AP Capstone

Definition

AP Capstone is an innovative diploma program from the College Board that emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and academic writing. It consists of two main courses, AP Seminar and AP Research, designed to develop students' abilities to investigate complex topics, evaluate sources, and present coherent arguments. This program not only prepares students for college-level work but also encourages them to engage in independent inquiry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Students who complete both AP Seminar and AP Research can earn the AP Capstone Diploma, which enhances their college applications.
2. The program encourages students to investigate real-world issues and present their findings through presentations and written reports.
3. AP Capstone fosters skills such as collaboration, communication, and time management, which are essential for success in higher education.
4. The curriculum includes diverse instructional strategies that promote engagement and allow students to tailor their research to their interests.
5. Teachers in the AP Capstone program receive specialized training to guide students effectively through the research process.

Review Questions

• How does the AP Capstone program enhance critical thinking and research skills among high school students?
  • The AP Capstone program enhances critical thinking and research skills by providing students with opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary studies and tackle complex problems. Through courses like AP Seminar, students learn to evaluate diverse sources, construct evidence-based arguments, and work collaboratively with peers. These experiences foster a deeper understanding of how to analyze information critically, which is essential for academic success in higher education.
• Evaluate the significance of the AP Capstone Diploma for students applying to colleges and universities.
  • The AP Capstone Diploma holds significant value for students applying to colleges as it showcases their commitment to rigorous academic work and independent research. Colleges often view this diploma as an indicator of a student's preparedness for college-level coursework. Furthermore, it highlights skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication, making candidates more attractive to admissions committees seeking well-rounded students who can thrive in challenging academic environments.
• Analyze how the design of the AP Capstone program aligns with current educational trends towards inquiry-based learning.
  • The design of the AP Capstone program aligns with current educational trends towards inquiry-based learning by emphasizing student-driven investigations into real-world issues. This approach encourages learners to take ownership of their education by formulating their own research questions and engaging in critical analysis. By fostering skills that are increasingly valued in modern education, such as collaboration and communication, AP Capstone prepares students for not just academic success but also for navigating complexities in higher education and beyond.

Related terms

AP Seminar: AP Seminar is the first course in the AP Capstone program, focusing on collaborative teamwork, interdisciplinary research, and effective communication of ideas.

AP Research: AP Research is the second course in the AP Capstone program, where students conduct independent research on a topic of their choice and produce a substantial academic paper.

Critical Thinking: Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information objectively and make reasoned judgments, a key skill developed through the AP Capstone experience.