UNIT 01Atoms, Elements & Periodicity
A specific look at the organization of the UNIT, with notes on delivery, sequence and timing, the specific AP MCQs/FRQs used in teaching, and major assessment break points. Note that many other MCQs/FRQs are also used, but those listed here are specific to moment of delivery. Full lists of mapped FRQs are included in the worksheets
Since I do not see labs as a vital part of exam preparation, they are not indicated here, however labs are delivered during the course, as are minor assessments
SPECIFICS FOR UNIT 1
UNIT 1 splits into atoms and using them in calculations, and essentially electon behavior. The nicities of the mole are your enemy! With the mole avoid abstract concepts that are too hard to grasp, and go straight for calculations
Empirical & Molecular Formula
Points of emphasis on not rounding too much and looking for 'obvious' decimals
1993, 2(a) 1998, 2(a)
Pure & Impure
Pure as fixed composition, impure as not
The Mole
Avoid emphasis on hard to grasp and frankly irrelevant abstracts, and concentrate on calculations. Do calculations make sense?
2018, 3(g)
Isotopes & Mass Spectrometry
Mass Spec as the visual representation of the isotope calculations
2005, 7(d)
Timing as a % of total allotted time
01ABCD 5.50%
Major Assessment
01ABCD
Atoms & Electronic Configuration
Constructing electronic configurations from the periodic table
Quantitative aspects with an emphasis on the probable unit issues
1981, 8
1999, 2(a)(i) - (iii)
(context is bonding, BUT still offers useful reminders re: units in quantitative aspects)
1999, 2(b)(i) and (iii)
2019, 5(b)
PES
PES as evidence for quantum model but almost all is simply interpretation.
I like to contrast successive IEs and PES bonding energies quite closely
2019, 5(a)(i) and (ii)
Periodicity
Split between physical and chemical with an understanding that with the exception of the oxide behavior, the illustrations are just that, illustrations
1990, 6(a) - (d)
Formation of Ions
Recall, but careful note on transition elements, and the possibility of electron affinity and ionization energy being applied to ALL elements
2018, 3(a)
Timing as % of total allotted time
01EFGH 5.50%
Major Assessment
01EFGH
