Two Glenbard Schools Among Three in Illinois Chosen to Implement AP Capstone

Glenbard East and Glenbard West high schools are two of only 3 high schools in Illinois chosen 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 AP Capstone program aligns with Glenbard District 87’s goal to have all students “level up” to more rigorous courses to ensure they are ready for college, the global work force and personal success,” said Superintendent David Larson. “The program requires students to demonstrate a passion for focused inquiry on topics of interest and an ability to communicate findings in a compelling way. These are two qualities that will define a student’s success beyond Glenbard.”

AP Capstone is designed to prepare more students for the rigors of college and success in future careers. Students who complete the program will be able to distinguish themselves during the college application process by demonstrating their commitment to challenging coursework and showcasing their in-depth understanding, interest and passion for specific issues.

The program includes a two-course sequence: AP Seminar and AP Research. AP Capstone complements the in-depth, subject-specific rigor of Advanced Placement courses and exams. AP Seminar will start in fall 2014.

Through the AP Seminar course, typically taken during sophomore or junior year, students will explore academic and real-world issues through an interdisciplinary lens and consider multiple points of view. Through a variety of materials ─ from articles and research studies to foundational and philosophical texts ─ students will be challenged to explore complex questions; understand and evaluate opposing viewpoints; interpret and synthesize information; and develop, communicate and defend their perspectives.

The AP Research course allows students to design, plan, and conduct a yearlong mentored investigation on a topic of their choosing. Students will use research methodology, employ ethical research practices, and access, analyze and synthesize information to present and defend an argument.

Students who earn scores of 3 or higher on the AP Seminar and AP Research exams and scores of 3 or higher on four AP exams of their choosing will receive the AP Capstone Diploma™. Students who earn qualifying scores on the two AP Capstone exams but do not take or earn qualifying scores on four additional AP exams will earn the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. 

Credit: Glenbard Township High School District 87 press release