This introductory chemistry course covers atomic structure, periodic trends, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, equilibrium, and acid–base chemistry. It provides the essential foundation for advanced study and equips future teachers with the scientific knowledge needed to teach core chemical concepts effectively.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Apply stoichiometry to balance equations and determine reaction outcomes.
- Explain atomic structure and periodic properties of elements.
- Analyze chemical equilibrium in solution.
- Calculate and interpret pH in acid–base systems.
Required Materials
Laboratory Equipment & Glassware
- Beakers (100–1000 mL), conical flasks, graduated cylinders
- Test tubes, test tube racks, droppers, pipettes, burettes, funnels
- Thermometers, manometers, barometers
Chemicals & Reagents (Basic Set)
- Acids: HCl, H2SO4, HNO3 (dilute for safety)
- Bases: NaOH, KOH, NH4OH
- Salts: NaCl, KNO3, CuSO4, Na2CO3, CaCO3
- Indicators: phenolphthalein, methyl orange, litmus
- Solvents: distilled water, ethanol.
ICT & Digital Learning Tools
- Computer + projector for simulations and visualizations
- Interactive Simulations (University of Colorado Boulder – free online) for:
- Gas laws
- Atomic structure
- Acid-base reactions
- Molecular bonding
- Online periodic table resources (e.g., Royal Society of Chemistry, periodic-table.org)
Books and References
- General Chemistry (Free PDF & Web) – Rice University.
Covers general chemistry topics: atomic structure, stoichiometry, bonding, gases, solutions.
OpenStax Chemistry 2e
- ChemLibreTexts (General Chemistry) – University of California, Davis.
Comprehensive online modules for all topics listed (gas laws, thermodynamics, bonding, etc.) (ChemLibreTexts Chemistry)
- Khan Academy – Chemistry (Free video lessons + practice).
Great for visual explanations and exercises. (Khan Academy Chemistry)