Finally Make Ionic Bonding Click — For Every Student
Lead(IV) Chloride
"There were audible 'gasps' of learning!"
Danielle
A teacher in Arizona
Why Students Struggle With Ionic Bonding — and How We Fix It
The Problem:
For years, I struggled to help students truly understand ionic compound ratios and write the correct chemical formulas. No matter how many ways I explained it, many students still didn’t “get it” — and it showed in their grades, their confidence, and their frustration.
The Turning Point:
Out of sheer desperation, I started building physical models — first from paper, then wood, then a wild mix of materials like snaps and Velcro. Prototype after prototype failed. But I kept refining — until finally, I created a model that made ionic bonding click for students. The final design worked so well in the classroom that I secured U.S. patent protection to preserve its unique structure and teaching power.
The students could see the charge balance.
They could feel the ratios.
And for the first time, they truly understood.
Confusion to Mastery — Instantly See Ionic Ratios and Net Charges
Features & Benefits
✅ Customizable Ion Labels
Each disc is blank so you can apply any of the 160 included ion stickers — create nearly any compound, from NaCl to aluminum sulfate.
✅ Durable, Hands-On Design
Made from tough ABS plastic, the discs are built to withstand repeated student use — no flimsy paper cutouts here.
✅ Teaches Charge Balance Visually
Students see why ionic compounds must have a net charge of zero — no more memorizing formulas without understanding.
✅ Works for Simple and Complex Compounds
Use it to build binary salts, polyatomic compounds, and even transition metal examples.
✅ Saves Class Time While Boosting Comprehension
Instead of re-explaining abstract concepts, this model lets students discover them for themselves — in minutes.
✅ Compact and Flexible
Easy to store, easy to carry, and perfect for individual or small-group work. Great for classrooms, tutoring, or homeschooling.
Build Any Ion; Build Any Compound
"There were audible 'gasps' of learning!"
Danielle — Chem Teacher in Arizona
"Hi Ross! I just wanted to tell you that I love the ion sets!!! The kids have really learned the concept behind balanced charges in ionic compounds. For years I have pushed this concept instead of the cross multiplying route because that’s a set of instructions rather than understanding the charge balance. Love these! Thank you so much!"
First comments from general chemistry students:
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Student Survey feedback totals from 5 general chemistry classes
Trusted by Experienced Educators
I’ve been fortunate to be a part of the development of this product from its early days. To get to the point: I gave my students a pre-assessment about ions and ionic compounds. We engaged in some simple hands-on activities with limited direction. I gave my students the post-assessment. Within two class periods, students had practically mastered the concept! I mean, students of varying skill levels! It was mind-blowing! As a veteran educator of almost 20 years, I knew that this product was going to be a winner. I’m used to teaching all things about ionic compounds with varying manipulatives such as Legos, index cards, paper cut outs, and other tools that are temporal, easily damaged, and not quite as effective as this tool. The ease of use, versatility, and effective design all make this ionic disc model kit worth every dime! I cannot wait to get my hands on the deluxe kit!
— Dr. Shaneka Bullins
Virtual Prototype
A student demonstrating how an ionic compound has to have a net zero charge.
The Ionic Bond Model works with younger students too! Look at what Jae who is only 11 and in the sixth grade said.
"I loved using Mr. Russ’s model kit! It was easy to use, and when I felt challenged, I didn’t want to give up! I wanted to keep trying to make sense of what I was learning. My mom was reminding me that the charge should be zero so all of the pieces should be filled. When I figured out some of the hardest compounds, I was so proud of myself! Even when the time was up, I wanted to keep building models! I love this ionic compound disc model kit! It makes me feel smart! I was able to go back to school and tell my friends and teachers that I learned about chemistry stuff like I was in high school!"
One of the Best Visual Aids I’ve Ever Used
“This kit absolutely delivers… One of the best visual aids I’ve used to teach ionic bonding and charge balance.”
— Dr. Shaneka Bullins, 5-Star Review (Deluxe Set)
The full review is at the Deluxe Set product page.
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? Ready to Bring Hands-On Ionic Bonding to Life?
You have three easy ways to get started:
? Shop Starter Set on Amazon
Perfect for individuals, homeschoolers, or small classes.
? Shop Full Kits for Your Classroom
See Basic, Intermediate, Deluxe models, and more.
? Still Have Questions
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