(Print-ready rotation schedule, station cards, and lab log sheets.)

Learning Objectives

• Establish a repeatable weekly lab routine across multiple STEM strands.
• Collect and analyze data with age-appropriate logs and reflection prompts.
• Differentiate between observation and inference; practice safe lab habits.
• Strengthen vocabulary for chemistry, geology, and physical science.

Materials Needed

• National Geographic Mega Science Lab
• Safety glasses, paper towels, and table cover
• Notebook or printed lab log (from PDF)
• Optional: thermometer, kitchen scale, stopwatch, ruler

Preparation & Setup (5–10 min)

1. Skim the kit booklet and star 3–4 experiments suitable for today’s time window and age group.
2. Set up two stations: Chemistry (safe reaction) and Earth Science (rock/mineral or crystal demo).
3. Print lab logs and station cards (included in the PDF) so learners rotate smoothly.

Lesson Steps (40–60 min)

1. Hook (5 min): Show a quick demo (color change or density trick) and ask, “What evidence would prove a chemical change?”
2. Station A — Chemistry (15–20 min): Choose one safe reaction. Learners predict, run, and record observations (bubbles, temp, color). Emphasize variables and controls.
3. Station B — Earth Science (15–20 min): Identify/observe minerals or begin a crystal growth setup. Record properties and sketch observations.
4. Share & Reflect (5–10 min): Compare results across stations. What evidence supported a reaction? What patterns were seen in mineral properties?

Data & Assessment

• Use the lab log to capture Prediction → Procedure → Observations → Conclusions.
• Quick exit ticket: “One thing I observed, one question I have, one variable I would change.”
• Optional rubric (1–4) for safety, participation, accuracy of notes, and reflection quality.

Discussion & Reflection

• What counts as evidence when we claim a chemical change happened?
• How did the setup of each station influence your observations?
• Which tools (thermometer, scale, timer) improved data quality the most?

Extensions & Cross-Subject Links

• Math: Graph temperature or time-to-reaction vs. mixture ratios.
• ELA: Write a one-page “lab story” from the perspective of a molecule or a crystal.
• Long-Term: Continue crystal growth all week; photograph daily and make a mini report.

Parent & Teacher Tips

Wrap-Up

This kit lets you run a sustainable, multi-strand STEM lab at home. With simple rotations, consistent logging, and weekly routines, kids build real scientific habits—predicting, testing, observing, and explaining.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Purchases may support MommySchool Tools at no additional cost to you.