Use videos to demonstrate the power of chemical reactions. Show students videos or reactions that you can't show them in class, such as the explosive reaction that occurs if magnesium is placed in an atmosphere composed only of carbon dioxide. Once they see what powerful reactions are possible, they will likely find the topic more naturally intriguing.
Create songs to help your students remember chemistry facts. If your students are lovers of music -- as most students are -- take advantage by creating songs that feature chemical elements, or allowing them to do so. With the addition of music to your classroom, you might be able to make chemistry a bit more engaging.
Provide students with creative project options. Instead of constantly testing students' understanding with pencil and paper assessments, allow them to create posters, mini-movies or picture books. With these creative projects, students can show what they know in a naturally more engaging way.
Use games to review chemistry topics. Instead of a simple pre-quiz, create a game show-style challenge for your students, allowing them to compete against one another as they demonstrate their chemistry smarts.