Course Title: Perform chemical tests and procedures
Part B: Course Detail
Teaching Period: Term2 2025
Course Code: ONPS7807C
Course Title: Perform chemical tests and procedures
School: 535T Social Care and Health
Campus: City Campus
Program: C4433 - Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
Course Contact: Rauha Quazi
Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4277
Course Contact Email: rauha.quazi@rmit.edu.au
Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff
Dr Vinita Chaudhary
vinita.chaudhary@rmit.edu.au
Nominal Hours: 100
Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
Nil
Course Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to interpret chemical test requirements, prepare samples, conduct pre-use and calibration checks on equipment and perform routine chemical tests. These tests will involve several measurement steps. The unit includes basic data processing and interpretation of results.
This unit applies to laboratory or technical assistants and instrument operators in all industry sectors.
National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria
National Element Code & Title: |
MSL974032 Perform chemical tests and procedures |
Element: |
1. Interpret and schedule test requirements |
Performance Criteria: |
1.1 Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment involved 1.2 Identify hazards and workplace control measures associated with the sample, preparation and test methods, reagents and/or equipment 1.3 Plan work sequences to optimise throughput of multiple samples |
Element: |
2. Receive and prepare samples |
Performance Criteria: |
2.1 Register samples in accordance with workplace procedures, recording details that allow accurate tracking and chain of custody traceable to employee 2.2 Match sample provided to accompanying documentation and report any discrepancies in accordance with workplace procedures 2.3 Prepare samples and standards in accordance with chemical testing requirements |
Element: |
3. Check equipment before use |
Performance Criteria: |
3.1 Set up equipment and instruments in accordance with test method requirements 3.2 Perform pre-use and safety checks in accordance with workplace procedures 3.3 Check equipment calibration using specified standards and procedures 3.4 Inspect reagents required for quality issues including visual checks and expiry 3.5 Maintain equipment log in accordance with workplace procedures |
Element: |
4. Test samples to determine chemical species or properties |
Performance Criteria: |
4.1 Operate equipment and instruments in accordance with test method requirements 4.2 Perform tests or procedures on all samples and standards in accordance with specified methods 4.3 Shut down equipment and instruments in accordance with operating procedures |
Element: |
5. Process, interpret and record data |
Performance Criteria: |
5.1 Record test data noting atypical observations and anomalies 5.2 Interpret calibration graphs and compute results for all samples from these graphs 5.3 Check calculated values for consistency with expectations 5.4 Record data and results in accordance with workplace procedures 5.5 Determine if obvious procedure or equipment problems have led to atypical data or results 5.6 Follow procedures to ensure traceability of sample from receipt to reporting of results |
Element: |
6. Maintain a safe work environment |
Performance Criteria: |
6.1 Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel 6.2 Minimise the generation of wastes and environmental impacts 6.3 Safely collect and dispose of laboratory and hazardous waste 6.4 Care for and store equipment and reagents in accordance with workplace procedures |
Learning Outcomes
Details of Learning Activities
Students are expected to participate actively in all learning activities that include:
- working individually or in groups to complete pre-class preparation by utilising the video/interactive resources provided
- participating in class discussions and quizzes reviewing the topic
- working individually or in groups to understand theoretical concepts by attempting worksheets
- working individually or in pairs in the lab to to conduct experiments, analyse data, and interpret results,
Teaching Schedule
Sem II, 2025: Perform Chemical Tests and Procedures Teaching Schedule
Week No. |
Week starting |
Theory (2hr) |
Lab (3hr) |
Assessment due |
|
1 |
14 July |
Introduction to the course and assessment requirements |
Lab safety induction and introduction to lab and submission requirements |
Complete the “Mandatory Laboratory safety induction quiz” by 18th July 2025. |
2 |
21 July |
Topic 1 Lab safety
Environmental sustainability:
|
Learning activity 1:
|
Learning activity records to be signed in class |
3 |
28 July |
Topic 2
|
Sample reception and barcoding |
Learning activity records to be signed in class |
4 |
4 Aug |
Topic 3: Concepts of metrology:
|
|
Learning activity records to be signed in class |
5 |
11 Aug |
AT1: Quiz 1 (Topic 1-2) First attempt in THEORY CHECK CANVAS FOR DETAILS) Attendance mandatory |
NO LAB this week |
AT1: Quiz 1 (Topics 1-2) |
6 |
18 Aug |
Topic 4: Basic aspects of chemical principles and concepts: Part 1
|
|
Learning activity records to be signed in class and upload all learning activities (1 to 6) on canvas |
7 |
25 Aug |
Topic 4: Part 2
AT1: Quiz 1 second attempt Attendance mandatory Explanation of assessment lab 1 |
Catchup lab to complete lab activities |
AT1: Quiz 1 second attempt (on campus either in theory or lab session check canvas for details , attendance mandatory) |
Mid semester Break: 1-5 September: no classes | ||||
8 |
8 Sept |
Topic 5: Moles, Concentration & Dilution Explanation of assessment lab 2 |
AT2: Lab 1- Sample preparation and dilutions: CuSO4 |
|
9 |
15 Sept |
Topic 6: Spectrophotometry: Calibration & Logs
|
AT2: Lab 2- Spectrophotometry of CuSO4 |
AT2: Logbook submission Lab 1 |
10 |
22 Sept |
AT 1: Quiz 2 (Topics 3-5) First attempt in THEORY CLASS Attendance mandatory |
AT2: Lab 3- Spectrophotometry of Red Soft Drink |
AT1: Quiz 2 AT2: Logbook submission Lab 2 26 Sept Friday Public Holiday |
11 |
29 Sept |
Topic 7: Naming of compounds chemical formulae Explanation of AT 3 Practical Skills Test |
AT2: Lab 4- Spectrophotometry of Green Food Dye |
AT2: Logbook submission Lab 3 |
12 |
6 Oct |
Topic 8: Chemical formulae and balancing equations Second attempt for Quiz 2 Attendance mandatory |
AT3 Practical Skills Test – subgroup 1 |
AT1: Quiz 2 second attempt on campus in theory class AT2: Logbook submission Lab 4 |
13 |
13 Oct |
AT 1: Quiz 3 (all topics with main emphasis on topics 6-8) First attempt in THEORY CLASS Attendance mandatory |
AT3 Practical Skills Test – subgroup 2 |
AT3 Practical Skills Test subgroup 1 |
14 |
20 Oct |
Catch up Quiz (Only with approved special cons) |
Catch up Lab (Only with approved special cons) |
AT1: Quiz 3 AT3 Practical Skills Test subgroup 2 |
15 |
27 Oct |
Corrections/logbooks Second attempt for Quiz 3 Attendance mandatory |
Catch up Lab (Only with approved special cons) |
AT1: Quiz 3 second attempt |
16 |
3 Nov |
Corrections/logbooks |
Catch up Lab (Only with approved special cons) |
Tuesday 4th Nov public holiday |
Note: While all course content in this schedule will be covered, the weekly order may change depending on class needs.
Learning Resources
Prescribed Texts
There is no prescribed text for this course |
References
Two internet resources you can use for basic information about each topic, Choose what is relevant. Chemistry for Non-MajorsChemistry: Libretexts |
Other Resources
The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:
The Learning Lab
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/learning-lab
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/study-support-hub
English for uni workshops
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/workshops/english-uni-workshops
Overview of Assessment
Assessment may include:
- knowledge tests
- practical skills test
- practical logbooks
- presentations
- group work
- research
- lab reports
- assignments
Assessment Tasks
Students enrolled in Vocational Education and Training qualifications are assessed for Competency. To be assessed as Competent means you have consistently demonstrated the required knowledge and skills at a standard expected in the workplace.
To be assessed as Competent in this course, you will need to complete each assessment task to a satisfactory standard. You will receive feedback from the teacher at the conclusion of each assessment task (usually within two weeks of assessment submission).
Every task must be completed satisfactorily for competence to be achieved.
You should refer to the assessment brief which is available through Canvas for full assessment criteria and due dates
To successfully complete this course you need to be satisfactory in all of the following assessments:
Assessment Summary
Assessment task |
Weeks |
Task 1: Knowledge quizzes x 3 |
5, 10, 13 |
Task 2: Lab skills and logbook x 4 |
8, 9, 10, 11 |
Task 3: Practical skills test |
12 or 13 |
Assessment attempt policy:
For each assessment you will be given up to two (2) attempts, however, to be granted the second attempt at any assessment, your first attempt must be an appropriate attempt to try and gain a satisfactory outcome. For example, you must appropriately attempt each question or aspect of the assessment task.If your first attempt fails to meet the above standard, you may not be eligible for a second attempt at that task.A third (3rd) attempt can only be offered after discussions between teacher and the Program Coordinator and is not automaticResults that apply to courses that are delivered and assessed in accordance with competency-based assessment are:
CA: Competency Achieved
NYC: Not Yet Competent
SEC: Stopped engagement in course
Assessment Matrix
The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. These mapping documents are available through Program Administration if required
Other Information
Attendance:
Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises
It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.
Information about your studies:
You canaccess My Studies through the RMIT websitefor information about timetables, important dates, assessment dates, results and progress, Canvas etc.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students
Extensions of time for submission of assessable work:
If you are prevented from submitting an assessment on time by circumstances outside your control you may apply for an extension of up to seven (7) calendar days using the Assessment Extension tool in Canvas atleast one working day BEFORE the due date. Eligibility criteria for application and the form is available from the link: https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment/extensions-of-time-for-submission-of-assessable-work
Where an extension of greater than seven days is needed, you must apply for special consideration.
Special consideration:
If due to illness or other unforeseen circumstance, you are unable to attend on the due date of an assessment (e.g. test, examination, oral, etc.), you may submit an application for special consideration within 5 working days of the due date. If special consideration is granted, you will be given the opportunity to complete/repeat the assessment task at a later date. For advice on this applicationplease visit www.rmit.edu.au/students/specialconsiderationor speak to your Program Coordinator.
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:
RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-integrity
Use of AI has certain restrictions in this course. Please refer to assessment instructions for guidelines on the conditions for the use of AI tools in assessments.
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:
Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.
Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer or RPL for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit
Course Overview: Access Course Overview