Further Fundamental Organic Chemistry for Biologists

University of Reading

Course Description

  • Course Name

    Further Fundamental Organic Chemistry for Biologists

  • Host University

    University of Reading

  • Location

    Reading, England

  • Area of Study

    Biology

  • Language Level

    Taught In English

  • Course Level Recommendations

    Lower

    ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.

    Hours & Credits

  • ECTS Credits

    5
  • Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
    3
  • Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
    4

  • Overview

    Module Provider: Chemistry
    Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
    Level:4
    Terms in which taught: Spring / Summer term module
    Pre-requisites: CH1OR2 Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry
    Non-modular pre-requisites: A level chemistry or equivalent
    Co-requisites:
    Modules excluded: CH1FC1 Fundamental Concepts in Chemistry 1 or CH1FC3 Molecular Studies for the Life Sciences or CH1OR1 Shape, Structure and Reactivity in Organic Chemistry
    Module version for: 2014/5
    Module Convenor: Dr Andrew Russell
    Email: a.t.russell@reading.ac.uk
    Summary module description:
    Aims:
    To further students? understanding of basic concepts in organic chemistry in order to better appreciate related subjects such as Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry.
    Assessable learning outcomes:
    Students should be able to describe and explain the reactivity of alkenes and alkynes toward a selection of reagents, describe and explain the concept of aromaticity; explain the mechanisms of EAS and NAS reactions; explain the mechanisms of nucleophilic attack upon a variety of carbonyl containing groups; use their knowledge of this fundamental reactivity of organic functional groups to rationalise simple synthetic transformations and to interpret some fundamental reactions observed in biological systems.
    Additional outcomes:
    Students will develop proficiency at problem solving.
    Outline content:
    L M Harwood (4 lectures) Reactivity of Unsaturated Compounds
    We will study reactions that are characteristic of the alkene/alkyne functional groups. For example, reactions of alkenes with a range of electrophiles, including Br2, HBr, BH3 and m-CPBA will be described. The regioselective addition of electrophiles to unsymmetrical alkenes will also be discussed and Markovnikov?s rule will be exemplified.
    J E McKendrick (8 lectures) Aromatic Chemistry
    We will study the structure of benzene, the Hückel rule for aromaticity and the stability of aromatic molecules. The reactivity of these compounds will be considered under the general mechanistic headings; electrophilic aromatic substitution (EAS) and nucleophilic aromatic substitution (NAS) as well as the structure and reactivity of benzyne. The significance of substituents on the regiochemistry of these reactions will be discussed. Additionally, the synthesis and reactions of diazoaromatics will be covered.
    A T Russell (8 lectures) An Introduction to Carbonyl Group Chemistry
    We will consider the structure and bonding of the carbonyl functional group, its fundamental modes of reactivity including the link between structure and reactivity. The reactions of carbonyl groups with nucleophiles and reducing agents will be covered together with methods of formation, methods of removal and the chemistry of carboxylic acids, esters and amides.
    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    Two one hour lectures per week with approximately one workshop/seminar on related material every three weeks with 2 hours of revision classes in the Summer Term.
    Contact hours:
    Autumn Spring Summer
    Lectures 20
    Seminars 6
    Practicals classes and workshops 12
    Guided independent study 42
    Total hours by term 80.00
    Total hours for module 80.00
    Summative Assessment Methods:
    Method Percentage
    Written exam 75
    Report 25
    Other information on summative assessment:
    Coursework:
    Students will attend practical sessions on standard laboratory techniques.
    Relative Percentage of Coursework:
    Practical work and practical report: 25%
    Submission dates: practical reports would normally be submitted the Friday following each Monday practical, detailed instructions will be given by the class leader.
    Formative assessment methods:
    Students will attend problem-solving workshop/seminars on the material covered in this module. This will give students a chance to work on set questions with members of staff present to give feedback and guidance. Attendance is compulsory.
    Penalties for late submission:
    The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late, in accordance with the University policy.
    where the piece of work is submitted up to one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for the piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
    where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.
    You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.
    Length of examination:
    1.5 hours
    Requirements for a pass:
    A mark of 40% overall.
    Reassessment arrangements:
    Re-examination in August only. Coursework marks will be carried forward and count towards re-assessment.
    Last updated: 8 October 2014

Course Disclaimer

Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.

Some courses may require additional fees.

Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.

ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits are converted to semester credits/quarter units differently among U.S. universities. Students should confirm the conversion scale used at their home university when determining credit transfer.

Please reference fall and spring course lists as not all courses are taught during both semesters.

Please note that some courses with locals have recommended prerequisite courses. It is the student's responsibility to consult any recommended prerequisites prior to enrolling in their course.

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