with announcements and deadlines

• Make-up exams and labs are only allowed with documentation of excused absences

Summary Table: Course Components and Weighting

Conclusion

CHM 342 is designed to provide a solid foundation in organic chemistry, preparing students for further study or professional work in chemistry and related fields. Success in this course requires active engagement, consistent practice, and adherence to academic and laboratory standards.