Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2023 - CHEM 399 D100

Special Topics in Chemistry and Society (3)

The Chemistry of Daily Life

Class Number: 4459

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 6 – Oct 6, 2023: Tue, Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 11 – Dec 5, 2023: Tue, Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    A minimum of 45 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Selected topics in chemistry and its role in broader society, with an emphasis on using chemistry to solve technological, environmental and economic challenges. Intended for non-science students. Faculty of Science students may take this course as an elective, but may not apply this course toward their upper division program requirements. Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

Chemistry in Your Everyday Life

This offering of CHEM 399 will focus on the chemistry of consumer products and environmental issues. Students will gain a broad perspective on chemical processes with historical, environmental and economic importance in shaping society. Contrary to popular belief, not all chemicals are harmful and through this course, students will examine the beneficial and harmful aspects of the commonly used chemicals and will gain a basic understanding of chemistry, in order to critically evaluate the role of chemistry in society.

Grading

  • Introductory Paper 5%
  • Chemistry in the News 15%
  • Midterm Project 25%
  • Presentation/Project 20%
  • Final Exam Paper 35%

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

A grade of C- or better is required for all prerequisite courses.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.