Westfield High – AP Capstone 2: Research

Mar 2026 · 2nd Semester

AP Research allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Students design, plan, and conduct a yearlong mentored investigation addressing a research question of their choosing. The course allows them to further the skills they acquired in the AP Seminar course by employing research methods and ethical research practices, and by analyzing and synthesizing information as they address a research question. Students must: introduce and contextualize their research question; synthesize information and perspectives related to the research question; explain the research method; analyze and interpret the evidence; illustrate a cogent argument based on a clear, evidence-based line of reasoning; reflect on the research project and the implications and limitations of the conclusion(s) reached; and acknowledge and cite sources. Students who choose to take the Advanced Placement examination in AP Capstone may earn college credit if a qualifying score is achieved.