Senior Projects

Research Paper

Seniors select an approved topic and write a research paper; successful completion is required for graduation. During this phase, the skills applied include things such as knowledge acquisition, information/media literacy, validation, credibility and variety of sources, sorting, and selecting appropriate information, writing skills, research skills, and 21st Century technology skills. Because students choose their own topics, Senior Project® papers are as diverse as the students’ interests (e.g., censorship in public education, effective online marketing strategies, robotic prosthetics, effective solutions related to the homeless).

÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷

Portfolio

Before the judges listen to a senior’s presentation, they preview the senior’s portfolio, a collection of process pieces as well as the final showcase of the student’s completed SeniorProject® work that can be either hard copy or digital. While the portfolio is used by the judges to help guide their questioning, it is also often a valued document that students take as they exit high school.

Comprehensive Senior Project®portfolios, whether they are hard copy or digital, contain models that can be used in the job and college application process, i.e., resumes, letter of introduction, self- evaluations.

Project

During the project phase, students apply the knowledge gained during their research by defining, designing, and producing a related project. For example, a student studying the advances in digital photography chooses to take photography lessons and display his collected work in a school art gallery. Because the projects must reflect a learning stretch, this phase of the Senior Project®process offers students a unique blend of real-world experiences combined with the knowledge and skills learned in school. The project phase’s ‘learning stretch’ requires agolden ratio of challenge and ability, hands-on learning in a real-world context. Though success is probable, it cannot be guaranteed. Student application of skills, the quest for quality, and the ability to apply and use appropriate information, as well as the demonstration of time management, problem solving, effective communication, and perseverance are key characteristics impacting the senior’s success.

÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷

Presentation

The final phase, the Senior Boards, requires seniors to formally speak to a board of judges from both the staff and the community. The formal speech is followed by an informal question and answer session guided by the judges. Seniors must not only demonstrate knowledge of the chosen subject but also show competent speaking skills, ability to infuse technology or other visual aides, and an ability to think on their feet.