I had an extended conversation with a colleague over the weekend about what he (as a non-solid state chemist) should convey to students about solids.  Happily, this conversation was made all the more pleasant by L'énorme (GIANT cone of Belgian fries) and some good beer.  Here's what I think are the 7 things that students should know about solids coming out of an inorganic chemistry course.  Maybe you don't have time or expertise do all 7, but some is better than none.

The Atomic Trampoline Kit available from ICE:  Guaranteed wow factor!

http://mrsec.wisc.edu/Edetc/background/amorphous/

Memory Metal: I have a stash of 2" long wires so that I can give one to each student.

http://mrsec.wisc.edu/Edetc/background/memmetal/