Complete Introduction to Chemistry (Grades 6-8)

Ignite a love for chemistry with our Complete Introduction to Chemistry (Grades 6-8)! This comprehensive kit transforms abstract chemistry concepts into exciting, hands-on discoveries through 27 engaging experiments covering five essential chemistry topics. From creating bouncy balls with polymers to exploring acid-base reactions, young scientists will uncover the fascinating world of matter and chemical reactions. Each kit includes professional-grade lab equipment, safe chemicals for experimentation, and a detailed 46-page full-color manual designed specifically for middle school students.

• Complete laboratory experience with 27 hands-on experiments covering essential chemistry concepts—from states of matter to chemical reactions
• Professional-grade equipment including real glass beakers, test tubes, and precise measuring tools built to last
• Comprehensive safety gear with chemical splash goggles and protective apron included for worry-free experimenting
• Step-by-step guidance through our detailed, full-color manual designed for independent learning
• Expert-curated experiments aligned with middle school science standards (NGSS)—perfect as a curriculum supplement or in-depth exploration for curious learners

Real Science, Real Results Watch chemistry come alive as your student creates polymers, explores density, and masters the differences between physical and chemical changes—all with professional-grade equipment designed for young scientists.

This kit includes:

• 1 Instructions manual
• 1 Alcohol lamp burner
• 1 Alcohol lamp stand
• 2 Alligator clip leads
• 2 Balloon
• 2 Battery, size D
• 1 Battery holder, size D
• 1 Beaker, glass, 250 mL
• 1 Beaker, glass, 600 mL
• 1 Bottle, 250 mL
• 1 Calcium Hydroxide, 30 g
• 1 Candle
• 1 Chemical splash safety goggles, size adult
• 1 Copper II Sulfate (cupric), 30 g
• 4 Effervescent antacid tablets
• 1 Electrode, copper
• 1 Erlenmeyer flask, 250 mL
• 10 Filter paper sheet
• 4 Food coloring
• 1 Funnel
• 1 Graduated cylinder, 100 mL
• 1 Lab apron, No. 2
• 1 Medicine dropper
• 2 Petri dish
• 1 Phenolphthalein Solution, 30 mL
• 80 pH papers sheets
• 1 Potassium Bitartrate, 30 g
• 1 Rubber stopper, #6.5, solid
• 1 Safety gloves, size medium
• 1 Sand package
• 1 Sodium Carbonate, 30 g
• 1 Sodium Tetraborate, 30 g
• 1 Spatula
• 1 Stirring rod
• 4 Test tubes, 16 x 150 mm
• 1 Test tube clamp
• 1 Test tube rack
• 1 Thermometer
• 2 School glue
• 2 Straw
• 2 Yeast packet

You will also need:

• Zip-Close Bag
• Ice
• Matches
• Distilled White Vinegar
• Baking Soda
• Stopwatch or Timer (can be found on a cell phone)
• Corn Syrup
• Vegetable Oil
• Cardstock
• Dish Soap
• Tape
• Baking Dish
• Brass Key
• Salt
• Raw Egg
• Cornstarch
• 3% Hydrogen Peroxide
• Black Washable Marker
• Pencil
• Aluminum Foil
• Popcorn Kernels
• Sugar
• Cotton Swabs
• Newspaper
• Plain White Paper
• Glass Cleaner (must have ammonia in its components)
• Bleach
• Tub or Tile Cleaner
• Denatured Alcohol
• Hot Pad or Oven Mitt
• Water

• Grade Level: 6-8 (Ages 11-14)
• Number of Activities: 27 unique experiments
• Manual Length: 46 pages, full color
• Time Per Activity: 30-45 minutes average
• Equipment Type: Professional-grade glass and durable plastic
• Safety Features: Chemical splash goggles, protective apron, safety gloves
• Chemical Safety: All chemicals meet educational safety standards
• Storage: Reusable box with compartments
• Also Available: Sample Activity Guide

Complete Chemistry Learning System for Middle School Students

Designed for Home Science Success

The Complete Introduction to Chemistry (Grades 6-8) transforms your home into a discovery zone where abstract concepts become tangible experiences. Each experiment is carefully designed to build understanding of essential chemistry concepts while keeping young scientists engaged and excited. From creating polymer bouncy balls to electroplating metal objects, students develop real laboratory skills while exploring fundamental chemistry principles. Whether you're looking for hands-on activities to complement your science curriculum or want to fuel a budding chemist's curiosity, this kit provides the structure and materials for meaningful learning.

Professional Equipment, Student-Friendly Design

We believe in providing real scientific equipment that's appropriately sized for young scientists. Our kit includes durable glass beakers, proper test tubes, and precise measuring tools—the same types of equipment used in school laboratories. This professional-grade equipment helps students develop proper lab techniques while ensuring experiments work consistently and safely.

Comprehensive Learning Experience

Each experiment builds understanding across five key areas: States of Matter, Solubility, Acids and Bases, Polymers, and Chemical Reactions. The detailed manual provides clear instructions, scientific explanations, and thought-provoking questions that encourage critical thinking. All activities align with middle school Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), making this kit an excellent supplement to homeschool or classroom science studies, or a perfect way to dive deeper into chemistry for students who want more hands-on exploration.

Part of the Science Foundation Series

This kit is part of our Science Foundation Series—a comprehensive collection of hands-on science experiment kits designed to build a strong foundation in core science subjects. Each kit in this series provides more than just "one and done" experiments. They guide students through multiple related experiments with clear instructions and thought-provoking knowledge assessments, covering several topics within a single subject over two months or more. These kits work beautifully as curriculum supplements or as in-depth explorations for students passionate about a particular science subject.

Looking for chemistry education at different grade levels? The Science Foundation Series offers chemistry kits for every stage of learning:

• Complete Introduction to Chemistry (Grades 3-5) - Perfect for younger students beginning their chemistry journey with age-appropriate experiments and clear explanations
• Complete Introduction to Chemistry (Grades 6-8) - This kit! Ideal for middle school students ready to explore chemistry concepts in greater depth
• Complete Introduction to Chemistry (Grades 9+) - Advanced chemistry exploration for high school students tackling more complex concepts and experiments

The Science Foundation Series also includes comprehensive kits for Biology, Physics, and Earth & Space Science across all three grade ranges, making it easy to provide thorough science education throughout your student's learning journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What age should kids start learning chemistry? While basic chemistry concepts can be introduced as early as elementary school, ages 11-14 (grades 6-8) are ideal for beginning formal chemistry education. At this age, students have developed the mathematical skills and abstract thinking abilities needed to understand molecular interactions and chemical reactions. Starting with hands-on experiments helps build a strong foundation for more advanced chemistry concepts in high school.
2. What do you need for a basic chemistry lab at home? A basic home chemistry lab should include essential equipment like beakers, test tubes, measuring tools, and safety gear (goggles and protective wear). You'll also need basic chemicals for experiments, proper storage, and a well-ventilated workspace. Most importantly, having step-by-step instructions and proper safety guidelines is crucial for successful home chemistry experiments.
3. How can I make chemistry more fun for middle school students? The key to making chemistry engaging is through hands-on experimentation. When students can see chemical reactions happen, create polymers, and conduct their own investigations, abstract concepts become concrete and memorable. Connecting chemistry to everyday life—like cooking, cleaning products, or making slime—helps students understand its real-world relevance. Regular hands-on activities combined with clear explanations help maintain interest and build understanding.

• Safety Information (SDS) (pdf)
• Sample Activity Guide (pdf)

• NGSS science standards alignment
• MS-PS1-2: Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
• MS-PS3-3: Apply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
• MS-PS3-4: Plan an investigation to determine the relationships among the energy transferred, the type of matter, the mass, and the change in the average kinetic energy of the particles as measured by the temperature of the sample.
• MS-LS1-7: Develop a model to describe how food is rearranged through chemical reactions forming new molecules that support growth and/or release energy as this matter moves through an organism.