The module aims to enhance the students’ knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of mathematics and chemistry, with the main emphasis on organic and analytical chemistry, to provide a firm basis for the study of topics that involve the application of chemical and mathematical principles at Level 5.
The study of mathematics will include trigonometry, algebra and exponential and log functions.
The study of chemistry will include structure and bonding in ionic and covalent compounds, the laws of thermodynamics as applied to chemical systems, the structure, nomenclature and reactivity of the major classes of organic compounds, the concepts of accuracy and precision, sensitivity and selectivity of analytical data
sample pre-treatment and processing of results, and the basic principles of volumetric and gravimetric analysis.
There will be laboratory classes to give practical examples of the chemical techniques outlined above and to demonstrate the underlying theory.

Students will be required to complete two elements of summative assessment.

Written examinations in chemistry weighted at 50% of the module, comprising 2 x 2 hour examinations, weighted equally, taken at the end of each teaching block (learning outcomes 1, 3 and 5).

A practical portfolio weighted at 50% of the module, including a laboratory notebook, written reports of experiments, a reflective summary of knowledge and skills development. The practical portfolio will require background reading to answer questions and problems, and addresses learning outcomes 1 to 5.

Students are also required to pass a 1 hour mathematics test at the end of teaching block 1: the pass mark is 40% but the test is zero-weighted.

Students will be provided with formative assessment and feedback via comments made on their work during practical sessions and in tutorials.

Berry, J. (1989) Introductory Mathematics through Science. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press

Housecroft, C.E. and Constable, E.C. (2010) Chemistry. 4th ed. Harlow: Prentice-Hall

A list of further recommended reading is provided in the module handbook

Forensic science laboratory & equipment.

Entry onto Level 4 of award.

1. SHOW A KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF FUNDAMENTAL ASPECTS OF CHEMISTRY
(Knowledge & Understanding, Learning)

2. OBTAIN AND ANALYSE SCIENTIFIC RESULTS IN THE LABORATORY IN A COMPETENT AND SAFE MANNER
(Enquiry)

3. ANALYSE AND COMMUNICATE SCIENTIFIC FINDINGS IN A WRITTEN INTELLIGIBLE FORM
(Analysis, Communication, Problem Solving)

4. DEMONSTRATE AN UNDERSTANDING OF MATHEMATICAL CONCEPTS AND THEIR APPLICATION TO SOLVING PROBLEMS
(Problem Solving)

5. REFLECT ON PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
(Communication, Reflection)

64 hours of lectures to deliver and explain the core material. 34 hours of tutor led tutorial-workshops to help support the core material including mathematics tutorials. 48 hours of practical classes, comprising 12 x 4 hour laboratory practical sessions to develop laboratory skills, techniques of safe handling of chemical substances and specific skills in chemical synthesis and analysis. 149 hours of independent study will be used to research background information related to the delivery of the core material and to work on assignments.