What do fiber optics, superconductors, memory wire, polymers, solid state devices, ferrofluid, rare earth magnets, carbon-based electroacoustic devices, and photonic crystals have in common? They are all products of materials science research. Many of these advances play an important role in improving daily life; all are capable of enhancing the teaching of physics. This paper will address how topics from materials science can be used to ignite student interest by providing the basis for exciting hands-on activities.