A foundation level course is presented that integrates aspects of organic, inorganic and biochemistry in the context of reactivity. The course was designed to serve majors in chemistry and other sciences (biochemistry, biology, nutrition), as well as nursing and pre-health professions students. Themes of the course were designed to highlight a range of applications of chemistry, including synthesis, catalysis, and materials science, in order to teach students the wider societal significance of chemistry, in addition to chemical concepts. Special attention was paid to topics relevant to health and biology.