Active engagement in the classroom is one of the best tools available for overcoming conceptual difficulties. Science educators agree that students of all ages learn more by participating actively in the interpretation of scientific phenomena (NAS 2003; NSF 1998). In this article, the authors describe demonstrations in class using paper wads as an example of active learning in the chemistry classroom. The examples described here represent a useful and fun way to introduce students to two traditionally difficult subjects in general chemistry--equilibrium and reaction mechanisms. These very active demonstrations give everyone a chance to play in the classroom. Most importantly, these activities give students another opportunity to learn difficult concepts and to challenge strongly held misconceptions in the subjects.