MARS SPARKS
The MARS/WARS Outreach Program, MARS SPARKS (Students Promoting Arts, Robotics, Knowledge, and STEM), was created during the 2022 season by the Business Services Team. The program’s goal is to spread awareness of FIRST and the many STEAM fields to local youth and community groups. MARS SPARKS offers engaging, hands-on activities that introduce children to mechanical design, modeling, programming, electrical systems, and marketing. Participants also have the opportunity to drive minibots and see the team’s robot from the current season in action.
MARS SPARKS is one of the many ways the MARS/WARS team connects with and gives back to the community. Each year, the program continues to grow, reaching more grade levels and organizations throughout the area. Groups such as Metamora, Germantown, Cub Scouts, and Girl Scouts have participated in the program, consistently providing incredible feedback. Most importantly, the students who take part leave excited, inspired, and eager to learn more.
MARS SPARKS STATIONS
Business: Participants will take part in a fun flashcard game where they guess the brand based on its logo. This activity highlights the importance of strong branding and the value of having a recognizable logo. After the game, students can unwind by designing and coloring their own paper T-shirt, allowing for creativity while reinforcing branding concepts.
Modeling: Participants will use a program called Tinker cad, an easy-to-use 3D modeling platform designed for beginners. Students follow a guided booklet with challenges that vary in difficulty based on grade level. After completing the activities, they are encouraged to explore the program freely and express their creativity by playing around.
Mechanical: Participants use Legos pieces to build a variety of simple gear systems. A step-by-step booklet guides them through the building process, with gear designs that increase in difficulty based on the option they choose. This activity helps students understand basic mechanical concepts while encouraging hands-on problem-solving.
Electrical: Participants use a circuit-building toy called Snap Circuits to create working electrical systems. A guided booklet provides pictures of different circuit options for students to build. This hands-on activity allows kids to see their creations come to life, making learning about electricity both fun and engaging
Programming: The kids use a program called MakeCode, along with a booklet that guides them step by step on what to do and how to place the pieces to complete each task. They enjoy seeing the results of their hard work when everything comes together and the fun little tune or command runs successfully.
