INU0117 : Foundation Chemistry
INU0117 : Foundation Chemistry
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Tanya Morgan
- Co-Module Leader: Mr Keith Howlett
- Lecturer: Mrs Kyra Brady
- Owning School: INTO Newcastle University
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
None
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
None
Aims
To introduce students to key concepts and subject content in chemistry in order to provide a sound foundation for students subsequently proceeding with degrees in chemical or biochemical sciences.
Outline Of Syllabus
Elements, atoms and compounds
Atomic structure
Chemical bonds
Chemical reactions
Properties of solids, liquids (including solutions) and gases
Chemistry of selected elements
Chemical energetics
Chemical kinetics
Acids and bases
Chemistry of carbon compounds
Introduction to spectroscopy
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
After completing the module students should be able to:
• Explain how atomic and molecular structure determine the chemical and physical behaviour of molecules.
• Describe the basic principles of chemical energy.
• Present chemical data and ideas in a clear form, use the mole concept and balance chemical equations.
• Discuss how chemical reactions work and the main factors which affect them.
• Recognise important bio-molecules.
• Employ key techniques in laboratory work in chemistry with emphasis on good laboratory practice and due regard to chemical safety.
• Relate chemistry to other areas of study and its importance in every day life.
Intended Skill Outcomes
After completing the module students should be able to:
• Recall essential facts, concepts, principles and theories
• Apply such knowledge and understanding to the solution of qualitative problems.
• Recognise and analyse novel problems and plan strategies for their solution.
• Evaluate and interpret scientific information and data.
• Recognise and implement good measurement science and practice.
• Present scientific material and arguments to a range of audiences.
• Employ computational and data-processing skills, relating to scientific information and data.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 25:00 | 25:00 | Semester 2 NUMBAS test |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | Lectures (in person) |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 20:00 | 20:00 | Semester 1 NUMBAS test |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 5:00 | 5:00 | Formative Assessment |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 22 | 2:00 | 44:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | Tutorials |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Drop-in/surgery | 2 | 1:00 | 2:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 60:00 | 60:00 | N/A |
| Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The lectures introduce students to the required topics and give students a grounding in the principles of the subject area. Seminars and tutorials are used for more in-depth investigation and discussion of selected topics. In-course tests will allow formative feedback to be provided. Laboratory classes allow students to develop necessary practical skills and directed self-study enables them to consolidate their learning.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 120 | 1 | A | 40 | Written examination on Sem 1 work - NUMBAS test |
| Written Examination | 120 | 2 | A | 60 | Written examination on Sem 2 work - NUMBAS test |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer assessment | 1 | M | 50 multiple choice questions, 60 mins |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The unseen examinations and in-course formative test assess the students’ knowledge of the subject material and the in-course tests allow formative feedback to enable the student to gauge their progress.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- INU0117's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- INU0117's past Exam Papers
General Notes
Original Handbook text:
Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue
This is where you will be able to find all key information about modules on your programme of study. It will help you make an informed decision on the options available to you within your programme.
You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.
Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, staffing changes, and student feedback. Module information for the 2026/27 entry will be published here in early-April 2026. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.