ES 4: General Chemistry

Course Description: Empirical Science 4: General Chemistry. Using Novare's book of the same name, this Chemistry course reflects the general approach of Novare, highlighting integration, mastery, wonder, lab work, and a streamlined scope.

Chapters include: What is Chemistry All About, Measurements, Atoms & Substances, Atomic Structure, Periodic Law, Chemical Bonding, Molecular Theory and Metallic Bonding, Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry, Kinetic Theory and States of Matter, Gas Laws, Solution Chemistry, Acids and Bases, and Redox Chemistry.

The primary goal of the course is to elevate the students to a real mastery of the method and established concepts of chemistry. A secondary goal is to imbue the students with the attitudes of the true scientist: wonder, curiosity, humility, and to relish truth. This is taught most fully through the example of the instructor. Finally, a last goal is to clearly present the limits of empirical science, so that the students are prepared to grasp how it fits into the larger schema of wisdom presented in the TPT course sequence.