Seminar Grading

Daily Grades (20%)

Work completed in class as a part of the research process will be graded as daily work. These assignments will vary but may include short presentations of ideas, brainstorming, evaluation of evidence, or short writing assignments. Each daily grade assignment will prepare you for the major grade components. Also included in the daily grade category is the class blog. All students will participate in the blog to reflect on each topic at the end of the research process.

Major Grades (80%)

Research Portfolio

All researchers keep notes of the process they use to come to a conclusion. You will create a research portfolio to record your work in this class that will be graded at the end of each topic. The portfolio must be a 3-ring binder used only for this class.

Your portfolio must include a separate section for each topic that consists of:

· A reflection on your understanding, opinions, experience with the topic before research

· Deconstruction of the research question

· Explanation of the links to global issues

· A running list of sources that you used (as well as copies when you have them)

· Deconstruction of the sources used

· Evaluation of arguments within the sources

· A thesis statement reconstructing the arguments

· Any written work that is required

Most of this work will be completed in class, so you should compile the portfolio as you move along in a topic. You should also keep a separate section for brainstorming research ideas.

Formal Writings

Researchers communicate their ideas in formal writings. This is an important skill for you to learn and improve throughout your education. Also in preparation for the AP Assessment Components for the AP Cambridge Seminar, you will need these skills. You will write several formal papers throughout the semester. All formal writing assignments must:

· be in MLA format

· include citations for sources

· be printed (no emails)

Presentations

You will also share your ideas in class presentations. Public speaking and being able to effectively communicate to an audience are necessary for success in the 21^st century, no matter what career you choose. This component will consist of both individual and group presentations.

Assessment Objectives

For class assignments and the Capstone Tasks, you will be assessed on the following objectives: