Chemistry review by John McMurry
For science majors enrolled in two-semester general chemistry courses, the Seventh Edition of McMurry/Fay/Robinson's Chemistry aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and its relevance. This edition offers a concise and streamlined narrative that effectively combines the quantitative and visual aspects of chemistry, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various topics and demonstrating their practical applications in students' lives and future careers.
Incorporating new content that enhances the connection between organic and biochemistry with general chemistry, this edition also introduces improved pedagogical features that transform the textbook into a powerful teaching tool rather than just a reference book. Notable additions include conceptual worked examples and integrated Inquiry sections, designed to make critical connections within the subject matter more explicit and understandable, thereby enhancing students' grasp of chemistry concepts.
To further support the learning process, the Seventh Edition fully integrates with MasteringChemistry, a comprehensive online platform by Pearson. This platform offers a range of educational resources, including homework assignments, tutorials, and assessments, all designed to engage students both before and after class. Instructors can assign relevant content before lectures to ensure students come prepared, and they can use in-class resources like Learning Catalytics to promote critical thinking and active participation. Moreover, students have the opportunity to solidify their understanding through traditional and adaptive homework assignments that offer hints and answer-specific feedback.
The MasteringChemistry platform also includes a gradebook that consolidates scores from automatically graded assignments, simplifying the tracking of student performance. Additionally, diagnostic tools provide instructors with valuable data to assess students' comprehension and identify areas where they may need further support.