Course Syllabus
Draft Syllabus |
| Semester & Location: |
Fall 2025 - DIS Copenhagen/Stockholm |
| Type & Credits: |
Elective Course - 3 credits |
| Major Disciplines: |
Chemistry |
| Prerequisite(s): |
|
| Faculty Members: |
TBD |
| Program Director: |
Natalia Landázuri Sáenz, PhD |
| Academic Support: |
CE@dis.dk |
| Time & Place: |
TBD |
Course Description
This course delves into fundamental concepts and theories within the field of chemistry. These include atoms and atomic structure, molecules and compounds, chemical bonding and intermolecular forces, and states of matter. Students will also explore the principles of chemical reactions and thermodynamics, gaining a foundation in both qualitative and quantitative analysis. Through a combination of lectures and problem-solving exercises, students will develop an understanding of how chemical principles apply to real-world scenarios.
This course covers the following modules:
1. Atomic theory
Electromagnetic radiation and matter
The hydrogen atom
Electron configurations
Periodic properties
2. Bonding
Ionic compounds
Covalent compounds
Lewis Dot structure
Polar bonds
Bond theory
3. Intermolecular forces
Dipole-dipole
Hydrogen bonding
Dispersion forces
4. States of matter
Properties of liquids
Properties of solids
Properties of gases, including ideal gas law, kinetic molecular theory and gas models
5. Principles of thermodynamics
First and second laws of thermodynamics
Heat and enthalpy
Thermochemistry
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing the course, the students will be able to:
- Understand, apply and communicate scientific concepts covered in this course
- Be able to explain how fundamental chemical concepts relate to empirical data
- Be able to use models to predict chemical changes
- Critically examine complex problems that can be explained by chemical principles
Faculty
TBA
Readings
Field Studies
We will have two course-integrated field studies to learn how to apply the foundational concepts of chemistry in academic research and industry work.
Field studies may include:
Visit to Amager Bryghus (Copenhagen)
Visit to Tekniska Museet (Stockholm)
Guest Lecturers
Guest lecturers may be invited to talk about topics of particular interest to students.
Approach to Teaching
The course consists of interactive lectures, class exercises, and problem-solving. Discussion of applications is included, especially during field studies.
DIS Accommodations Statement
Your learning experience in this class is important to me. If you have approved academic accommodations with DIS, please make sure I receive your DIS accommodations letter within two weeks from the start of classes. If you can think of other ways I can support your learning, please don't hesitate to talk to me. If you have any further questions about your academic accommodations, contact Academic Support acadsupp@dis.dk.
Expectations of the Students
- You should participate actively during lectures, discussions, group work, and exercises.
- Laptops may be used for note‐taking, fact‐checking, or assignments in the classroom, but only when indicated by the instructor. At all other times, laptops and electronic devices should be put away during class meetings.
- Readings must be done prior to the class session.
- In addition to completing all assignments and exams, you need to be present, arrive on time, and actively participate in all classes and field studies to receive full credit. Your final grade will be affected, adversely, by unexcused absences and lack of participation. Your participation grade will be reduced by 10 points (over 100) for every unexcused absence. Remember to be in class on time!
- Classroom etiquette includes being respectful of other opinions, listening to others and entering a dialogue in a constructive manner.
- You are expected to ask relevant questions in regards to the material covered.
- Excuses for any emergency absences must be given beforehand. It is the responsibility of the student to make up any missed coursework.
Evaluation
To be eligible for a passing grade in this class, all of the assigned work must be completed.
You are expected to turn in all assignments on the due date. If an assignment is turned in after the due date, your assignment grade will be reduced by 10 points (over 100) for each day the submission is late.
Grading
Active participation: Includes attendance, preparation for lectures and other sessions, active participation in learning activities, class discussions, group work and problem solving. It also includes active participation during field studies and presentation of reflections on how they are related and relevant within the context of the course.
Assignments: Homework problems will be posted on Canvas. Students are allowed to work in groups to complete their homework. A pdf scan or clear photo of their work must be submitted on Canvas. Late submissions of homework will be deducted by 10 points for each day the homework is late.
Quizzes and partial exams: Short exams that cover specific modules of the course.
Exam: At the end of the semester, you will take an exam that covers all topics from the course.
| Active participation |
10% |
|
Assignments |
30% |
| Quizzes and partial exams (4-6) |
40% |
|
Final exam |
20% |
Academic Regulations
Please make sure to read the Academic Regulations on the DIS website. There you will find regulations on:
DIS - Study Abroad in Scandinavia - www.DISabroad.org