Chemistry Sss 1 (1st Term)

Chemistry for SSS 1 (1st Term): Course Description

The 1st Term Chemistry curriculum for Senior Secondary School 1 (SSS 1) introduces students to the fundamental principles of chemistry. This term's focus is on building a strong foundation in the basics of matter, chemical combinations, and the scientific methods used in chemistry. Students will develop essential skills such as writing chemical equations and understanding the mole concept, which are critical for success in more advanced topics. Below is a detailed overview of the topics covered:

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1. Introduction to Chemistry

• Definition and importance of chemistry in everyday life.
• Branches of chemistry and their applications (e.g., organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, and biochemistry).
• Laboratory safety rules and the proper handling of chemicals and equipment.

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2. Elements

• Definition of elements as pure substances consisting of only one type of atom.
• Classification of elements into metals, non-metals, and metalloids based on their properties.
• Examples of elements and their uses in daily life.

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3. Particulate Nature of Matter

• Understanding that matter is made up of tiny particles (atoms, molecules, and ions).
• States of matter: solid, liquid, and gas, and the changes between them (e.g., melting, boiling, sublimation).
• Evidence supporting the particulate nature of matter, such as diffusion and Brownian motion.

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4. Compounds/IUPAC Nomenclature

• Definition of compounds as substances formed from two or more elements chemically combined in fixed proportions.
• Differences between elements, compounds, and mixtures.
• Introduction to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) system for naming compounds, including simple examples like water (H₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and sodium chloride (NaCl).

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5. Mixtures

• Definition and types of mixtures: homogeneous (solutions) and heterogeneous mixtures.
• Methods of separating mixtures, such as filtration, distillation, evaporation, and chromatography.
• Practical examples of mixtures in everyday life (e.g., air, saltwater).

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6. Mole Concept

• Introduction to the mole as a standard unit for measuring the amount of substance.
• Avogadro’s number (6.022 × 10²³) and its significance.
• Calculations involving molar mass, number of moles, and number of particles.

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7. Writing Chemical Equations

• Understanding chemical symbols and formulae.
• Writing and balancing chemical equations to represent reactions accurately.
• Examples of common chemical reactions, such as combustion, neutralization, and precipitation reactions.

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Skills and Objectives

By the end of the 1st term, students will be able to:

1. Explain the importance and scope of chemistry.
2. Differentiate between elements, compounds, and mixtures.
3. Apply the mole concept in solving basic chemical problems.
4. Write and balance chemical equations effectively.
5. Understand the particulate nature of matter and its significance in explaining physical phenomena.

This term provides a strong foundational knowledge of chemistry, setting the stage for more advanced topics in subsequent terms.