Laboratory experiments for the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles introduce students to the unique properties of nanomaterials. Noble metal nanoparticles are synthesized with an easy and convenient method that uses simple equipment. Silver nanoparticles were prepared by borohydride reduction of silver nitrate, a method which produces particles with average size of 12 � 2nm, determined by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The plasmon absorbance was at 397 nm. Results were used to design a laboratory experiment in which students synthesize colloidal silver and estimate particle size using visible spectroscopy. This experiment is used by Science in Motion, a van project that takes experiments to public schools. Copper nanoparticles were prepared by reduction of copper(II) sulfate in aqueous solution with: i) borohydride and potassium iodide as a protecting agent, ii) reducing sugars. The synthesized nanoparticles are characterized by easyscan AFM and UV-VIS spectroscopy. The work to develop a laboratory experiment for synthesis of copper nanoparticles is in progress.