The Atoms First approach provides a consistent and logical method for teaching general chemistry. This approach starts with the fundamental building block of matter, the atom, and uses it as the stepping stone to understanding more complex chemistry topics. Once mastery of the nature of atoms and electrons is achieved, the formation and properties of compounds are developed. Only after the study of matter and the atom will students have sufficient background to fully engage in topics such as stoichiometry, kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics. Thus, the Atoms First approach empowers instructors to present the most complete and compelling story of general chemistry. Far from a simple re-ordering of topics, this is a book that will truly meet the needs of the growing atoms-first market. The third edition continues to build on the innovative success of the first and second editions. Changes to this edition include specific refinements intended to augment the student-centered pedagogical features that continue to make this book effective and popular both with professors, and with their students.
Author Biography
Dr. Julia Burdge did most of her undergraduate work at Iowa State University, completing her bachelor's degree and Master's degree in inorganic chemistry at the University of South Florida in Tampa. She earned her Ph.D. in analytical chemistry at the University of Idaho. Her Master's and doctoral research involved the development of chemotherapeutic analogs of cisplatin and the development of instruments and methods for measuring ultra-trace concentrations of atmospheric sulfur compounds. Over the past 20 years, she has taught introductory and advanced courses in every division of the undergraduate chemistry curriculum, as well as interdisciplinary courses. She also developed and taught a new introductory chemistry course for pre-service science teachers, and initiated and served as a mentor in a future faculty development program for graduate students and post-doctoral associates. She is currently affiliated with the University of Idaho.
Jason Overby received his B.S. in chemistry and political science from the University of Tennessee at Martin, his Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry from Vanderbilt University, and conducted postdoctoral research at Dartmouth College. Since joining the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the College of Charleston, Jason has taught courses from general chemistry to advanced inorganic chemistry, and conducts research with undergraduates. He is interested in integrating technology into the classroom, with a particular focus on adaptive learning.
