Canterbury’s Years 5-6 Spark Program | Critical & Creative Thinking

Semester 1, 2023 Spark Topic | Critical & Creative Thinking

Thinking that is productive, purposeful and intentional is at the centre of effective learning.

By practising critical and creative thinking, students can solve problems and devise innovative ideas to do so.

Participants follow the design process as they identify a problem, then investigate and research the issues.

They develop their ideas, then plan and create solutions that will be evaluated and adapted based on testing.

Their critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills are applied to real-world issues that concern them, which may include freshwater access, environmental pollution or sustainable energy.

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What is SPARK?

SPARK is an elective-based ‘hands-on’ curriculum for Years 5 and 6 students that is unique to Canterbury.

Each semester our students choose a special subject to study.

Then students from both year levels are combined into the same classroom and taught by relevant staff.

SPARK is about building curiosity, encouraging students to try something new, and providing an exceptional opportunity for them to embark on their own learning journey, as part of their ‘World Ready’ Canterbury education.

When does SPARK occur?

SPARK happens once per week, with students encouraged to continue their learning beyond the classroom.

How does SPARK link to the curriculum?

SPARK focuses on the Australian Curriculum’s general capabilities, looking at critical and creative thinking, personal and social capability, ethical understanding and intercultural understanding.

How can I see my child’s learning?

The Junior School hosts a learning exhibition at the end of each semester, where all students will have something to exhibit based on their SPARK sessions.