The Science Teacher’s Toolkit: Top 5 Science Teacher Supplies

Take science class to the next level

The science classroom is a place where students can explore their curiosity. It’s where they’ll learn the basics of biology, chemistry and even astronomy through hands-on experimentation. Time spent in the classroom can spark a lifelong interest in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, which will serve students well long after they’ve left school.

To capture students’ attention, teachers need to acquire the right science classroom supplies—on increasingly tight budgets. To make this easier, we’ve rounded up affordable science teacher supplies to help you spark a love of learning in the coming school year and beyond.

5 science teacher supplies to stock in your classroom

1. Stimulating activities

There are many ways to demonstrate scientific theories in the classroom. When creating a lesson plan, be sure to include activities that give your students a chance to explore the subject beyond what their textbooks offer. For younger grades, STEM educational toys like terrariums are a fun way to introduce concepts like ecosystems. For slightly older students, you can’t go wrong with the classic volcano experiment, whether you build from scratch or use a kit.

Teenagers may not be as easily impressed, but there’s no shortage of STEM materials for classrooms designed for middle and high school levels. For example, molecular models can aid in learning organic chemistry and can be reused year after year. No matter what grade or type of science you teach, what’s important is giving your students some hands-on experience. Remember: show, don’t just tell.

2. Protective gear

At the high school level, science labs can expose students to chemicals, fumes and open flames, which makes stocking protective gear a priority. Students should have access to safety goggles, gloves and lab coats, so be sure to have enough for everyone—and a few extras to replace the items that will surely get lost or destroyed over the course of the school year.

You’ll also want to make sure that you have first aid kits and a fire extinguisher on hand. Ideally, you’ll never need to use them, but point out their locations on the first day of class.

3. Organizational aids

Labs, science projects, pop quizzes, STEM classroom supplies, worksheets—there’s a lot to keep track of when you’re a science teacher. Without the right organizational system in place, you might end up wasting precious class time tracking down those planetary models and last week’s homework.

A simple and inexpensive solution like a portable file organizer can help you keep your paperwork in order. For larger items, use stackable storage bins to save on floor space. Make sure everything is carefully labeled and easy to retrieve. If you’re performing experiments in the field, a rolling storage cart keeps everything together. By starting the school year with effective organization, you’re setting yourself and your students up for success.

4. Imaginative decor

An inspirational classroom decor can set the tone for each lesson, so get creative when you’re decorating those walls. Star charts, diagrams and colorful, informational posters are a great place to start.

Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine in your desk decorations, either. Keep it topical with quirky anatomical models. If you’re crafty, apply those skills to your classroom door so students know exactly what they’re getting into. Think about what you love about science and choose decor that embodies that feeling. If that passion shines through, your students will see it.

5. Handy tools

The last thing you’ll need in your science teacher’s toolkit is a literal toolkit. Tools may not be the most obvious classroom science supplies, but you’ll want to at least keep the basics like screwdrivers, a wrench and a hammer nearby—you never know when those out-of-the-box science projects will require assembly. You’ll also find yourself reaching for the measuring tape more than you think.

It doesn’t have to be a full toolbox; look for a relatively compact kit you can easily store under a desk or in a closet. The last thing you want is to hold up a lesson while you try to track down a pair of pliers from the janitor’s closet.

Make science fun with Walmart Business

When it’s time to stock up on science teacher supplies, Walmart Business can help. Our classroom collection helps teachers prepare for the coming school year and keep students engaged with a variety of fun activities, crafting supplies and more.

Already have an account? Level up your savings with a Walmart Business+ membership. You’ll get free shipping,¹ free delivery from local stores on orders over $35² and 2% back in Walmart Business Rewards,³ letting you further invest in your classroom. That could add up to savings of over $500 a year!⁴ Click here to learn more.

¹ Excludes most Marketplace items, freight and certain location surcharges.

² Rewards can only be used toward future purchases on Walmart Business. Additional terms apply. 

³ Excludes most Marketplace items, freight and certain location surcharges.

⁴ Savings based on 1 free $35+ delivery order vs. $9.95 fee and 1 free shipping order under $35 vs. $6.99 fee biweekly, plus 2% Walmart Business Rewards on monthly order >$250 (average value of $400).