The AP Seminar and Research courses in Manville High School develop and practice research and communication skills. To go further in-depth, in AP Seminar students learn about the different perspectives a topic can have and how to look deeper into them. AP Research is made up of only one, year-long, investigation resulting in an academic paper of 4,000-5,000 words, and a group presentation. However, students are expected to use all the information and skills they gained from AP Seminar to guide themselves throughout the AP Research course. Completing these courses opens the opportunity for students to receive a Capstone Diploma. The requirements for the diploma are to pass AP Seminar, AP Research, and 4 other AP courses, and a score of 3 or higher on 6 AP tests.

Ms. Gottfried, the teacher of the courses, says, “It’s a ton of work, it’s not an easy class, at all”. The process of developing and learning to integrate the skills from the courses is challenging. However, the benefits they provide are many and useful. The Capstone Diploma is appealing to colleges, can provide students with $20-30,000 scholarships, and is very helpful in college research classes. All-year students are developing their social skills and research skills. The Capstone Program was initiated just four years ago, at Manville High School. The start was difficult because only a few students were interested in the courses, however, it has come a long way since then. It is now being offered to sophomores, juniors, and seniors, and many have given it a try. Last year, all the students taking AP Research passed and received their Capstone Diplomas. The courses are not the easiest but are definitely one of the most rewarding for a student’s future here at Manville High School.