FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQ's from BHS Students
How do I determine if I have a good topic for research?
The first step would be to brainstorm some ideas for your Capstone project based on your interests. Pay attention to what types of articles you are most interested in reading, what your hobbies are, and what topics you are most curious about. Take some time to talk to teachers, peers, and friends about your interests to help choose a topic. Next step would be to pick a topic that you are most interested in researching. Finally, do some research on the topic to see if the topic has enough resources and form your essential question.
Is there such a thing as a good/bad topic?
No!! You are looking to answer a question about your topic that requires research and is not easily answered. Make sure you pick a topic that interests you and you are curious to learn about. We have had topics that are covered often and you may be asked to form an essential question that has not been asked frequently.
Will our Capstone topic determine what field of study we go into in the future?
Choosing a Capstone topic is based on a student's interests like neuroscience, music production, volunteering, or sports. Picking a topic that you are passionate about is the goal for a student's Capstone research. This could connect to a possible career path but not necessarily, it is your choice.
I keep hearing "essential question" so I wanted to know what that was?
The "essential question" is the overarching question that addresses the topic of your research. This question will be the focus of your research and you will work to answer the question within your presentation. Some examples of essential questions are, "How do advancements in technology and pedagogy influence the design of future classrooms?" and "How will listening to music have the ability to increase personal productivity as well as benefit the human body?".
Can I change my topic?
Yes! You can change your topic between now and your Capstone course start. You will also have time to adjust or change the topic in the first few rotations of the course if needed. Your Capstone teacher will help you with this as needed.
Do we practice public speaking?
In the weeks leading up to your presentation you will first do some public speaking activities to help get over any distracting habits you may have and help you feel more comfortable. Then you will practice presenting parts and your whole presentation prior to the exhibition day.
How many people will watch our presentation?
This will depend but usually there are 5 to 10 people in the room when you present. You will also have time at your exhibit and your deliverable will be looked at in the weeks leading up to exhibition day.