Organic Chemistry I: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course provides a foundational understanding of organic chemistry, focusing on the structure, properties, and reactions of organic molecules. It is designed for students in nursing, pre-med, and other science-related programs. The course emphasizes analytical thinking, problem-solving, and the application of organic chemistry principles to real-world scenarios.

• Course Code: CHEM 231P

• Instructor: Navneet Kaur

• Prerequisites: CHEM 111-112, CHEM 115-116

• Textbook: Brown & Poon, Introduction to Organic Chemistry, 5th or 6th Edition (Wiley)

• Supplemental: Wiley Plus Course (includes ebook)

• Recommended: Molecular Modeling Kit

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

• Understand the molecular forces holding organic compounds together.

• Classify organic compounds according to structure and identify functional groups.

• Analyze the relationship between structure and function of a molecule.

• Understand reaction mechanisms and predict products.

• Relate the reactivity of a functional group to the properties of a compound.

• Recognize the reactions in which organic compounds are involved.

• Apply problem-solving skills to organic chemistry questions.

Major Topics Covered

• Structure and Bonding in Organic Molecules

• Functional Groups and Nomenclature

• Stereochemistry

• Reaction Mechanisms

• Biologically Relevant Reactions

• Applications to Real-World Problems

Student Responsibilities

• Regular attendance and participation

• Completion of assigned readings before class

• Active engagement in problem-solving and group work

• Timely submission of assignments via Brightspace

Professor Responsibilities

• Present material in accessible and engaging ways

• Provide a variety of methods to learn the material

• Offer regular feedback and support

Course Structure

• Two lectures per week

• Content delivered through in-person lectures and online resources

• Assignments, quizzes, and exams administered via Brightspace

Minimum Technical Skills

• Operate a typical PC or Mac computer

• Navigate the Brightspace course site

• Communicate via online tools (email, Brightspace Messages, Forums)

• Attach files to assignments

• Upload/download digital files

Grading and Assessment

Grades are based on a combination of assignments, quizzes, exams, and participation. The grading scheme is outlined below:

Final letter grades are assigned as follows:

Assessment Methods

• Problem Sets: Practice problems to reinforce concepts.

• Online Quizzes: Timed quizzes for each chapter; lowest score dropped.

• Homework Assignments: Submitted via Brightspace; late work not accepted.

• Unit Exams: Cumulative exams covering major topics.

• Final Exam: Comprehensive assessment at the end of the semester.

• Clicker Questions: In-class participation and engagement.

Attendance and Participation Policy

• Attendance is required; participation is tracked via clicker questions and activities.

• No food is allowed in class.

• Absences must be documented for approval (e.g., illness, family emergency).

• Cell phones must be silenced and put away during class.

Academic Integrity

• All assignments must be completed individually unless otherwise specified.

• Plagiarism and unauthorized collaboration are strictly prohibited.

• Violations may result in disciplinary action.

Additional info:

• This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the Organic Chemistry I course, including expectations, grading, and major topics. Students are encouraged to use the textbook and online resources for further study.