AP Program

This 2-year program is open to rising Sophomores and Juniors.

 

AP Capstone is a College Board program that instructs students in the art of independent research, collaborative teamwork, and communication skills that are increasingly valued by colleges and beyond. AP Capstone includes two required AP courses—AP Seminar and AP Research—and is designed to complement and enhance the discipline specific study in other AP courses. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on four additional AP Exams of their choosing receive the AP Capstone Diploma™. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research but not on four additional AP Exams receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate.

 

AP Seminar is the first year required class and functions as the sophomore Honors English course. It is a year long course that encourages students to investigate real-world issues from multiple perspectives. Students learn to synthesize information from different sources, develop their own lines of reasoning in research-based written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. For additional detail about course objectives, see the English Department course descriptions.

 

AP Research is the second year required class of the series. AP Research course allows students to further their skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by understanding and utilizing research methodology; employing ethical research practices; and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information as they address a research question. Students develop real-world research and maintain a portfolio of their work. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4000-5000 words (accompanied by a performance or exhibition of product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense.