Waxhaw Elementary – AP Research (Selected Schools)

Apr 2026 · 2nd Semester

Prerequisite: AP Seminar AP Research, the second course in the AP Capstone experience, allows students to deeply explore the academic topic, problem, issue, or idea of individual interest. Students design, plan and implement a yearlong investigation to address a research question. Through this inquiry, they further the skills they acquired in the AP Seminar course by learning research methodology, employing ethical research practices and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. Students reflect on their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of their scholarly work through a process and reflection portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of approximately 4000-5000 words (accompanied by a performance, exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense.