Chemistry

SCH3U dives into the foundational principles of chemistry, equipping students with the tools to understand matter and its interactions.

Topics include

• Atomic theory
• Bonding
• chemical reactions
• Stoichiometry
• Solutions
• Gases.

Through engaging labs and problem-solving, students develop scientific investigation skills and apply their knowledge to real-world environmental and industrial contexts. This course prepares students for advanced studies in science, health, and engineering fields.

Unit 1: Matter and Chemical Bonding
Students explore the nature of matter and how atoms bond to form compounds.
Lessons include:

• Classification of Matter
• Atomic Structure and Theory
• The Periodic Table
• Types of Chemical Bonds
• Molecular Geometry
• Intermolecular Forces

Unit 2: Chemical Reactions
This unit introduces different reaction types and emphasizes balancing and safety.
Lessons include:

• Types of Chemical Reactions
• Balancing Chemical Equations
• The Activity Series
• Reactions in Everyday Life
• Safety in Chemical Handling

Unit 3: Quantities in Chemical Reactions
Students perform mole-based calculations and investigate quantitative relationships.
Lessons include:

• The Mole Concept
• Molar Mass and Avogadro’s Number
• Empirical and Molecular Formulas
• Percent Composition
• Stoichiometry and Limiting Reactants
• Yield and Efficiency

Unit 4: Solutions and Solubility
This unit covers the properties and concentration of solutions.
Lessons include:

• Types of Solutions and Solubility Curves
• Concentration Calculations (mol/L, %W/V, ppm)
• Preparing Solutions and Dilutions
• Reactions in Aqueous Solutions
• Net Ionic Equations

Unit 5: Gases and Atmospheric Chemistry
Students examine the behavior of gases and their impact on the environment.
Lessons include:

• Properties of Gases and the Kinetic Molecular Theory
• Boyle’s, Charles’s, and the Combined Gas Laws
• Ideal Gas Law
• Gas Stoichiometry
• Environmental Applications (e.g., Greenhouse Gases, Ozone Depletion)

• 70% of the final grade is based on coursework, including
  • Lab reports, quizzes, problem sets
  • Assignments on bonding, stoichiometry, and gas laws
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating lab or chemistry research project
  • 20% Final exam covering all five units

All assessments follow the Ontario curriculum and aim to foster analytical thinking, lab competence, and scientific literacy in chemistry.