Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry module (BS12009)

​​Organic chemistry underpins drug discovery, biochemistry and much of the life sciences. This module gives you the foundation you need to engage with those subjects at a more advanced level. You will study the main functional groups, their properties and reactivity; you will learn to describe how atomic orbitals combine to form molecular orbitals and predict reaction mechanisms using curly arrows notation.  The module is delivered through lectures, problem-solving workshops, and laboratory practicals, with additional on-line exercises and self-directed study to reinforce the key concepts. You will apply your learning hands-on in the chemistry lab and develop your critical thinking, group-working and reflective skills alongside the chemistry content. 

​What you will learn 

​In this module, you will: 

• ​Gain the foundational organic chemistry knowledge you need to progress into advanced organic chemistry, biochemistry and medicinal chemistry 

​By the end of this module, you will be able to: 

• ​Describe the properties and reactivity of the most common functional groups in small organic molecules 
• ​Explain how atomic orbitals combine to form molecular orbitals and predict reaction mechanisms using curly arrows notation 
• ​Apply problem-solving, critical thinking and group-working skills to organic chemistry challenges 
• ​Self-assess your understanding, make connections between topics, and reflect on your approach to problem solving and laboratory work​

Assignments / assessments

​​Problem-solving coursework (30%) 

​Written short lab report (20%) 

​2-hour written exam (50%)​

Teaching methods / timetable

• ​​Weekly lectures 
• ​Weekly problem-solving workshops 
• ​Laboratory practicals 
• ​On-line exercises and self-directed study​