About SPARK Program
Quick Links
The SPARK Program is designed to improve numeracy skills in elementary students (grades 4 – 5) through fun and interactive activities.
The program consists of 8 two-hour workshops facilitated by instructors and volunteers.
Each session, students will complete a different project using online software such as Tinkercad, Scratch, and Canva. Projects include coding games, constructing 3D models, creating slime while learning about unit conversion, and more.
Through the various projects, students will build on their numeracy fundamentals in the areas of number sense and numeration, geometry, and algebra, with a focus on real-life application, bringing new context and meaning to math principles.
The SPARK Program is available for free through the following community partners:
The SPARK Program is proudly funded by the Hamilton Community Foundation’s ABACUS LiftOff Grant and is offered in partnership with McMaster University – Department of Math and Stats!
Workshop Topics
1. Introduction
Introduction to program —Explore mathematical logic and computer science concepts.
2. Coordinates & Constellations
Learn spatial reasoning and coordinate graphing by using Desmos to recreate constellations like Ursa Major.
3. Measurements with Slime
Learn about measurements and conversions and put those skills to the test by creating the strechiest slime.
4. Shoot for The Stars
Design a rocket-asteroid game using Scratch, exploring geometric concepts like angles and the Cartesian plane.
5. Third Dimension
Learn Geometry and how to use the program Tinkercad to construct a 3D model and print it out.
6. Code your Own Traffic Lights
Design and code a simulated traffic light circuit using Arduino, and learn about timed sequences, LED control, and unit conversions for time!
7. Operator Olympics
Explore basic math operators through real-life examples, hands-on activities, and an exciting Scratch game.
8. Math-Scape Room
Apply precious learning in a collaborative escape room challenge.
Upcoming Workshops
Spring Block 2025
We are proud to announce that the 2025 Spring Block will take place in partnership with the Hamilton Public Library. The program will be held at two branches in Hamilton — Central and Saltfleet. For any questions or registration issues, please contact the coordinator of the SPARK Program, Olanrewaju Akinola, at 778-636-9076, Monday – Friday from 9AM – 6PM.
Central Branch
- Address: 55 York Blvd, Hamilton, ON L8N 4E4
- Date and Time: Every Thursday, from May 1 – June 19, 2025, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Cost: FREE! Only 20 spots available for each workshop
- Registration: Click “register” below
Saltfleet Branch
- Address: 131 Gray Rd, Stoney Creek, ON L8G 3V3
- Date and Time: Every Tuesday, from April 29 – June 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Cost: FREE! Only 20 spots available for each workshop
- Registration: Click “register” below
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Who can sign up for the Spark Program?
Students in Grades 4 - 5 can sign up.
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Is there a fee to register?
This program is completely FREE of cost, thanks to the Hamilton Community Foundation's ABACUS LiftOff Grant.
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Where do the sessions take place?
The sessions take place in person at the various community organizations listed above.
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I’ve got questions, what do I do?
Contact our SPARK Program Coordinator, Olanrewaju Akinola at 778-636-9076, from Monday - Friday, 9AM-6PM.