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Chem 11620 Lab Overview

Aug 29, 2025

Overview

This lecture introduces Chem 11620 lab procedures, course requirements, resources, and policies related to attendance, assignments, and lab safety.

Course Structure and Resources

  • Labs and lectures are now split into separate courses.
  • Must enroll in the lecture course if taking the lab; can't take lab alone.
  • General Chemistry Office in Brown 1144 provides non-chemistry support.
  • Use [email protected] for course-related questions.
  • Course materials, assignments, and announcements are on Brightspace and Labflow.
  • Weekly instructional videos will be provided to help prepare for labs.

Syllabus and Assignments

  • Download and read the 18-page syllabus via Brightspace for details.
  • Weekly assignments include prelab quizzes (due day before lab) and postlab reports (due day of lab).
  • All assignments are submitted through Labflow.
  • Prelab quizzes ensure understanding of manuals, procedures, and relevant concepts; no makeups, but lowest prelab quiz is dropped.
  • Prelab quizzes include two questions on lab procedure, equipment, safety, and waste disposal.
  • Reports grant two points for attendance; must complete and submit by 11:59 p.m. Lab reports have two submission attempts.
  • Collaboration in understanding is allowed but copying is prohibited; all work must be individual.

Attendance and Absence Policy

  • Attendance is required; only excused absences (via ODOS) grant makeup assignments.
  • One unexcused absence per semester allows a makeup if requested before lab start time.
  • If you miss lab or don't submit required materials, you get one dropped lab at semester's end.
  • Must complete at least 9 out of 10 experiments to pass the course.

Grading and Help

  • Lowest prelab quiz and lowest report grades are dropped.
  • Total of 375 points in the course; 15 points from first two weeks.
  • Office hours are available with any TA for extra help.
  • Academic integrity is required; follow Purdue's honor pledge.

Safety and Required Materials

  • Safety quiz (need 20/25 correct) must be passed to participate in labs.
  • Required materials: textbook, Office 365 (Excel), and a calculator.
  • Dress code: cover from clavicle to toes, including ankles.

Lab Preparation and First Week Tasks

  • Meet your TA and lab partners during the first lab session.
  • Complete the lab safety quiz and in-lab safety assignment.
  • Review Excel skills, as it’s required for lab activities.
  • Bring a laptop, tablet, or smartphone to lab.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Brightspace (Brightpace) β€” Online course management system for announcements, content, and assignments.
  • Labflow β€” Platform for accessing and submitting lab assignments and resources.
  • ODOS (Office of the Dean of Students) β€” Office for handling excused absences.
  • Prelab Quiz β€” Assessment to prepare for lab work, due before lab session.
  • Postlab Report β€” Assignment summarizing lab results, due the same day as the lab.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Download and review the full syllabus from Brightspace.
  • Complete the lab safety quiz before your first lab session.
  • Attend the first lab, meet your TA and lab partners, and participate in the safety review.
  • Prepare your device (laptop/tablet/smartphone) for use in the lab.
  • Review Excel basics as it will be used in lab activities.