AP Research is the second year in the AP Capstone program.
Click on the link for general course information: AP Research Course Overview
AP Research is designed to allow students to dive into an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Students further develop the skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by understanding research methods; employing ethical research practices; and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information as they address a research question. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000-5,000 words and a presentation with an oral defense during which the student answers questions about their academic paper.
In the AP Research course, students will:
Employ research and inquiry methodology to develop, manage, and conduct an in-depth study or investigation of an area of student’s own interest, culminating in a 4,000-5,000 word paper.
Present (using appropriate media), and defend the research design, approach, and findings.
Document and reflect upon the research process and communication with mentor using a research log.
While the topic of each research study will vary, the course requires students to plan and conduct a study or investigation, including:
Investigating relevant topics, composing insightful problem statements, or developing compelling research questions (considering scope) to extend thinking
Demonstrating perseverance through setting goals, managing time, and working independently on a long-term project
Identifying, applying, and implementing appropriate methods for research and data collection
Accessing information using effective strategies
Evaluating the relevance and credibility of information from sources and data
Reading a bibliography for the purpose of understanding that it is a source for other research and for determining context, credibility, and scope
Attributing knowledge and ideas accurately and ethically, using an appropriate citation style
Evaluating strengths and weaknesses of others’ inquiries and studies