Molecules Activities for Middle School Science

The Kesler Science Molecules and Extended Structures Inquiry Lab aligns with NGSS MS-PS1-1, guiding students to develop models that represent the atomic composition of simple and complex molecules. Students will build physical models of molecules commonly found in soda—such as water, carbon dioxide, fructose, and caffeine—using materials like marshmallows and toothpicks. Both print and digital versions of the lab include comprehension questions, C.E.R. writing prompts, and a reflection section to encourage deeper understanding.

This resource is fully differentiated with three versions at varying levels of support: dependent for on-level learners, modified for students requiring additional guidance, and independent for those ready for a more student-directed experience. The print lab offers a hands-on approach, while the digital format provides interactive activities that can be completed without physical materials—ideal for absent students or classrooms with limited supplies.

Designed for flexibility, the lab includes editable teacher pages, answer keys, and materials compatible with both PowerPoint and Google Slides. Whether students are building molecule models in person or virtually exploring structures, this lab supports diverse learning styles and classroom needs.

The Kesler Science Simple and Complex Molecules Reading Comprehension activity engages middle school students in learning about atomic composition through a nonfiction article on simple and complex molecules. After reading, students complete comprehension questions and create atom and molecule models as part of a hands-on mini-project.

This resource includes leveled science reading passages, suitable for grades 6-8 and higher-level 5th graders, with Lexile levels ranging from 1100-1300. Each passage is paired with comprehension questions and a mini-project to reinforce learning. The content is available in both English and Spanish and works well for both in-person and virtual learning environments.

Teachers can use this activity in various ways, such as for building science literacy, as extra credit, or in remote learning setups through platforms like Google Classroom. The included Cornell notes template and colorful graphics make it easier for students to engage and retain information while promoting critical thinking and classroom discussions.

The Kesler Science Structure of Molecules Writing Prompt Activity helps middle school students explore the concept of molecular structure through an engaging song prompt. Students enhance their science reasoning and writing skills by responding creatively to the song. This activity is ideal for promoting student-led learning and can be used for both in-person and virtual classrooms.

This resource is fully aligned with TEKS and NGSS standards and provides multiple ways for students to demonstrate understanding. It includes differentiated materials such as full and half-sized handouts, pre-writing strategies, and rubrics for easy assessment. Teachers can project the prompt or use it digitally via Google Slides or PowerPoint.

The activity is flexible and low-prep, suitable for cross-curricular integration, formative assessments, and student choice projects. It also works as a creative extension for early finishers or as a tool for review, extra credit, or make-up work. With options for differentiation, this writing prompt can meet the diverse needs of all students.

The Kesler Science Chemistry Lesson Extensions offer an engaging solution for keeping fast finishers motivated and learning. By incorporating activities that challenge critical thinking and creativity, these extensions are ideal for filling downtime during testing, curbing distractions, and wrapping up lessons. They provide rigorous yet enjoyable opportunities for students ready to delve deeper into NGSS and TEKS chemistry standards.  

Each Lesson Extension includes four creative activities designed to enrich the learning experience. The Puzzler improves problem-solving skills through relevant puzzles, while the Maker Space integrates STEAM connections with hands-on projects. The Tech Connection allows students to demonstrate their learning through digital media, and the Word Master brings creative writing into the science classroom. Teachers are supported with clear directions, answer keys, and resources available in both projection and print-friendly formats.  

This bundle covers essential topics such as the periodic table, chemical reactions, synthetic materials, and atomic structures. These versatile tools provide high-level supplementary materials to challenge independent learners and offer a meaningful way to conclude chemistry lessons with engagement and purpose.

This Amazing Anchors Phenomenon Lesson introduces and reinforces the concept of atomic composition through a real-world scenario about disappearing salt. The two-part resource includes an introductory reading with comprehension and extension questions to spark curiosity, followed by an explanatory reading that clearly explains atomic composition and deepens student understanding with additional questions.

Designed to support NGSS standard MS PS1-1, this no-prep, teacher-friendly resource includes full-page projection slides, editable PowerPoints for digital learning, and printable handouts in both full- and half-sheet formats. Differentiated versions are included to support all learners, with modified language and sentence starters to guide student responses.

Ideal for the Engage and Elaborate phases of a 5E lesson, Amazing Anchors bookend your main instruction by building context and reinforcing key concepts. Whether used in person or virtually, this flexible resource helps students make meaningful connections through a phenomenon-based approach to science learning.