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Chem 201 - General Chemistry I - Thomas Gisel

Course:General Chemistry I
Professor:Thomas Gisel
Email:thomas.gisel@canyons.edu
Format:
  • InPerson
Course Length:
  • 12 Week
  • 16 Week

Introduction

Picture of Prof. Thomas Gisel outside

My name is Mr. Tom Gisel.  Like many of you, I started my education at a community college. I then transferred to UW-Madison to get my degrees in Biochemistry. Chemistry is important in our everyday lives, but also as a link between so many scientific fields.  After graduating, I worked for several years in various research labs before discovering my love of teaching Chemistry.  I’m excited to be your instructor in an online discovery of what matter is and how it relates to everyday life.

This course is the first semester of general chemistry.  We will develop our problem-solving skills while exploring the "central science."  I look forward to getting to know each of you and supporting you in achieving your academic goals.  

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me at thomas.gisel@canyons.edu

Course Description

Prerequisite: MATH-070 or higher math placement and CHEM-151, or MATH-070 or higher math placement and COC Chemistry Placement Exam

Provides a foundation in the basic principles of the molecular nature of matter and its change, including reaction chemistry, atomic and bonding theories of matter, the properties of matter (solids, liquids, gases, solutions) and their relationship to energy. Introduces gravimetric, volumetric, and spectroscopic analysis techniques in the laboratory portion. Required of all majors in chemistry and most other fields of science or technology. Honors work challenges students to be more analytical and creative through expanded assignments such as critical analyses of primary scientific literature, and enrichment opportunities which differentiate this course from CHEM-201. UC credit limitation: maximum credit, 5 units.

Student Learning Outcomes:

  1. Analyze chemical bonding and properties of materials using atomic theory.
  2. Solve chemical quantities using stoichiometric methods.
  3. Formulate conclusions according to scientific inquiry by collecting and interpreting gravimetric, volumetric, and spectroscopic data.
  4. Conduct experiments using computer software.

What to Expect in this Course

The expected time commitment for this 16-Week, 5 unit in-person class:

This class is held on campus and in person, not online as the last few semesters had been. 

  • Lecture: Mon. and Wed. 1:00 pm – 2:20 pm CCSC 118
  • Recitation: Mon. 2:30 pm - 3:20 pm   CCC 405
  • Lab: Wed. 2:30 pm - 5:35 pm   CCSC 402 
  • Additional Homework: 4- 6 hours a week
  • Total of approximately 15 hours per week  

Accessing the online course material: 

From a Desktop or Laptop Computer:

Please use either Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox to access the course. Do not use Safari, Internet Explorer or Edge. You can access the course in two ways:

Accessing Online Activities in Canvas from a Mobile Device: 

When accessing Canvas from mobile devices such as phones or tablets, please use the Canvas app. 

  • Follow these links to download the Canvas Student Mobile Apps: AndroidiOS
    • Please note that NOT all features of Canvas are available on the mobile app and some activities may be difficult to complete on a phone or tablet.

To access our Online Homework you will need to purchase a Aktiv Chemistry Online Learning Account. The class will utilize an online homework system. Students must create a Aktiv Chem account when registering or at https://www.101edu.co/ (Links to an external site.). The cost to join the course is $29.95 and can be purchased through the COC bookstore or through the online interface. Students can preview the course for two weeks prior to purchase.  You must register access through our canvas page. 

Types of Assessments

Exams:  There will be 2 exams during the semester. Exams will be given in class

Quizzes: There will be several quizzes given during the semester. 

Homework:  Homework assignments will be assigned for each chapter and may be completed on the Aktiv Chemistry platform.  Homework assignments will be the basis for quizzes.

Recitation Activities: It is important to share our learning experiences as a class.  As we study new topics, we can better internalize the concepts and master the material when we actively participate.  We will have several "in-class" activities as well as graded discussions and other group learning opportunities.  

Laboratory Assignments: Each week, according to the attached schedule.


 


 

Textbook Information

The Course Textbook is an open resource at the LibreText website: College of the Canyons General Chemistry I OER textbook; https://chem.libretexts.org/Courses/College_of_the_Canyons/Chem_201%3A_General_Chemistry_I_OER (Links to an external site.). Hardcopies will be available in the bookstore or can be ordered directly from LibreText.

Other Relevant Course Information

A more comprehensive and detailed description of the course information will be available on Canvas prior to the course start date.   Please contact me with any questions or concerns at thomas.gisel@canyons.edu

Email and announcements through Canvas are the primary method of communication for the class, so make sure you check your canvas notification settings to ensure prompt delivery.  https://community.canvaslms.com/docs/doc-10624


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: 08/04/2022 Sub#: 388