<p>Well, the deadline was initially June first but it's been extended to August 1st (at least for my school) and I essentially have a dilemma on my hands.</p>
<p>The Cambridge Capstone Program is going on a trial run next year and is only open to rising juniors (sophomores that are going to juniors... I think I got that right) in 15 schools across the US. I happen to be in one of the pilot schools. Basically it's a collaboration between the College Board and Cambridge University to give kids more experience with analysis and research. Here's the full press release:
The</a> College Board and University of Cambridge International Examinations Announce New Education Program for High School Students</p>
<p>But for those of you who don't want to read through all of that, I'll just quote some excerpts:</p>
<p>"</p>
<p>The College Board is delighted to collaborate with University of Cambridge International Examinations to create a program which engages high school students in some of the most challenging issues facing our world today, said Trevor Packer, senior vice president of Advanced Placement and College Readiness for the College Board. The AP | Cambridge Capstone program with its concentration on research methodology, global issues and challenges, and team collaboration will enable motivated high school students to take their advanced studies to the next level.</p>
<p>About the AP | Cambridge Capstone Program and Credential</p>
<p>The AP | Cambridge Capstone Program is composed of:</p>
<p>The AP | Cambridge Interdisciplinary Investigations and Critical Reasoning Seminar, taken in the 11th grade. It focuses on developing inquiry skills through writing, researching, and team projects by exploring several topics of global relevance. Topics are selected by the individual school and are drawn from a list that includes the following: alternatives to oil; endangered cultures; global climate change; integration and multiculturalism; medical ethics and priorities.
Students in the Seminar Course are assessed through a written exam, a presentation and a team project.
The AP | Cambridge Capstone Research Project, taken in the 12th grade. It culminates in a 4,500- to 5,000-word academic paper, which enables students to develop practical skills in research methodology and the skills to manage a sustained piece of academic work. Students are evaluated on their ability to design, plan and manage a research project; collect and analyze information; evaluate and make reasoned judgments; and communicate their findings and conclusions.
AP courses (typically taken in 11th and 12th grades) of a students own choice.</p>
<p>At MIT, we seek to develop the next generation of creative thinkers and leaders in this global society. Students who have challenged themselves with a rigorous curriculum, developed strong critical thinking skills, and have experience in interdisciplinary learning in a global context will be in a good position to take advantage of our educational opportunities. Based on what Ive seen, I believe the AP | Cambridge Capstone program will be an excellent preparation for success.</p>
<p> Stuart Schmill, Dean of Admissions, Massachusetts Institute of Technology </p>
<p>"</p>
<p>My original schedule for junior year:
AP Physics C
AP Chem
AP Calc BC
AP Art History
AP US History
AP English Language</p>
<p>Overload. Yeah. I've been thinking of dropping AP Art for this opportunity, and it gives me a slack class.</p>
<p>PROS:
My old history teacher supervises the program, and he's a total bro.</p>
<p>I get a slack class.</p>
<p>I'm genuinely interested in research and paper-writing skills. Will definitely be useful as I'm a prospective science major.</p>
<p>MIT approval! Woo!</p>
<p>Exclusivity. 1 out 15 schools in the COUNTRY... dude.</p>
<p>CONS:
Never trust trial runs.</p>
<p>The program may be total and utter bogus.</p>
<p>I have to drop an AP class (lol, I guess I'm kind of split with the drop AP thing).</p>
<p>Thanks for bearing with me through a long post. So ... what's the verdict?</p>