Each individual needs:

• laptop/computer

Each group needs:

• box of food coloring
• set of measuring spoons
• set of measuring cups
• stirring spoon or stirring rod
• mixing bowl
• glass beaker

For the entire class to share:

• 1 lb. of sodium polyacrylate, available from Amazon (optional)
• Small plastic cups or portion cups
• Some of the following: (Note: These materials are used in the Create section of the investigation.  Because the creation of the gels is an inquiry-based, student-led activity, the students themselves will decide which of those materials to use when they create their gels.  Each group's gel will be different, and will likely contain some different ingredients, based on the plans that each group makes for their gels.)
• gel toothpaste
• gel hand sanitizer
• hair styling gel
• salt
• iron filings
• baking soda
• cornstarch
• flour
• sugar
• vinegar
• lemon juice
• vegetable oil
• miniature marshmallows
• magnets
• flashlight
• circuit materials, such as wires, battery, and a load (optional)
• access to a refrigerator and/or freezer
• chart paper or a dry erase board (for class responses)
• colored pencils
• plain white paper