If you teach science, then you already know that there’s a lot of equipment you’ll need for your classroom. Here are some items you should start out with.
No matter what grade you teach, you’re likely to run a few experiments with your students when you teach science. Experiments are a great way to help your kids visualize and understand the concepts you’re teaching them. However, to do that, you’ll need some basic items in advance. While the list of science equipment you should get for your classroom is near endless, we wanted to share some of the important ones you should have on hand.
Measurable Containers
Some common things that many people think of when imagining a lab are beakers and test tubes. That means these containers are a good place to start. On top of those examples, you should also get some graduated cylinders and plenty of measuring cups.
While you don’t need containers with measurement markings, they’ll make most experiments much easier to do. Also, be sure to buy plastic versions of these items if you teach young children. While glass ones are great for hotter substances, they are also quite breakable.
Other Measuring Devices
Of course, liquids won’t be the only thing your class will need to measure. You’ll also need to determine the weight of objects and the heat of certain substances. Scales and thermometers are must-haves in any science class. Rulers and yardsticks will also be valuable if you need to record the length of something.
Various Mixing Agents
Even though you’ll likely need to get specific chemicals or substances based on whichever experiment you’re planning, there are some mixing agents that teachers commonly use for many experiments. These are baking soda, rubbing alcohol, vinegar, vegetable oil, and food coloring. While this isn’t a comprehensive list, it’s a good place to start. Having extra quantities of these items can never hurt.
Safety Equipment
Safety gear is probably the most important set of science equipment you should have for your classroom. Almost all school districts require items like goggles and gloves. However, anything you can think of that will keep your students safe might be worth getting. A good example of this would be aprons or lab coats. Obviously, these can get a bit pricey, but they will be better at protecting your students. Plus, we’re sure they’ll love wearing them.
A Few Unique Items
Most of the items in this list have been on the generic side, so we wanted to use this last section to name some more fun items you might not have thought of. Some classic examples here include a full skeleton or model of the solar system. When teaching these topics, it’s much easier for students to understand what you’re talking about if you can point it out to them.
Obviously, there are so many other options that you can use, but one that’s fun for younger students is a Van De Graaff generator. There’s a lot to know about what this machine is and how it works, but it’s a fun way for students to learn about static electricity.
Regardless of what unique equipment you get, all of it will help make your classroom look more “sciencey.”
