Course overview
The knowledge and skills acquired in Foundations of Chemistry IA provide a strong foundation for future studies in chemistry and chemistry-related fields, including biological and environmental sciences, healthcare and engineering. Whether pursuing careers in research or industry, students will gain the necessary tools to excel and make valuable contributions in their chosen paths.
Foundations of Chemistry IA is designed for students seeking a solid foundation in chemistry, whether they are pursuing it as a core requirement or a general elective. It welcomes students from various academic programs who are eager to develop a solid grasp of chemical concepts and their real-world applications. The course content is designed for students with limited background in chemistry.
Upon successful completion of Foundations of Chemistry IA, students will be able to identify different states of matter, trends of the periodic table, and molecular shape, and draw conclusions about physical and chemical properties. Students will be able to perform basic chemical calculations and balance chemical equations. In addition, they will develop an understanding of acids and bases and chemical equilibrium and their importance in various scientific fields.
Face-to-face on-campus delivery provides opportunities for interactive lectures, hands-on laboratory experiments, and engaging discussions. Students will explore scientific methodology and collaborative work, develop critical thinking skills and enhance their problem-solving abilities. In the laboratory, they will gain proficiency in common chemistry techniques and reinforce theoretical concepts. Assessment activities may include quizzes, laboratory reports, assignments, and examinations. By successfully completing these assessments, students will demonstrate their ability to apply chemical concepts to real-world scenarios and solve problems.
Course learning outcomes
- Develop critical thinking and enhance their problem solving ability
- Discuss the processes of scientific methodology and collaborative work
- Recognise the different states of matter, the physical properties and processes associated with each and the differences between elements, compounds and mixtures
- Recognise the different groupings of elements within the periodic table
- Perform basic chemical calculations and balance chemical equations
- Identify the different shapes of molecules and how this relates to the forces acting between them
- Explain what acids and bases are and know how to measure acidity and basicity
- Define and explain the concept of chemical equilibrium and how it reacts to changes in reaction conditions
- Demonstrate proficiency in common chemistry laboratory techniques