Spaghetti Strength
This lesson, created by the American Chemical Society teaches students about the amazing strength of polymers through spaghetti exploration. Which kind of pasta is the strongest, and what may be some reasons? A student sheet has also been created by William R Lammela, PhD of Nazareth College for use with this activity.

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Polymer Inquiry Experiment
Another great activity involving polymers is this Inquiry lab, designed to develop problem solving and experimentation skills in students of all ages. Students are presented with a goopy substance, and asked to mix one of their own to a similar consistency. This lab is extremely versatile, and can be tweaked to fit a wide range of grade levels and topics. The tactile experiences it offers are one of a kind, resulting in the creation of a substance similar to gak.

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Solve a Science Mystery
This lesson is geared to students in grades 3-6, and can be adapted for use with younger students.  The learner is put in the role of a science detective, using paper chromatography to solve the case.  At older levels this would be a great introductory lesson to protein comparison, DNA studies, and other chemistry topics.