the spark program
the mission
Every student has numerous "sparks of genius” within. A spark starts as an interest, talent or strength, and is cultivated with awareness and purpose. The exploration of one spark leads to another. The Spark Project offers students a process for cultivating sparks that we hope they will turn to over and over in their lives.
what is the spark project?
The project is a significant piece of work that is the product of each student’s own initiative and creativity. Students pursue an area of personal interest investigating a topic, establishing a plan, taking action to create a product, and reflecting on the process. Students share their products and experiences throughout the process with the school community at a virtual exhibition.
students can:
- participate in sustained, self-directed inquiry
- generate creative new insights and develop deeper understandings through in-depth investigation.
- demonstrate the skills, attitudes, and knowledge required to complete a project over an extended period of time.
- communicate effectively in a variety of situations.
- demonstrate responsible actions through, or as a result of, learning.
- appreciate the process of learning and take pride in their actions.
examples of spark projects
- an original work of art: painting, sculpture, movie, dance, or music
- a science experiment
- a piece of literary fiction, collection of short stories, poetry, novella, or play
- an invention or specifically designed object
- a community service activity
- a video or multimedia presentation
- a presentation of a developed business, or organizational plan for a company, concept, or community organization
- a written piece of work on a social or psychological topic
- the pursuit of a certification