Organic Chemistry I Syllabus and Course Structure

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Organic Chemistry I: Course Syllabus and Structure

Course Overview

This course provides a foundational understanding of organic chemistry, focusing on the structure, properties, and reactions of organic molecules. Students will explore aliphatic and aromatic compounds, reaction mechanisms, stereochemistry, and the application of organic chemistry concepts to real-world problems.

Course Code: CHEM 301
Credits: 3
Schedule: Fall 2023, 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM, Temple 1169
Instructor: Dr. Katherine Belecki

Course Objectives

Develop a solid foundation in the concepts and structure of organic chemistry.
Understand bonding, hybridization, and molecular geometry of organic molecules.
Analyze reaction mechanisms, including nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and addition reactions.
Apply knowledge to solve problems involving synthesis, reactivity, and properties of organic compounds.
Enhance critical thinking, reading, and communication skills in organic chemistry.

Required Course Materials

Textbook: John McMurry's Organic Chemistry (various editions acceptable)
Online Homework: Achieve Learning account (instructions provided in course materials)
TopHat account: For in-class and online work

Recommended Course Materials

Wade, Organic Chemistry (7th, 8th, or 9th Edition)
Student Solutions Manual for Organic Chemistry
Molecular modeling kit

Tentative Course Schedule

The course is organized into weekly topics, each focusing on a major area of organic chemistry. Exams are scheduled throughout the semester to assess understanding.

Weeks	Topics	Textbook Chapters
1–4	Alcohol Synthesis, Reactions of Alcohols, Ethers and Epoxides	McMurry: Ch10, Ch11; Wade: Ch11, Ch14
5–8	Conjugated Compounds/UV, Benzene and Aromaticity, Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution	McMurry: Ch14, Ch15, Ch16; Wade: Ch15, Ch16, Ch17
9–11	Aldehydes and Ketones, Carboxylic Acid Derivatives	McMurry: Ch17, Ch18; Wade: Ch18, Ch19, Ch20
12–14	Alpha-Carbon Chemistry, Condensation Reactions, Carboxylic Acids	McMurry: Ch22, Ch20; Wade: Ch22, Ch21, Ch20
15	Final Exam and Review	–

Assessment and Grading

Participation: 10%
Graded Homework (Achieve): 15%
Quizzes: 15%
Exams (3): 40%
Final Exam: 20%

Grade	Scale
A	90–100%
B	80–89%
C	70–79%
D	60–69%
F	Less than 60%

Key Policies and Resources

Attendance: Regular attendance and punctuality are expected.
Classroom Etiquette: Respectful behavior and academic integrity are required.
Mobile Devices: Should be silenced and only used for class-related activities.
Discussion Boards: Available for questions and peer interaction via Canvas.
PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions): Weekly sessions for additional support.
Exams: Four exams (including the final); lowest quiz grade dropped; no make-up quizzes.
Online Homework: Assigned via Achieve; registration required.
Course Website: Canvas for announcements, assignments, and resources.

Important Dates

Final Exam: Tuesday, Dec 16, 8:00–10:50 AM
Refer to the academic calendar for other key dates: VCU Academic Calendar

Additional Information

Students are encouraged to use molecular model kits for visualizing structures.
Support services are available for students with disabilities and those needing academic assistance.
Withdrawal, technology, and library resources are accessible via university links provided in the syllabus.

Summary Table: Weekly Topics and Chapters

Week	Main Topic	McMurry Chapters	Wade Chapters
1–4	Alcohols, Ethers, Epoxides	Ch10, Ch11	Ch11, Ch14
5–8	Aromatic Compounds	Ch14, Ch15, Ch16	Ch15, Ch16, Ch17
9–11	Aldehydes, Ketones, Carboxylic Acid Derivatives	Ch17, Ch18	Ch18, Ch19, Ch20
12–14	Alpha-Carbon Chemistry, Carboxylic Acids	Ch22, Ch20	Ch22, Ch21, Ch20

Course Expectations

Students should expect to spend 9–12 hours per week on coursework outside of class.
Active participation, timely completion of assignments, and engagement with course resources are essential for success.

Support and Success

PASS sessions, discussion boards, and instructor office hours are available for additional help.
Students are encouraged to collaborate, seek clarification, and utilize all available resources to master organic chemistry concepts.