On December 2, 2025, The University of Waterloo Engineering Outreach will be visiting all 3 physics classes at GCVI during their regular class time. They will be providing a hands-on workshop that connects Magnetism and Coding. Below is a description and links to the grade 11 and 12 curriculum.
Students will gain a deeper understanding of earth’s magnetic field and how it interacts with navigation devices such as compasses. They will then apply this knowledge by programming a digital compass in Python using a Micro:bit. The goal is to combine principles of magnetism and coding to create a functional device that can detect direction, similar to how a traditional compass works. By the end of this workshop, students will be able to explain how earth’s magnetic field is used in technology, including its environmental and social applications. They will also demonstrate the ability to apply constants, Boolean operators, comparison operators, and correct syntax in programming.
Curriculum Links:
SPH3U: Scientific Investigation Skills and Career Exploration (A2.1), Electricity and Magnetism (F2.4)
SPH4U: Scientific Investigation Skills and Career Exploration (A2.1), Gravitational, Electrical, and Magnetic Fields (D1.1, D1.2, D3.3)