AP Capstone

Definition

AP Capstone is an innovative program developed by the College Board that combines advanced research, critical thinking, and collaboration to enhance students' academic skills. It consists of two main courses, AP Seminar and AP Research, which together help students explore real-world issues, conduct independent research, and present their findings effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. AP Capstone was introduced to help students develop skills that are essential for college and career success, such as analytical thinking and effective communication.
2. Students who complete both AP Seminar and AP Research can earn the AP Capstone Diploma if they score a 3 or higher on these courses and on four other AP exams.
3. The program emphasizes real-world issues, allowing students to engage with topics that matter to them while learning how to conduct rigorous academic research.
4. AP Capstone fosters collaboration among students through group projects and discussions, enhancing their ability to work in teams—an important skill in both college and the workplace.
5. The AP Capstone program encourages creativity and innovation by allowing students to choose their own research topics, promoting personal investment in their work.

Review Questions

• How does AP Capstone encourage the development of critical thinking skills among students?
  • AP Capstone encourages the development of critical thinking skills by engaging students in the analysis of complex issues through both collaborative projects and individual research. In AP Seminar, students learn to evaluate sources, construct arguments, and consider multiple perspectives on a given topic. This foundation is further reinforced in AP Research, where students conduct independent investigations, requiring them to assess evidence critically and formulate well-reasoned conclusions.
• Evaluate the importance of the AP Capstone Diploma for students pursuing higher education.
  • The AP Capstone Diploma holds significant importance for students aiming for higher education as it demonstrates their ability to undertake rigorous academic challenges. Colleges often recognize this diploma as evidence of a student's preparedness for college-level coursework due to the advanced skills acquired in both AP Seminar and AP Research. Additionally, earning this diploma can enhance a student's college application by showcasing their commitment to academic excellence and independent learning.
• Assess how the structure of the AP Capstone program contributes to students' overall academic growth and future success.
  • The structure of the AP Capstone program contributes greatly to students' academic growth by blending research skills with practical application. Through collaborative learning in AP Seminar, students develop teamwork skills while exploring real-world problems. In AP Research, they take ownership of their learning by selecting topics of interest, conducting extensive research, and presenting their findings. This dual approach not only enhances their analytical abilities but also prepares them for future academic challenges and career opportunities by instilling confidence in their research capabilities.

Related terms

AP Seminar:

A foundational course in the AP Capstone program that introduces students to the skills of research, argumentation, and presentation through team projects and individual research.

AP Research: The second course in the AP Capstone program where students undertake an independent research project that culminates in a scholarly paper and a presentation.

College Readiness: The level of preparation a high school student needs to succeed in college-level courses, which is significantly enhanced by the skills developed in the AP Capstone program.