In first-year general chemistry undergraduate courses, thermodynamics and thermal properties such as melting points and changes in enthalpy ([Delta]H) and entropy ([Delta]S) of phase changes are frequently discussed. Typically, classical calorimetric methods of analysis are used to determine [Delta]H of reactions. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is a rugged, easy-to-use instrumental method for thermal analysis determinations. DSC has become more commonly used in the chemistry curriculum, finding its way into the physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, and even in some general chemistry courses. The work described herein discusses the use of DSC in a general chemistry laboratory course to determine thermal properties such as melting points, [Delta][subscript fusion]H, [Delta][subscript fusion]S, and introduce the concept of polymorphism for organic hydrocarbons. (Contains 3 figures and 2 tables.)