CHEMISTRY I

Overview

In this course, students will study of the foundations of chemistry, building on the concepts and scientific thinking developed in middle school science. Students use scientific inquiry and higher-order problem solving as they explore the composition, properties, and changes of matter and their applications through interactive simulations, engineering solutions, and virtual and hands-on experiences. The scientific process is fully used and documented in lab investigations, giving students the skills they need to analyze data and make inferences about natural phenomena. In addition, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts are integrated throughout the course. Through phenomenon-based learning, students will be able to demonstrate a vast understanding of the importance of chemistry in the world, enabling them to apply these principles to their everyday lives and our global society.

Major Topics and Concepts

Segment One:

Learn about the mathematical skills and measurement systems used in chemistry
Interpret scientific data and explain relationships between variables based on data
Follow the scientific method to conduct various laboratory investigations
Explore the differences between all states of matter and the classification of matter
Differentiate between physical and chemical properties and changes in matter
Explore the development of the scientific model of atoms from investigations of the past
Use the model of the atom to understand subatomic particles and reading the periodic table
Read the periodic table and determine the general properties of elements, groups, and families
Utilize the periodic table as a fundamental tool for a variety of chemistry problems and applications
Write electron configurations and draw orbital notation models for atoms
Determine valence electrons and bonding properties of atoms
Read, write, interpret, and model chemical formulas for ionic and covalent bond
Compare the different intermolecular forces in compounds and model molecule structures
Apply the law of conservation of mass to balance chemical equations
Classify synthesis, decomposition, combustion, single and double replacement, and redox chemical reactions
Compare the fundamental forces and chemical and nuclear reactions

Segment Two:

Understand the use of the mole as a significant unit of measurement in chemistry applications
Determine mass, molar mass, and number of particles for elements and compounds
Use balanced chemical equations to determine mole ratios for stoichiometric calculations
Perform a variety of stoichiometric calculations, including percent yield and limiting reactants
Differentiate between the different forms of energy and the interaction between thermal energy and matter
Describe the properties and behavior of matter in relation to kinetic theory
Read, interpret, and construct heating and cooling curves
Learn about and apply various gas law relationships and the ideal gas law
Distinguish between endothermic and exothermic reactions and processes
Explore the concepts of enthalpy and potential energy diagrams for chemical reactions
Differentiate between open, closed, and isolated systems
Explore the various factors that affect the rate of chemical reactions and the concept of dynamic equilibrium
Apply Le Châtelier’s principle to predict the outcomes of stress on a reaction in equilibrium
Understand how the various properties of water make it suitable for processes on Earth
Perform molarity and dilution calculations
Compare and contrast acids and bases and calculate the pH or pOH of a solution