This semester the 6th, 7th, and 8th graders spent 5 weeks learning basic chemistry! We started with the structure of the atom and decoding the information in the periodic table of elements, atomic numbers, atomic masses, etc. We then discussed the importance of electrons and covalent bonds. We started drawing simple organic and inorganic molecules from their molecular formulae using just the information about Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen, and Carbon. Finally we used molecular model kits to build these molecules in 3D! The students were very enthusiastic, relating the information to their own knowledge and experiences. They were always eager for more information and new molecules to try to draw or build. Seeing Chemistry as a game or series of puzzles that they can solve is a great way to keep children interested in the subject. I hope that the students continue to use their HONC Rules to find the molecular structures of everything around them!