CHEM-151 - CHEM 151 Preparatory General Chemistry - Shadi Moghaddas

Introduction

My name is Shadi Moghaddas, and I am a research scientist with a deep passion for teaching science—a journey I began in 2015 at both the high school and university/college levels. I hold a PhD in bioinorganic chemistry from Kent State University, and my current research focuses on the preclinical studies of platinum and other metal pyrophosphate compounds, particularly their synergistic effects with CBD in treating various human cancers.

Beyond the lab, I am deeply committed to education. My teaching approach emphasizes hands-on learning, problem-solving, and inspiring students from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in STEM. I take great pride in mentoring young women and men, encouraging them to break barriers and excel in their respective fields. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of teaching a wide range of science subjects to both science and non-science majors. These diverse experiences have shaped my teaching philosophy, reinforcing my commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment that empowers students to succeed in STEM. Teaching brings me immense joy, and I continuously strive to grow as both an educator and a scientist. I hope this class not only enriches your understanding but also contributes to my own growth as we explore the exciting future of science together.

Course Description

Welcome to Chem 151 Preparatory General Chemistry– a 4.0-unit CSU and UC transferable course designed as a one-semester preparatory class for CHEM 201. This course provides a thorough foundation in problem-solving, atomic theory, stoichiometry, nomenclature, states of matter, and solution chemistry. The laboratory component reinforces these principles and introduces students to the proper handling and use of scientific equipment. 
Transferability:

• UC, CSU transferable
• UC Credit Limitation: Chem 110 and 151 combined, maximum credit, one course.
Prerequisite: • Math 060, or its equivalent as determined by the COC Assessment Center.
 

Student Learning Objectives:
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
1. Analyze chemical problems and chemical reactions using stoichiometric methods.
2. Examine the forms and states of matter, the structure of the atom, the arrangement of
electrons, and how these relate to the organization of the periodic table.
3. Differentiate between the essential features of covalent and ionic bonding.
4. Investigate chemical reactions using chemicals, scientific glassware, and instruments in a
precise, accurate, and safe manner.
5. Analyze chemical data, including graphical manipulation, and draw meaningful
conclusions based on the results.

What to Expect in this Course

The expected time commitment for this 8-Week, 4 unit online for the lecture portion of the class and laboratory class is held on campus and in person.

• Lecture (online): online and assignments, exams and all related lectures will be provided for your perusal.
• Lab (in person and on campus)

Course Format: Asynchronous Lectures with In-Person Laboratory Sessions
Chemistry 151 combines the flexibility of asynchronous online lectures with the essential hands-on experience of in-person laboratory sessions.
Asynchronous Lectures
The lecture portion of the course will be delivered asynchronously, allowing you to engage with the material at your own pace within the given weekly deadlines. This format provides flexibility while ensuring that you stay on track with the course schedule. Each week, you will have access to:

• Pre-recorded video lectures: Covering key concepts such as atomic theory, stoichiometry, nomenclature, and more. You are encouraged to watch these videos in full
and take notes as they will serve as the foundation for quizzes, discussions, and exams.

• Reading assignments and supplementary materials: These will be posted on the course platform (CANVAS) to deepen your understanding of the topics.
• Discussion forums: You will be expected to participate in weekly discussion boards where you can ask questions, share insights, and engage in discussions with your peers.
• Weekly quizzes: Designed to assess your comprehension of the lecture material and keep you actively engaged in the content.

Although the lectures are asynchronous, it is critical to stay on top of the weekly topics and deadlines to ensure a smooth progression through the course. Regular engagement with the material will also prepare you for the in-person laboratory component.
 

In-Person Laboratory Sessions
The laboratory section of this course will meet in person on : During these sessions, you will apply the concepts learned in the lectures through hands-on experiments and the use of scientific instruments.

• Lab safety training: Before beginning any experiments, students will undergo a safety briefing to ensure proper handling of chemicals and equipment.
• Experimentation and data collection: You will conduct experiments related to topics such as chemical reactions, bonding, and states of matter. Precision and accuracy in data
collection will be emphasized.
• Lab reports: After each experiment, you will be required to submit a lab report analyzing your findings as instructed in Chem 151 Laboratory manual provided on
canvas. This report will include observations, data analysis (including graphs when necessary), and conclusions based on your results.
A typical and suggested Regiment for a Weekly Study Schedule Example:

• Monday-Thursday: Watch lecture videos, complete assigned readings, and participate
• in online discussions. 
• Friday: Completed all assigned assignments and uploaded onto canvas on its respective due dates.
• Monday and Wednesday: Attend in-person lab sessions to carry out experiments and submit completed lab reports. 
• Sunday: Complete weekly quiz based on lecture material and/or lab exercises.

This format blends flexibility with hands-on experience, ensuring you not only understand the
theoretical aspects of chemistry but also develop practical skills crucial for success in advanced chemistry courses.

This format blends flexibility with hands-on experience, ensuring you not only understand the
theoretical aspects of chemistry but also develop practical skills crucial for success in advanced chemistry courses.

I am always available on zoom (by appointment) or during lab sessions (in-person, before and after class time) for answering questions and providing extra assistance to aid you in your success.
 

Scientific calculator: Please see me so I can assist you to have the proper calculator that is appropriate for the course. NO graphing or programmable calculators should be used and Black/Blue Pen for our lab sessions. 

Types of Assessments

Lecture: All assessments will be completed online on either through Canvas quizzes or Quizizz app (https://quizizz.com/) (all will be provided with designated links) or scheduled in person tests (time permitting).

Lab: All assessments will be provided in person during lab sessions on paper and handwritten.

All assignments AND Lab Reports are to be hand-written and uploaded on CANVAS as a single pdf file. 

Textbook Information

Our textbook is: College of the Canyons Chem 151: Preparatory General Chemistry OER: https://chem.libretexts.org/Courses/College_of_the_Canyons/Chem_151%3A_Preparato
ry General Chemistry OER  (Links to an external site.)

Hard copies are available at the bookstore or can be ordered through LibreText if desired. Additionally, students will be able to access OER textbook and lab manual in Canvas Modules.

Other course material required for Chem 151–PGC Scientific calculator (nothing fancy but functional), Goggles must be the full splash-proof goggles, sold in the bookstore (ANSI Z87.1B).

Other Relevant Course Information

Canvas
This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com.
Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:
• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password
Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.
Online Education
Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.
The Learning Center (TLC) The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 03/05/2025 Sub#: 1854