Why does South offer the AP Capstone program?
South Anchorage High School seeks to provide opportunities for our students to think critically, work collaboratively and communicate effectively about the world around them. We believe the AP Capstone program is one avenue that will provide this experience for our students.
South is one of more than 100 schools world-wide to implement AP Capstone – an innovative program that allows students to engage in the rigorous development of skills critical for success in college: inquiry, research, collaboration, and writing. The program includes a two-course sequence: AP Seminar and AP Research. Developed in response to feedback from higher education faculty and college admission officers, AP Capstone complements the in-depth, subject-specific rigor of AP courses and exams.
How will the AP Capstone Seminar and Research Project prepare students for success in college?
By taking the AP Capstone two-course sequence of AP Seminar and AP Research, along with four AP courses, students have the opportunity to explore issues of interest to them, while developing the analytic, research, problem-solving, and communication skills that college faculty have stated are critical to success in college.
How will South assign credit for this course?
AP Seminar (year 1) will provide students with one weighted elective or one weighted English credit.
AP Research (year 2) will provide one weighted elective credit.
What is required to earn the AP Capstone Diploma?
Students who earn scores of 3 or higher on the AP Seminar and AP Research exams and scores of 3 or higher on four additional AP exams of their choosing will receive the AP Capstone Diploma.
How will this course be graded and assessed at South?
In AP Seminar (year one), students will be assessed for their AP score through a team project and presentation, a research-based essay and presentation, and a written AP exam given during AP exams at the end of the year. These assessments are internally assessed and externally validated. In addition, students will complete a series of skills-based activities throughout the year under the guidance and direction of the instructor. These assignments are not restricted to any traditional means of assessment. However, they will be carefully explained in the course syllabus and will be graded by the course instructor.
In AP Research (year two), students will develop and compose an academic thesis which must be approved by their teacher and the College Board. They will be required to research and write about this thesis during the year. Because the research paper and presentation and oral defense are part of students’ AP score, they may not be graded by the instructor. Instead, the grade in AP Research is earned through obvious vigorous participation in the course as seen through the Process and Reflection Portfolio.
Does the AP Capstone program accept students who might not be inclined to take AP courses?
Yes. AP Capstone provides a diverse and integrated academic experience. It is designed to propel a variety of students towards high achievement. For students who earn the AP Capstone Diploma, the program complements the discipline-specific rigor of AP coursework and signifies their outstanding academic achievement as well as the attainment of college-level research skills. Alternatively, because of the focus of the AP Capstone program on the core academic skills needed for college success, students who only pursue the two AP Capstone courses can earn the AP Seminar & Research Certificate™ – signifying that they have attained college-level academic and research skills.
Will colleges and universities award credit for this course?
The AP Capstone Diploma™ is increasingly recognized in admissions by higher education institutions around the world. Many colleges and universities offer credit and/or placement for a qualifying score in AP Seminar, AP Research, or both. Find colleges and universities that offer credit or placement for AP scores at the AP Credit Policy Search.