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Faculty of Science

Department of Physics & Astronomy

School Outreach Workshops

Workshops are offered on campus Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday during select weeks during Reading Break and exams, and are delivered by Physics and Astronomy graduate students. All workshops are approximately 1 hour, and cost $169.50 (i.e., $150 + HST). Maximum 30 students per group.

Colours of the Cosmos (Grade 6 – 12)

Unlock the secrets of light in this interactive workshop designed for intermediate students with a curiosity for physics and astronomy. Step into the role of a scientist as you dive into the world of spectroscopy—a powerful tool that reveals the hidden stories of stars and galaxies. Using diffraction gratings, you’ll examine the light from various sources, uncovering the unique “fingerprints” each emits. Discover how these colorful patterns help astronomers determine the composition, motion, and temperature of distant stars. Grade 12 teachers may opt to have their students determine the precise wavelength of a laser beam, combining hands-on experimentation with mathematical analysis. This workshop promises to ignite curiosity and equip students with skills used by real-world scientists.

students doing experiments student presenting with other group of students

Superconductors and Electromagnetism (Grade 9 – 12)

This workshop provides a glimpse into the fascinating world of superconductors and electromagnetism. Through hands-on experiments, students will explore the properties of conductors and insulators, investigate the principles of magnetism, and discover the surprising behavior of eddy currents. A highlight of the workshop is a live demonstration of magnetic levitation of superconductors on a track. When available, students will visit the McMaster Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) Facility, where they’ll learn how scientists use advanced techniques to study materials at the atomic level.

student presenting her experiment

Soft Matter Physics (Grade 7 – 12)

Participants will explore everyday materials such as gels, foams, and polymers, and discover what makes them behave differently from solids and liquids. A unique, interactive modelling activity will provide students insight into one of many tools used to understand the microscopic structure of materials. The workshop connects directly to core physics concepts such as force, energy, and motion, offering a fresh perspective on topics covered in the classroom. Ideal for curious students interested in how physics helps us understand the materials all around us.

student presenting his talk with other students