General Chemistry I - Instructor Intro Notes

Canvas Page and Course Overview

  • Canvas page adjusting; syllabus in “Important class documents.”

  • Course: General Chemistry I, taught by Mr. Phoenix Scottard/Spencer.

  • Instructor has undergrad/master’s in chemistry (no PhD) from MacPherson.

  • Students should state name and class section when communicating.

Instructor and Communication

  • Instructors: Mr. Phoenix Scottard and Mr. Spencer.

  • Background: MacPherson chemistry (undergrad/master’s).

  • Large class: students should identify themselves for smooth communication.

Office Hours and Contact

  • On-campus office: Kirkland 223 A.

  • Regular office hours: Monday and Friday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

  • Can email for alternate times; instructor willing to accommodate.

Recitation Sessions (Thursdays)

  • 1-hour recitation on Thursdays, ends around 3:00 PM; classroom to be announced.

  • Purpose: extra problem practice for exams.

  • Attendance improves performance; starts this Thursday.

Textbook and Materials

  • Fourth edition of textbook required due to publisher change (Adams and Logan’s Approach).

  • Homework code needed (approx. 4040).

  • Options: buy book + code, code alone, or book alone (code essential for homework).

  • Third edition can be used for learning, but no homework access.

  • Book is not mandatory, but recommended for multiple learning sources.

Study Philosophy and Learning Approach

  • Chemistry is like a sport: consistent practice (reviewing notes, PowerPoints, worksheets, textbook) is key for exams.

  • Use multiple sources (voice, PowerPoints, textbook, videos) for memory retention.

  • Early material is foundational; active participation in lectures is encouraged.

Required Tools and Materials

  • Calculator needed (e.g., TI-30X series, ~$20).

  • Homework access link on Canvas; sign-up email to follow.

  • Bring notebook/tablet for notes; class includes PowerPoints and board work.

  • Supplemental Canvas videos (cover ~30%30\% of material; in-class ~70%70\%).

Homework, Exams, and Grading Structure

  • Exams: Three unit exams (20-30 multiple-choice questions).

  • Each unit exam: 15%15\% of final grade (45%45\% total).

  • Labs: Start week of September 8.

  • Homework: Due dates align with exam dates (Ch. 1-3).

  • Classwork: Mix of lectures, board problems, diagrams.

Class Materials Access and Additional Resources

  • Videos supplement in-class topics; not all class material is covered in videos.

  • Rely primarily on in-class attendance.

Group Communication and Collaboration

  • GroupMe (or similar) channel for all sections (optional).

  • Use for: sharing notes if class missed, homework announcements, general notifications.

Important Reminders and Tips

  • Identify yourself (name/section) when contacting instructor.

  • Engage: attend lectures, recitation; use all resources.

  • Practice for exams; budget ~$40 for homework code.

  • Labs start week of September 8; monitor recitation room.

Quick Reference: Key Dates and Details

  • Office hours: M/F, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Kirkland 223 A.

  • Recitation: Thursdays, 1 hr, ends ~3 PM; room TBD; starts this Thursday.

  • Labs begin: Week of September 8.

  • Exams: Three unit exams; 15%15\% each; 20-30 questions.

  • Homework: Due with corresponding chapters/exams.

  • Textbook: Adams and Logan’s Approach, 4th Edition; homework code (~4040) required.