Marshall McLuhan Catholic Secondary School proudly hosted the McLuhan Science Fair 2026 on March 2 and 3, during which approximately 350 students presented over 140 innovative projects. This event highlighted the school’s strong commitment to fostering excellence in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education.
Throughout the 2-day showcase, students demonstrated exceptional dedication, diligence, and intellectual curiosity. Their work exemplified high levels of critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, reflecting the core principles of inquiry-based learning. The breadth and quality of the projects underscored students’ ability to engage deeply with complex concepts while applying interdisciplinary approaches.
Here are the results of the McLuhan Science Fair 2026:
Grade 9
1st Place: Kayden D. and Lucas C. Project: Hydropower vs. Solar Power: A Comparative Study
2nd Place: Nicolas D. and David I. Project: Optical Illusions: The Infinity Mirror
3rd Place: Ajsi C. and Alexi A. Project: Life on Mars
4th Place: Matteo A. and Johann B. Project: Hear Me Out: Using Vocal Nuances to Identify Human Attributes
Grade 10
1st Place: Elena B. and Olivia L. Project: How Can AI Become More Efficient?
2nd Place: Shaun H. Project: Amateur Radio Communication When Cell and Power Networks
3rd Place: Ishtvan C. and Jj O. Project: AI Dependence and Brain Development
4th Place: Daphne D. Project: Adapting Piezoelectric floor technology in Canadian Public Spaces
Grade 11
1st Place: Mickle L. Project: Attention Integrated Motor Control System
2nd Place: Elena S. Project: Martian - Machine-Learning Assisted Radiation Tracking with Intelligent Alerting Network
3rd Place: Sonya L. and Lauren N. Project: Evaluating the Feasibility of Carbon-Based Filters for CO₂ in Air Pollutant Capture - Carbon-Based Filter for CO₂ Air Capture
4th Place: Victoria P. and Princess R. Project: Multi-Indicator Smart Wound Dressing for Early Infection Screening
Projects with Distinctions
Excellence in Experimental Design - Frances L. and Hanako R. Project: The Effect of Different Colours and Temperatures of Light on the Brain
The project with Distinguished Technology Design: Aidan S. Project: Man vs. Machine - Microscopic Measurements
Most Original Project: Rachel Z. and Isabella Z. Project: Medicare Patient Records System
The most Distinguished Quantitative Research - Ken M., Gian C. and Gian C. Project: Feel the Beat
8 Projects will be presenting McLuhan at the Toronto Science Fair on March 28, 2026.
Here are a few students’ reflections on the projects’ experiences:
"The McLuhan Science Fair was a very enjoyable experience where I learnt so much about students' mental health right here at Marshall McLuhan. Through the survey, data collection and study research, I was able to identify factors that negatively affected students' mental health. While the results were concerning, it was not surprising, as the statistics followed similar trends to other surveys conducted around Canada. Factors that play a key role in students' mental health in today's world include, but are not limited to, academics, social media, and personal factors." - Franz. L.
"Doing the science project was an enriching experience because I got to try something new and work with real rose petals. It was interesting to see how a simple idea like soaking and simmering petals could actually turn into a light perfume. I liked watching each step come together, and it felt good to make experimental research on my own. Even though the scent was softer than I expected, I still learned a lot about how natural perfumes are made and how small changes can affect the results. Overall, the project was enjoyable and helped me understand the process better." - Adekemi. O.
"Participating in the McLuhan Science Fair was fun and a great experience overall; it helped me better understand the usage of biodegradable products, and how we can protect the environment by doing the "little" things. Through researching scientific resources and environmental reports, I learned how biodegradable products are more efficient, better lasting, and safer for the environment. In conclusion, I can confidently say that biodegradable products are more efficient and better for the environment. Additionally, it showed me how important small environmental choices are for the environment." - Mark. T.
"It was truly an honour to participate in the Marshall McLuhan Science Fair. Overall, I really enjoyed the experience. It was highly educational, and I learned a lot not only from working on my own project but also from seeing the other students' projects. Before doing my project on banking a basketball shot, I was rarely able to make many shots at all. However, after learning the science of the proper steps and techniques, I improved and am now able to enjoy playing the sport much more. This project was both educational and fun for me. I am excited to continue learning and can't wait for next year’s science fair." - Clara. B.
"Getting the opportunity to compete in the incredible McLuhan Science fair was an amazing experience. Through the innovative research approach, I was able to better understand my topic on Injury prevention, benefit myself and my overall well being. In conclusion, I believe that the McLuhan Science Fair is a great overall experience that everyone should take pride, our hard work and immense research contributed to a beautiful event for everyone." - Gabriel. C.
Overall, the Science Fair was a testament to the academic excellence and innovative spirit of McLuhan students, whose projects were not only intellectually rigorous but also engaging, inspiring, and reflective of a vibrant learning community.
