I’m not even sure if this question should go in this category, but I’m facing a dilemma about what classes to take next year. My main concern is for two research-oriented classes that I’m debating about. My school is offering the AP Capstone Program (for those of you that don’t know its a diploma program with two year-long classes, AP Seminar followed by AP Research) for the first time. But there’s also this other class called Intro to science research and engineering, which was started last year. The second class is much more independent and project-based, but the first is obviously AP.
AP Research is more of what i’m interested in but the prerequisite for this is AP Seminar, which seems like it’s more english/social studies-oriented. I may be wrong but can anyone who’s actually done the program tell me more about it? How was the class for you (curriculum-wise)? I’m really interested in doing science research and I will be conducting a project next year, no matter what classes I take, but I’m worried that AP seminar might just add to my workload instead of giving me time to work on it at school, which is what I would like to do. Also, which one would colleges give more value to? Capstone program or a Sci/Eng class?
hello! Im a junior in high school currently enrolled in the AP Seminar course (first year it has been offered at my school). I was equally as hesitant in deciding whether or not to take the course but im glad i did. It is indeed english based, as we write a fair bit and most of the grade is research papers, but it isn’t necessarily a heavy workload of “busy work”. The first semester was spent practicing research skills, doing small activities, and analyzing sources/ articles etc. We also did a practice group research project which includes an individual paper, group paper, and 8-10 minute power point presentation with a followup on the spot “interview question”. We just finished the final “real” group project and submitted it for final grade as it is a portion of our AP score. We are now doing the last project of the year, which is another very similar research project, but individual rather than a group. Next year is basically going to be the same- a yearlong individual thesis style research paper/project. Overall, what i would have to say about the program is that it is indeed very interesting and rewarding. If you are interested in science/research, this class would be very helpful, as it teaches you useful research skills, and how to effectively synthesize information, analyze credibility, compile a research paper etc. It is also pretty independent, meaning you’ll have time in class to work on projects, but you have to be responsible enough to work by yourself and with your group outside of school as well. Its not necessarily an extremely difficult class but you will have to work and be interested and good at reading and writing.
Overall, if writing isn’t really your thing and your more interested in the science based research class, id say go for it, however, i believe Capstone is a great program that really outfits you with a lot of real world skills, and i think taking it (esp. since only a handful of schools offer it) is definitely going to benefit you in the long run.
Hope this helps!(: