This is a core module for progression to chemistry degree courses. The module introduces various bonding models including the structure and bonding of inorganic solids. Trends in the periodic table are illustrated by coverage of the chemistry of Group 1, 13 and 17 elements. The module introduces you to atmospheric and aquatic pollution and goes on to cover the impact of pollutants on the environment.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Two concurrent series of lectures (22 each) will be used to deliver the core material. These will be supported by workshops. The workshops will supplement and illustrate the current lecture material in addition to providing the students with an opportunity to clarify any aspects of the topics being taught. The workshops will also be used to develop the students' skills in solving relevant numerical problems and tackling exam style problems. The workshops will also provide opportunities for student to get feedback from staff on their progress. The practical sessions will provide guidance and experience of following written experimental procedures and help students consolidate their practical skills.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | 44 one-hour lectures 22 one-hour workshops 12 two-hour of practical sessions | 90 |
| Guided independent study | Recommended reading Formative assessment Summative assessment tasks Exam revision | 210 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Practical performance will be assessed by evaluation of the quality of samples and data obtained, which are submitted in class at the end of the practical session, these components will make up the practical work portfolio. In addition, students will write two full laboratory reports. The first report will only be formatively assessed so that students get relevant feedback on their report writing to act as feed forward for their summatively assessed full laboratory report. The full laboratory report on an environmental chemistry experiment will include questions related to environmental pollution. An assignment, designed to prepare students for exam-type questions will be set as a formative assessment. Overall the summative coursework will be made up of one full laboratory report with additional questions and a portfolio of assessment of practical work (quality of samples and data submitted at the end of the class).
An end of module examination (3 hours) will test students' knowledge of inorganic and environmental chemistry and their ability to solve chemistry-related problems. The 3-hour exam will require students to do MCQ and longer questions.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| Identify and explain the bonding, shape and reactivity of inorganic molecules, complexes and solids. | Formative assessment opportunities will be provided via problems set in workshops and a formative assignment. This will be summatively assessed by the examination paper. |
| Solve numerical problems related to inorganic and environmental chemistry. | Formative assessment opportunities will be provided via problems set in workshops. This will be assessed by the examination paper. |
| Describe the chemical and physical processes that occur after the release of chemicals into the environment. | This will be assessed by a question in the full laboratory report coursework element and/or a section of the examination paper. |
| Discuss the environmental consequences of the release of chemical species and potential solutions to environmental pollution. | This will be assessed by a question in the full laboratory report coursework and/or a section of the examination paper. |
| Execute and report laboratory procedures according to given protocols. | Practical work will be assessed by short laboratory forms and quality of data and samples produced. Students will also be asked to write two full laboratory reports; the first will be only formatively assessed and used to give feedback on how to improve report writing. The second full laboratory will be summatively assessed. |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Written exam | Written exam | 60% |
| Practical work portfolio | Coursework | 20% |
| Full practical report | Coursework | 20% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.