The document outlines the evolution of the Mathematics for Chemistry program at Keele University from 2009 to 2014, detailing curriculum changes and the reintroduction of mathematics into chemistry modules. It highlights the introduction of diagnostic tests, optional workshops, and emphasis on practical numeracy skills over advanced mathematical concepts. The curriculum was revised to include more laboratory hours and advanced mathematical topics, integrated with a combination of self-study and workshop-based learning.

1. Maths for Chemistry at Keele:
(R)Evolution
Dr Katherine J. Haxton
k.j.haxton@keele.ac.uk
Acknowledgements:
Dr David J. McGarvey, Dr Laura Hancock
Dr Simon Lancaster,

2. Keele Chemistry Degrees
Single Honours (SH)
Programme:
BSc Chemistry
Dual Honours (DH)
Programmes:
(includes the study of a 2nd
subject in 1st and 2nd year)
BSc Chemistry WITH/AND
BSc Medicinal Chemistry
WITH/AND

3. 6 Years of Change
Pre-2009: 12 x 10 credit 1st year modules
Maths for Chemistry Module
4 Chemistry Modules
2009: New Degree Structure Introduced,
All 1st year modules 15 credits,
4 Chemistry Modules - maths removed
Maths Diagnostic Test Introduced
Optional Maths Workshops (2 hrs/wk)

4. Maths for Chemistry 2009 - 2012
Diagnostic Test
G. Currell, http://calcscience.uwe.ac.uk/w2/sa/saIndex.htm
Recommendation made to students regarding attendance.
Identified need for numeracy skills over ‘harder’ maths skills.
2 hour workshops:
greater chemistry context,
more emphasis on ‘basics’
(equation rearranging, handling units, scientific notation,
equation of straight line).
Attendance declines as differentiation looms…

5. 6 Years of Change
2012:
Curriculum Revisions
BSc Accreditation Reintroduced by RSC
More Laboratory Hours Needed
Maths Re-embedded into Chem Module
Self-Study Resources Created

6. Screencasts
http://www.chemistryvignettes.net/mathematics-
for-chemists-screencasts/

7. 6 Years of Change
2013: SH Chemistry Introduced
(direct 2nd year entry, creation of 2 new
modules, timetable rearranged)
2014: SH Chemistry Expanded
(105 1st year credits - 6 core, 2 electives)
Maths for Chemistry Module

8. Mathematical Tools
& Concepts in
Chemistry
‘Advanced Topics’:vectors,
differentiation and
integration, power series
Teaching Style:
Combined self-study &
workshop based learning
Assessment:
Assessed problems (35%)
Class Test (35%)
Report (30%)
Scientific Numeracy:
sig fig, units,
unit conversions,
rearranging equations

9. properties of gases
chemical spectroscopy
equilibrium and thermodynamics
kinetics
quantum chemistry
electric properties of molecules
intermolecular forces

11. General Issues
Symbolic Language
- e.g. difference between frequency and wavenumber
Estimation, Magnitude and Sign
- e.g. general bond length, results of calculation
Use of Calculators
- e.g. ‘one step’ calculations, no working

12. General Thoughts
Reinventing The Wheel
Sharing Resources