Bow High School

Senior Project/Exhibition

 

I. What is a Senior Project/Exhibition?

The purpose of the Senior Project/Exhibition is to provide you with the opportunity to explore and experience interdisciplinary topics of your choice, and demonstrate knowledge and public presentation skills. Instead of asking you to take final exams and retain knowledge momentarily, we will ask you to exhibit the knowledge and skills you have acquired through your tenure in the Bow School District. You will work with mentors to choose a topic and then develop and implement a plan that promotes drawing upon past knowledge from varied courses of study, researching, hypothesizing and developing solutions to contemporary problems.

II. Philosophy and Rationale

The Bow High School Statement of Purpose states:

"Bow High School, as part of a community of learners, is committed to educational excellence which includes academic achievement, social responsibility and an understanding of the diverse world in which we live.

In partnership with parents and the community, we will provide an environment which supports the intellectual, social, emotional and physical development of students, while fostering an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of good citizenship.

We believe an interdisciplinary curriculum prepares students to become skilled, knowledgeable and motivated life-long learners. A curriculum that engages learners as active participants will challenge and support all students to be successful in life."

The Senior Project/Exhibition was developed to reflect this vision statement. We believe that the project will allow you to become more involved with the community and exhibit the competencies outlined in our Statement of Purpose. You will have the opportunity to demonstrate specific skills as independent learners through the Senior Project/Exhibition process: organization skills, presentation skills, problem-solving skills and writing skills.

 

III. Requirements for the Senior Project/Exhibition

 

You will be required to complete the following as part of their Senior Project/Exhibition:

1. CHOOSING A TOPIC: DISCOVERING/CREATING NEW KNOWLEDGE

You will be asked to choose a topic and discover and/or create new knowledge for yourself. Our goal is for Bow seniors to recognize topics, define topics, and develop logical processes or plans for examining them. You will be asked to show that you considered more than one option in exploring your topic, and to explain the topic as logical, ethical or compelling. After choosing your topic, you must also choose one mentor, either from the school or community, and develop a proposal for your project. This proposal must then be presented to a committee who will determine whether or not the project is viable.

  1.                 EXPLORING YOUR TOPIC

      2. You will be expected to collect, recall and understand basic facts about the topic you have chosen. After choosing your topic, you will locate and utilize a variety of resources; books, articles, primary sources, computer resources and personal interviews are a few of the many resources one may choose to explore. You are also required to document your research in your Senior Project Portfolio.
    1. APPLYING THE INFORMATION YOU HAVE LEARNED

      2. Applying the information means that you will make use of the facts you have collected in exploring your topic or make use of these facts in a new way.
       
    2. EXHIBITION

      3. You will be expected to design, execute and defend an interdisciplinary exhibition based upon your research. The oral and written defense must include the rationale for your exhibition. There are many options you may choose from in developing your exhibition. You may choose to conduct a demonstration, reading, show a video, perform a dance, exhibit and explain a work of art or exhibit a work of your choice. You may work both independently and cooperatively. We are looking for an exhibition that highlights curiosity, analytical ability, and creativity throughout the Senior Project process. The exhibition must be completed by the end of the semester that you are taking Senior Seminar.

       

    3. ANALYSIS/EVALUATION

The final phase of your Senior Project/Exhibition is to analyze and evaluate your learning experience. You will be asked to take the information you have compiled and reflect upon your research, process, exhibition, and experiences in a reflection paper. You should also discuss how the Senior Project/Exhibition process reflects the goals found in the Bow High School Statement of Purpose. Your paper should be typed and approximately 6 to 8 pages in length.

 

 

  1. Senior Project/Exhibition Timeline

 

Week 1     Packet distribution during Senior Seminar classes.

Week 2     Mentor Selection

Week 2     Topic selection

Week 3     Letter of Intent written and signed

Week 4     Proposals written

Week 5     Proposals presented to committee

Week 17    Project Exhibitions

Week 19     Reflection papers & portfolios due

All date are approximate - due dates will be distributed with packets

 

  1. Senior Project/Exhibition Guidelines and Forms
    1. Senior Project/Exhibition Time Line Sheet
    2. Sample Letter of Intent
    3. Senior Project/Exhibition Portfolio Content Requirements
    4. Senior Project/Exhibition Portfolio Assessment Form
    5. Senior Project/Exhibition Proposal Guidelines
    6. Senior Project/Exhibition Proposal Sample
    7. Senior Project/Exhibition Presentation Guidelines
    8. Exhibition Preparation Guidelines
    9. Senior Project/Exhibition Presentation Assessment Form
    10. Senior Project/Exhibition Reflection Paper Guidelines
    11. Senior Project/Exhibition Reflection Paper Assessment Form
    12. Senior Project/Exhibition Mentor Conference Record
    13. Senior Project/Exhibition Mentor Assessment Form

     

B. Senior Project/Exhibition

Sample Letter of Intent

 

Date

Dear __________,

I have chosen the topic of first aid for my Senior Project/Exhibition. Recently, I was faced with a situation in which a friend required first aid. Fortunately, a friend of mine had taken a first aid class, and was able to help my friend. I have not had the opportunity to take a class in first aid; therefore, I would like to take on that challenge. Also, I may be interested in pursuing a career as a medic for a rescue squad.

I have given some thought to ways that might be appropriate for me to study this topic. I expect this topic will require me to do a lot of library research. I also thought I might consult my friend Harold Lewis who works for the Bow Rescue squad and ask him to be my content expert and mentor. I thought he might also provide me with information about requirements for becoming a rescue squad member. Part of my research will involve taking a course outside of school, and fulfilling some of the requirements for becoming a member of a rescue squad.

I would ask that you be my in-school mentor because I worked well with you when I was a sophomore, and I feel that you helped to motivate me to do my best high school work. I am committed to meeting with you weekly. I generally have 4th period free, but would also be available to meet with you before and after school.

This project will be a challenge because I know very little about rescue squad requirements. I am going to build on the inspiration of feeling unable to aid a friend in need and do all I can to become knowledgeable so that I might come to the aid of others in the future.

I hope this meets with your approval. Thank you for taking the time to consider being my mentor.

Sincerely,

 

Rosie Johnson

 

 

 

 

 

Parent Signature__________________________ Senior Seminar Teacher______________________________

 

I agree to mentor this senior______________________________________________

(signature of mentor)

 

C. Senior Project/Exhibition

Portfolio Content Requirements

 

An important part of your Senior Project/Exhibition is to maintain a Senior Project Portfolio. Your portfolio is an important and necessary part of the entire Senior Project process. It will be the item in which you document your research and note the progress you are making. It will also aid the evaluators in understanding what you’ve accomplished throughout this extensive and time consuming process. As you begin, you are asked to record what you know, assume or imagine about your topic. The personalized tracking of your own involvement in this experience should encourage not only your active learning, but also your active reflection on the process. Assess what you have learned in the process of searching and comment on the value of your discoveries. We expect you to keep three separate sections in your Senior Project Portfolio. Journal entries must be kept in your portfolio and will be checked weekly. Listed below are the sections and what should be found there:

  1. Documentation
    1. Letter of Intent
    2. Proposal outline
    3. Proposal
    4. Mentor conference record sheets
    5. Time sheet (This sheet should include the date, time elapsed and activity for each of your work sessions).
  1. Evidence of Research/Knowledge Base
    2.
    1. Notes on reading
    2. Annotated/highlighted articles
    3. Audio/video tapes or notes of interviews
    4. Photographs or sketches
    5. Surveys and analysis of those surveys
    6. Annotated bibliography
    7. other research materials
  1. Journal Entries
    2.
    1. Journal entries should include writing on any of the following:
    1. What did I learn today?
    2. What confused me?
    3. What questions do I have now?
    4. How will I use this new information?
    5. How will this information help me to reach my goal?
    6. What do I need help with now? Who can help?
    7. What logistical problems need solving?
    8. How am I working with my mentor? What questions do I have for her/him?
    9. What do I do next? Goals – short, long term.
    10. Assess the quality of your work
    11. Final Entry in which you synthesize your new knowledge.

 

A. Senior Project/Exhibition

Timeline Sheet

 

Date Activity Summarize what you did to complete

Completed the activity

 

Mentor Selected

 

Topic Chosen

 

Letter of Intent Written & Signed 

 

 

L. Senior Project/Exhibition

Mentor Conference Record Sheet

Student:_________________________________________ Advisor:__________________________

Senior Project Topic:___________________________________________________________________

 

Date:_________________________ Mentor’s Signature________________________________

Comments:___________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________ Mentor’s Signature________________________________

Comments:___________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________ Mentor’s Signature________________________________

Comments:___________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________ Mentor’s Signature________________________________

Comments:___________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________ Mentor’s Signature________________________________

Comments:___________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Date:_________________________ Mentor’s Signature________________________________

Comments:___________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

E. Senior Project/Exhibition

Proposal Guidelines

 

At this point you have completed your letter of intent, chosen your topic, and selected a mentor. The next step in this process is to develop your project/exhibition proposal. The purpose of your proposal will be to explain your project in greater detail. It is this detailed account of your project that will be submitted to the Senior Project/Exhibition Steering Committee for final topic approval.

In the process of drafting your letter of intent, you have become acquainted with your mentor. You must choose a mentor from within the school. You may have another outside of the building as well; however, your primary mento must be a BHS faculty or staff member. You will now need to set up regular meetings with your mentor. Your written proposal will be the result of these meetings. The following outline should be what you and your mentor discuss, and you should also follow this outline when you write your proposal:

  1. Intent
    1. Why is this an interesting and exciting topic for you?
    2. How does this project push you beyond your comfortable limits?
  1. Prior Knowledge
    1. What knowledge, experience, or insight do you bring to this topic?
  1. Methods of Inquiry
    1. Who is your content expert?
    2. What ways of gaining knowledge are appropriate for your topic?
    1. Will you interview? Whom?
    2. What will you read?
    3. Will you create? (build, write, compose, design, etc.)
    4. Will you observe? Who or what?
    5. Will you make contacts on the internet? With whom, or with what organization?
    6. Will you have an apprenticeship? With whom?
    7. Will you conduct surveys?
    8. How will you use technology sources?
    9. Are there any other ways of gaining knowledge that are appropriate to your topic that we haven’t thought of?
  1. Focus
    1. What is your focus? (essential question(s), hypothesis, thesis)
  1. Final Exhibition
    1. What ideas do you have for your final exhibition?

Your proposal submission should be substantial enough to answer the questions listed above thoroughly. The expectation is that this proposal will be clear and detailed, and will be organized as befits your status as a high school senior. This written proposal will serve as the basis for your project proposal presentation.

  1. Senior Project/Exhibition Proposal Sample

 

To: The Assessment Team

From: Barry Water

I have chosen to explore the topic of children and their disabilities. I am aware of this problem because my cousin has been deaf since birth. This personal connection makes me excited and motivated to explore this topic. I have also wondered if I could write a children’s book, and therefore would like to incorporate this into my project. Trying something completely new like this will push my comfortable limits.

My prior knowledge for this project is somewhat limited. I have had conversations with my cousin about what being disabled is like for him. Another experience I had involved a 7th grade social studies unit on people with disabilities.

Reading is one way for me to gain the expertise I need for this project. In addition to books on disabilities, I have found several books that would help me do the children’s book writing. The books are: The Way to Write for Children, by Joan Aiken, Writing Books for Children, by Jane Yolen, and The Children’s Picture Book, by Ellen E.M. Roberts.

I have arranged to set up interviews with two local agencies that work with disabled children. Jane Hanger is my content expert at the Manchester Children’s Aid Society. I am also lucky enough to know children’s author Barbara Cooney. She has said she will answer my questions about writing for children.

Creating my own children’s book based on my research on disabilities will help me put my information together, and so is another hands-on way for me to master my material. I hope to create a children's book that would be appropriate for grades 1-2.

I have several questions that I would like my research to answer. First, I would like to know what problems children with disabilities face. I would also like to know how they overcome these difficulties. This is the focus of my project.

Although I haven’t really decided what my presentation will be in May, I think I would like to have the opportunity to read my book to a local elementary school. Perhaps I could videotape that experience. I also plan to read my book to the committee.

I hope you will consider my proposal. I feel that it is important for disabled children to see themselves positively and to know that they are not alone in their struggle. I feel that through my research I will develop an understanding and a depth of knowledge that will enable me to accomplish my goal.

 

G. Senior Project/Exhibition

Presentation Guidelines

This presentation is an important one. It will set the tone for all the work that is to come. As the assessment team, we are here to help you get started. The questions you will be asked are to assist you in focusing your work in the months ahead. Please have a conversation with your mentor to review your answers before you present. A successful Senior Project/Exhibition is the goal. We look forward to our time with you.

 

  1. Mentor
    1. Why did you choose _____ as your mentor?
    2. How do you plan to honor this relationship?
  1. Intent
    1. Why is this an interesting and exciting topic for you?
    2. How does this project push you beyond your comfortable limits?
  1. Prior Knowledge
    1. What knowledge, experience, or insight do you bring to this topic?
  1. Methods of Inquiry
    1. Who is your content expert?
    2. What ways of acquiring knowledge are appropriate for your topic?
    1. Will you interview? Whom?
    2. What will you read?
    3. Will you create? (build, write, compose, design, etc.)
    4. Will you observe? Who or what?
    5. Will you make contacts on the internet? With whom, or with what organization?
    6. Will you have an apprenticeship? With whom?
    7. Will you conduct surveys?
    8. How will you use technology sources?
    9. Are there any other ways of gaining knowledge that are appropriate to your topic that we haven’t thought of?
  1. Focus
    1. What is your focus?

 

G. Exhibition Preparation Guidelines

Your Senior Project Exhibition should be one of the most memorable events of your senior year. Your audience will be small and supportive and you should be well prepared. This is our chance to show off your hard work.

The entire presentation, including demonstration, readings, and visual aids should last no longer than 15-20 minutes. It will be followed by a 10 minute question period. Rehearsing your exhibition in front of an audience is an important aspect of your exhibition.

Guidelines for Organizing your Exhibition

  1. Plan an opening that will:
  1. Introduce yourself
  2. Explain your motivation for choosing your topic
  3. State your essential question/questions

2. Plan the development of your presentation to last no more than 15-20 minutes. You should show what you’ve learned from your active research and from the process of completing your final project. Clear evidence of the knowledge you have created is needed. Some ways of showing what you’ve learned include:

a. a demonstration

b. a reading

c. a visual aid

d. reference to interviews or interactions with your mentor

e. references to visits, internships, and community activities

f. discussion of your readings

g. other creative ways that you think of

3. Plan a Conclusion that will:

  1. reflect on your personal growth
  2. leave the audience with something to think about

 

J. Senior Project/Exhibition

Reflection Paper Guidelines

 

We have been asking you to reflect on your research, your process, and your experiences since this all began. The real value in your project is your ability to complete this reflection honestly. We are asking you to consider and assess the integrity of your process. This final thoughtful piece of writing is perhaps the most important aspect of your project. We offer you the following guidelines on this journey of introspection.

 

Finally, we ask you to examine the school’s Statement of Purpose and to discuss how your project has enabled you to fulfill all, or any part of this valuable commitment. Your paper must be typed or word processed.

 

 

"Bow High School, as part of a community of learners, is committed to educational excellence which includes academic achievement, social responsibility and an understanding of the diverse world in which we live.

In partnership with parents and the community, we will provide an environment which supports the intellectual, social, emotional and physical development of students, while fostering an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of good citizenship.

We believe an interdisciplinary curriculum prepares students to become skilled, knowledgeable and motivated life-long learners. A curriculum that engages learners as active participants will challenge and support all students to be successful in life."

 

 

 

D. Senior Project/Exhibition

Portfolio Assessment Form

Name___________________________________________

Project Title________________________________________________________________

Senior Seminar Instructor___________________________

Mentor__________________________________________

Total Hours Logged __________

Rubric:

  1. Exceeds Expectations
  1. Meets Expectations
  1. Approaches Expectations
  1. Needs Additional Work
  1. Documentation _______________

 

  1. Evidence of Research/Knowledge ___________________

 

  1. Use of Journal Entries _______________________

M. Senior Project Exhibition

Mentor Assessment Form

Please complete this assessment form for __________________________________ and

Return it to ______________________, by __________________. Thank You.

Low Average High

1. Courteous 1 2 3 4 5

2. Responds well to instruction 1 2 3 4 5

3. Shows responsibility 1 2 3 4 5

4. Shows commitment 1 2 3 4 5

5. Sets and meets goals 1 2 3 4 5

6. Works Independently 1 2 3 4 5

7. Interpersonal communication skills 1 2 3 4 5

8. Overall quality of product 1 2 3 4 5

9. Do you have further suggestions for the student?

 

 

10. Do you have any suggestions for improving the Senior Project/Exhibition process?

 

 

11. Please list any additional comments or observations.

 

 

 

 

Please attach additional sheets if necessary. Thank you for agreeing to mentor a Bow High School student. We appreciate your participation in the Senior Project/Exhibition.

 

I. Senior Project/Exhibition

Exhibition Assessment

 

Name_______________________________ Project Title ___________________________

Senior Seminar ________________________ Mentor _______________________________

Exhibition Rubric:

  1. Exceeds Expectations
  1. Meets Expectations
  1. Approaches Expectations
  1. Needs More Work

 

  1. Delivery and Presentation

    2. _______ The speaker was enthusiastic about the material presented

    _______ The speaker used effective eye contact with the audience throughout the presentation

    _______ The speaker used adequate vocal variety and emphasis

    _______ The speaker engaged the audience

    _______ Supporting materials appropriately enhanced the project

    _______ Supporting materials are concise representations of the project

    _______ Supporting materials meet high standards of excellence

  2. Content/Organization

_______ Ideas were presented in an organized manner.

_______ Ideas reflected content knowledge and expertise in the area studied

_______ Research and knowledge were clearly demonstrated in the exhibition

_______ The presenter answered questions in an informed, confident manner

 

 

K. Senior Project/Exhibition

Reflection Paper Assessment

Name_______________________________ Project Title ___________________________

Senior Seminar ________________________ Mentor _______________________________

Reflection Paper Rubric:

  1. Exceeds Expectations
  1. Meets Expectations
  1. Approaches Expectations
  1. Needs More Work

 

  1. Content

    2. _______ Focuses on the guideline questions

    _______ Connects with the school’s Statement of Purpose

    _______ Shows evidence of thoughtful self-assessment

     

  2. Organization

_______ Includes a well-developed introduction, body, and conclusion

_______ Demonstrates proper paragraphing and effective transitions

_______ Is cohesive and well written

 

    C.   Mechanics/Style

_______ Establishes an appropriate tone, and shows awareness of the audience

_______ Shows clear evidence of meticulous proofreading.