2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

CHEM1403 Practical and Research Skills for Chemistry and Maths

10 creditsClass Size: 50

Module manager: Dr Stephen Gorman
Email: s.a.gorman@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Pre-requisite qualifications

A Level Chemistry and Maths or equivalent, or registration on appropriate programme

Module replaces

CHEM1421 Practical Skills in Chemistry for Joint Honours 1 (in part)

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

Students will develop practical skills in the teaching labs, undertaking a range of experiments which they then present as scientific reports in different formats. Students will also develop data analysis and other transferable skills.

Objectives

To introduce students to the chemistry laboratory and equipment and to develop appropriate IT, data analysis and other transferable skills. On completion of this module students will have:

- undertaken a selection of experiments in the organic, inorganic and physical chemistry laboratories appropriate to level 1 Chemistry and to the general development of good laboratory technique, and presented their results;.
- developed data analysis, mathematical and data analysis skills via worked examples and take-home exercises;
- developed a basic understanding of scientific ethics;
- developed basic coding skills via worked examples;

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes :
1. Carry out a wide range of practical experiments that produce organic and inorganic compounds, and gain foundational skills in synthetic chemistry.
2. Perform basic quantitative analysis and monitor and measure chemical properties and changes using simple instrumentation. Record, process and present simple experimental results.
3. Interpret and follow risk assessments relating to low risk practical activities, enacting safe working practices and waste disposal.
4. Perform basic algebraic manipulations and calculations, including applications of logarithms and exponents. Apply the principles of differentiation and integration to basic examples, including finding solutions to basic (1D) differential equations. Demonstrate competence in unit conversions and appropriate use of significant figures.
5. Apply statistical methods to analyse and interpret experimental data. Select appropriate graphical representations of data. Demonstrate an awareness of experimental limitations and uncertainties. Perform calculations to propagate experimental uncertainties.

Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills
A. Communicate effectively using written presentation methods
B. Organize independent study time and meet deadlines
C. Choose between alternative approaches in a lab-based scenario. Critically analyze own data in lab-based scenario

Syllabus

1. Introduction to the chemistry laboratory and equipment and to safe working practices
2. a selection of experiments in the synthetic and analytical teaching laboratory appropriate to level 1 Chemistry and to the general development of good laboratory technique
3. a selection of experiments in the physical and measurement teaching laboratory appropriate to level 1 Chemistry and to the general development of good laboratory technique
4. instruction and exercises to develop appropriate IT, mathematical and data analysis skills including python coding.
5. introduction to record keeping, the presentation of experimental results and academic and scientific integrity
6. ethical expectations of scientists and of the value of critical thinking in distinguishing science and pseudoscience.

Methods of Assessment

We are currently refreshing our modules to make sure students have the best possible experience. Full assessment details for this module are not available before the start of the academic year, at which time details of the assessment(s) will be provided.

Assessment for this module will consist of;

1 x Practical pre-labs, reports and in-lab assessments
1 x OTLA

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Laboratory	8	3.00	24.00
Practical (computer based)	2	2.00	4.00
Lecture	4	1.00	4.00
Independent online learning hours			8.00
Private study hours			60.00
Total Contact hours			32.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			100.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Experimental laboratory reports marked regular throughout semesters 1 and 2.
Completion of computer-based assignments at intervals.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 30/04/2024

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