High School Chemistry: Exploring Matter and Its Transformations

This High School Chemistry course provides a foundational understanding of the structure of matter, chemical reactions, and energy changes. Designed for students at all levels, it combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiments, fostering a deep appreciation for the role of chemistry in everyday life and scientific advancements.

Introduction

• Overview of Chemistry and Its Importance
• The Scientific Method in Chemistry
• Lab Safety and Best Practices

Module 1: Matter and Its Properties

• States of Matter: Solid, Liquid, Gas, and Plasma
• Classification of Matter: Elements, Compounds, and Mixtures
• Physical vs. Chemical Properties
• Changes in Matter: Physical and Chemical Changes

Module 2: Atomic Structure

• History of the Atom: Dalton, Thomson, Rutherford, and Bohr Models
• Subatomic Particles: Protons, Neutrons, and Electrons
• Atomic Number, Mass Number, and Isotopes
• Electron Configuration and the Quantum Model

Module 3: The Periodic Table

• Development and Organization of the Periodic Table
• Periodic Trends: Atomic Radius, Ionization Energy, Electronegativity
• Groups and Periods: Alkali Metals, Halogens, Noble Gases
• Transition Metals and Their Properties

Module 4: Chemical Bonding

• Types of Bonds: Ionic, Covalent, and Metallic
• Lewis Dot Structures and VSEPR Theory
• Polarity and Intermolecular Forces
• Properties of Ionic and Molecular Compounds

Module 5: Chemical Reactions

• Writing and Balancing Chemical Equations
• Types of Chemical Reactions: Synthesis, Decomposition, Single and Double Replacement, Combustion
• Energy Changes in Reactions: Endothermic vs. Exothermic
• The Law of Conservation of Mass

Module 6: Stoichiometry

• Mole Concept and Avogadro’s Number
• Molar Mass and Its Applications
• Converting Between Moles, Mass, and Particles
• Stoichiometric Calculations in Chemical Reactions

Module 7: States of Matter and Gas Laws

• Kinetic Molecular Theory
• Behavior of Gases: Boyle’s, Charles’s, and Ideal Gas Laws
• Properties of Liquids and Solids
• Phase Changes and Diagrams

Module 8: Solutions and Mixtures

• Solubility and Factors Affecting It
• Concentration Measurements: Molarity and Percent Composition
• Acids, Bases, and pH Scale
• Neutralization Reactions and Titrations

Module 9: Thermochemistry

• Energy and Heat in Chemical Processes
• Exothermic and Endothermic Reactions
• Calorimetry and Measuring Heat Transfer
• Enthalpy, Entropy, and Free Energy

Module 10: Introduction to Organic Chemistry

• Basics of Hydrocarbons: Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes
• Functional Groups and Their Properties
• Polymers and Everyday Applications
• Environmental Impact of Organic Chemistry

Interactive Activities and Assessments

• Lab Experiments: Investigating Chemical Reactions, Creating Solutions, and Titration Techniques
• Virtual Simulations: Periodic Table Trends and Molecular Geometry
• Quizzes and Unit Assessments
• Final Project: Creating a Chemistry Lab Notebook

Learning Outcomes

By completing this course, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of matter and atomic structure.
2. Predict chemical behavior using the periodic table.
3. Balance chemical equations and perform stoichiometric calculations.
4. Understand the principles behind solutions, reactions, and energy changes.