Volume

2017
OCEAN LAKES HIGH SCHOOL

Mathematics and Science Academy

SeniorCapstone
Project Guide

OCEAN LAKES HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE ACADEMY

Senior Capstone Project Guide

Table of Contents
Chapter One: Introduction..1
Chapter Two: Project Option One-- Research4
Chapter Three: Project Option Two--Capstone..9
Appendix...14

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G U I D E

INTRODUCTION
The principle goal of education in the schools should be creating men and women who are
capable of doing new things, not simply repeating what other generations have done.
Jean Piaget

he goal of the Mathematics and Science Academy Senior Capstone

project is to encourage students to engage in sustained independent research into

a topic of personal interest, to build their understanding of current topics associated

with STEM fields, and to complete either a scientific, mathematical, or engineering research
project or a capstone project associated with their research.
The Senior Capstone project is recorded as one (1) elective credit and is a requirement for receiving the
Academy seal and medallion at graduation.
Students may choose a variety of disciplines as the focus for a capstone project. These include the following
STEM areas:
1. Natural Sciences: This area focuses on biological, health, medical, environmental, or ecological fields.
2. Physical Sciences: This area focuses on chemistry or physics.
3. Computers: This area focuses on program design, application, data collection, system design, and
graphic design.

4. Engineering: This area focuses on materials and materials testing, structural design, robotics, and the
many engineering strands (civil, mechanical, structural, chemical, environmental, etc.)
5. Mathematical: This area focuses on applied and theoretical mathematics.
Students who are unsure about the suitability of their topic should schedule a conference with the Academy
Senior Advisor very early in the proposal process.
A students imagination and his/her ability to articulate a proposals compatibility with the requirements
described within this manual are the only limitations for research and capstone projects.
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Process Overview
The Commonwealth of Virginia, as outlined by the Virginia Department of Education, requires a minimum
of 140 hours of documented time to earn elective, independent study credit. Time spent on laboratory
research, library and electronic source research, observations, interviews, shadowing, and creating end
products count toward the 140-hour requirement.
While the process for accruing hours counting towards a senior project begins once students have submitted
and received approval of their senior project proposals, students are allowed to document 16 hours of work
completed prior to project approval. Documentation of this work must be submitted with the project
proposal to receive credit.
P U T T I N G

T H E

P I E C E S

T O G E T H E R

10th and 11th grade

Exit interview to
review grade and
discuss the
experience with
academy advisor.

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Documentation is paramount

In the appendix of this guide, students will find the forms and templates necessary to
document hours, to receive proposal approval, and to reach out to business professionals.
Students may not change their research or capstone projects without prior approval from
the academy advisor. Should a student wish to make a change to the previously approved
senior project proposal, a new proposal must be submitted and attached to the
Change Request form found on Edmodo.

Typical Timeline from Proposal to Finish

While no two senior project experiences will be the same, the following time line represents a general review of
the process and the deadlines for the mandatory steps in the process. Should a
Meet Deadlines
student not meet these deadlines, she/he may be dismissed from the
This expectation includes
meetings with the senior project
Academy program. While the Senior Project Advisor will work with students to
advisor and paperwork deadlines.
help troubleshoot problems and brainstorm solutions, it is up to each student to
submit written work by the mandatory deadline to avoid grade penalty or dismissal
from the Academy.
Sophomores receive
guidebook and discuss
the parameters of the
senior capstone project
with the Senior Project
Advisor.
June 1of 10th
Grade

Submit date and time of

target audience
presentation.
Prior to October
1st of senior year

Meet bi-monthly with

Senior Project Advisor.
Once a month small group meeting times
assigned by Senior Project Advisor in September
of senior year, once a month one-on-one meeting
TBD by senior and scheduled with advisor.

Now rising juniors, students

explore topics and issues by
completing 16 hours of capacity
building. Such experiences could
include: Open Courseware;
Shadowing one or more
professionals; Primary and
Secondary Source Research.
June prior to junior year
to the date of proposal
submission

Submit necessary
competition forms if
applicable.
BEFORE starting
data collection for
scientific research

Submit proposal detailing

the plan for the remaining
required hours, the
projected outcomes, the
human and material
resources needed, and the
targeted audience.

Friday
following
spring break
of junior year

Transition blog into a

scientific log book or
anecdotal log book
during a mandatory
lunch and learn with the
Senior Project Advisor.
Prior to beginning work on senior
projectno later than June 1 of
junior year

I search or formal
scientific research paper
and blog transition to
"digital portfolio" due.
Prior to January 27
during senior year
3

Present to Academy
underclassmen and
faculty; complete exit
interview.
During second semester of
senior yeardate and time
assigned by Senior Project
Advisor

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Capstone Project Option 1Research Project

In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process
never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own
responsibility.Eleanor Roosevelt

Chapter

The Senior Research Project is designed to be a culminating activity

in the Mathematics & Science Academy program. This project gives
the student an opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest in more depth than
would be possible in a classroom setting or to explore a topic of interest in
mathematics, science, or technology not in the academy curriculum. This project is an independent study course;
students will work with a faculty/adult advisor to chart their own course. The Senior Research Project does
not need to be in the form of an experimental design; although, it must involve the collection of data and an
assessment of the outcome.

OVERVIEW

This project could involve building an electronic device, exploring a

mathematical theory, writing a computer program, or conducting a field study,
just to name a few examples. A student may also choose to continue research
previously conducted or participate in a mathematics, science, or technology
summer program. Students who conduct experimental design projects
are required to submit their work to a publication or to participate in a
science competition.
Proposal Review

Every student who chooses to execute a Senior Research Project must submit a research proposal after meeting
with the participating Research Advisor and conducting preliminary research, but before starting the project. The
research proposal shall be no more than two pages in length and should be written in the following format using
APA style (see appendix for sample):
- Name and Complete Mailing Address: The student should include his/her complete name, mailing address with zip
code, phone number, and email address. The student should also include the complete name, mailing address with zip
code, telephone number, and email address of his/her Research Advisor. **Note: An expert scientist interview
must accompany the proposal.

- Topic or Research Inquiry Question

- Summary/Rationale:

Why is this project importantpersonally, globally, within the discipline?

- Initial

Review of the Literature: What are the main details underlying this topic or question? What previous research
has been done? (General overview would suffice). The intent of this section is to demonstrate that the student has some
understanding of the depth, complexity, and limitations of their proposed project. Include internal, APA parenthetical
citations. References may be attached.

- Materials/Facilities: This is not to be a specific list of quantities of materials; rather it should be a general listing of the
types of equipment and other supplies that may be necessary to conduct the project. The intent of this paragraph is to
ensure that adequate facilities are available to the student.
- Preliminary Methodology Plan: As part of the proposal, the student must include a preliminary plan for the research
design. What does the students anticipate using as a sampling procedure? Participant characteristics? What will be the
plan for data collection? How will the student gather data? Qualitative? Quantitative?
- Proposed Time Line: The student should sketch an outline of how long various portions of the project will take. This
timeline is not binding; it is simply a planning tool for both the student and advisor, i.e. month-by-month or by nine weeks.

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The Fine Print

Proposals for senior research projects accompanied by advisor interview document,

research advisor contract, and the acknowledgement of requirements form are due to Mrs. Graves no later than
the Friday following spring break.
The proposals will be reviewed by a faculty committee - consisting of at least one
representative from the Science, Mathematics, English, and Technology Departments.
Notification of approval or requests for clarification will be given to the student in May.
Students may not start their projects until final approval has been received IN WRITING
from the committee. Students who do not have their projects approved by the end of
junior year will be dismissed from the academy program.
Project Requirements

Once the project has been approved, the student should build upon the literature review submitted with the
junior proposal. The student will be expected to complete this background research prior to finalizing the
procedural plan. Students are expected to do in-depth research, utilizing both public and university libraries.
Students should work with an expert scientist who is either a professional in a field appropriate to the research
or an educator with the appropriate background given the research topic. Students must meet with this
expert scientist a minimum of three times: at the beginning of the process prior to finalizing a
procedural plan; prior to running assays and collecting data; and after data collection and analysis.
Upon returning in September, the student and his/her assigned research advisor (an OLHS teacher who may or
may not be the expert scientist) should meet to refine the timeline for the project. The due date for the entire
project will be set at this time but should be no later than the beginning of January, 2017.
Research students will also meet with the Senior Project Advisor on a monthly basis in a small group setting to
monitor the projects progress, workshop writing, and clarify any concerns.

Each project must be eligible to participate and subsequently be submitted for entry
in one of the following opportunities. It is the students responsibility to research and meet guidelines for
the opportunity to which his/her research will be submitted. Links to the opportunities below are in the
Edmodo folder for the Academy Class of 2017.

Publications: Journal of Emerging Investigators, National Journal of High School Science, Journal of
Experimental Secondary Science
Competitions: Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, Siemens Competition (deadline
for entriesSeptember 30), Intel Talent Search(deadlineNovember), Davidson Fellows,
Virginia BioGENEius Challenge, Google Science Fair, Tidewater Science Fair, Virginia
Junior Academy of Science
Students are responsible for procuring forms required by these entities, adhering to experience specific guidelines,
and revising their work to meet the demands of the publication or competition.
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We do not condone the back dating of formshave necessary forms signed PRIOR to conducting
experiments or collecting data.
Products Associated with Research Projects
The Scientific Log Book

In addition to completing the hours log located in the appendix of this guidebook, students must document in a
logbook a minimum of 140 hours of work to receive credit for the project from the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Students are required to keep an anecdotal logbook/blog on all aspects of their research project. For
competitions, a composition book is recommended. The anecdotal logbook/blog entries should include for each
daily entry written in narrative format:
- Location where work was done,
- Whether the student was directly supervised by someone (advisor, subject expert, etc.) or working independently,
- Amount of time spent on project,
- A detailed description of what was done (research, section of procedure completed, writing paper, etc.),
- An assessment by the student of the work accomplished.
Students must also take digital photographs during the completion of their research project, including
one of the student and the research advisor, and 3-5 of the work being done on the project.
The digital photograph of the student and the expert scientist is due to the Academy Advisor no later
than September 1, 2016, to avoid a grade reduction.
The Trifold

During the Academy Symposium, seniors must participate in a

Capstone Fair during which time they showcase their work on a
trifold and acknowledge the help their expert scientist provided. The
trifold should be competition ready, and students should be ready to
discuss their work with visiting mentors, expert scientists, and
underclassmen.
Guidance on trifold preparation will be provided during a small group
working session with the Senior Project Advisor.
The Scientific Paper

Each student is required to write a research paper as part of his/her project. The paper should be 12-15
pages in length and contain the following components:

- Title Page: The title page should include the title of the research project, the students name, and the date the
paper was written. It should also include an authors note detailing the required information on page 24 in the
APA manual.
- Abstract: The abstract consists of concise statements of the research objective, approach, key results, and
conclusions. It must not exceed one page, double-spaced (250 words).
- Introduction: The introduction includes a brief review of current and related literature with an explanation of
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the writers interest in the subject and the importance of the issue. Additionally, it should contain the specific area
being researched and concise objectives. If applicable, it should identify the variables and hypothesis.
- Method: This section explains the equipment, supplies, and methods used in the project. The materials used
should be incorporated in the paragraph description of the procedure rather than in list format. All procedures
should be detailed sufficiently and stated clearly to allow duplication of the project. Standard techniques,
appropriately referenced, may be included without providing detail. Specialized techniques should be presented
concisely. A description of equipment unique to the project or built by the student should be included. If
applicable, sample size, replications, data collection techniques, and type of statistical analysis to be used should be
included.
- Results: This section contains only information obtained as a result of the project. Raw data should be
summarized and presented in paragraph form as well as in graphs and tables, as appropriate. Results of statistical
analysis should be included in this section. Raw data should be placed in the appendix if it is crucial to the
understanding of the project and must be in the logbook.
- Discussion and Conclusions: This section contains an interpretation of the results. The first sentence of this
paragraph should include a restatement of the research that was conducted. Comparisons to other research
should be made with appropriate literature citations. An evaluation of the success of the project, possible
procedure improvements, and suggestions for future studies should be included. Logic and the application of
laws, principles, and theories are used to draw conclusions. The conclusions should be clear and concise.
-References: This section is a list of all books, publications, Internet resources and communications from
which significant materials were cited in the paper. The listing is composed alphabetically by the last name of the
first author if using APA for the internal citations or students may choose to use CSE for internal citations. If
using CSE, use the citation sequence format and APA for individual entries on the References page.

- Appendix: This section contains raw data too lengthy to include in the results section but important for the
understanding of the paper. The appendix may also contain data tables, graphs, charts, illustrations, and pictures.

The style guide for the paper is in the American Psychological Association (APA) Guide (see page 41 for
a sample paper). Some of the specifics of this style are:
- Format: The print should be 12 point font, double spaced. Suggested fonts are Helvetica, CG Times, Courier,
Geneva, or their equivalent. All margins should be one inch.
- Literature citations: All references must be properly cited in the body of the paper.
- Mechanics: The paper should be written in the third person, past tense except for projects in mathematics and
computer science which may be written in the first person present tense. Proper grammar, sentence structure,
and punctuation should be used throughout. All figures, tables, diagrams, etc. should be labeled and numbered.
Note: Some publication/competition options will require different citation or formatting;
some may even have different expectations for the papers content. However, all research
papers submitted for Academy credit must meet these guidelines. Students may then
make changes based on submission to external entities.

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The Presentation

A formal multimedia presentation of the research to a panel is another requirement of the research project.
Unless prior approval is obtained, this presentation will include a computer slideshow as the foundation of the
visual component of the program. The presentation should last 15 minutes with an additional 5 minutes
allotted for questions and answers. The presentation should include the following:
- Identification of advisor and research facility;
- Reason for doing research and background information on research
topic;
- Purpose of research;
- Overview of procedures utilized and data collected;
- Graphical presentation of results;
- Significant conclusions;
- Future application(s);
- Evaluation of experience and the feedback provided by target audience.
Special Considerations for Research Projects
Group Projects

Group projects will be considered on a case-by-case basis. When writing the

research proposal for a group project, the students must present a clear and
compelling argument in the Summary/Rationale section for having more than one
person working on this project. A major factor is whether the project is complex
enough to allow each student to accumulate 140 hours. If a group project is
approved, only one paper and one presentation will be required for the group.
However, each student will be required to keep an individual anecdotal logbook
indicating his/her contributions to the project. The Senior Project Advisor will periodically review the
logbook to ensure that each student is working equitably on the project.
Summer Programsas a part of a research project experience

There are many research opportunities available in summer programs. To receive credit for a summer
project, the following guidelines must be met:
- The student must submit a letter of intent along with the project proposal. Since acceptance into these programs
is generally selective, students must have an alternative proposal ready for submission should he/she not
participate in the program of his/her choice.
- The student must submit a letter of acceptance to the summer program for project approval.
- The student must keep an anecdotal logbook (narrative format) and include a syllabus for the program. If the
student does not complete 140 hours in the summer program.
- The student must submit a letter of authenticity from the summer sponsor stating that the student did conduct
the project.
- All paperwork required for research projects must be completed by the research advisor during the summer
(MSA paperwork and science competition or publication paperwork). Bring those forms with you in September!
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Capstone Project Option 2Capstone Project

Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with
all your life. Make the most of yourself by fanning the tiny, inner sparks of
possibility into flames of achievement.Golda Meir
OVERVIEW

3
Chapter

The Ocean Lakes High School Mathematics and Science Academy

Capstone Project offers students who wish to design a culminating project as a result
of time with a mentor, independent research, and other capacity building and enrichment experiences. These
projects are in response to a problem or question identified by the student or suggested by a professional
mentor.
Capstone projects are products designed for a target audience who is invested in the topic. Students
should design evaluation instruments to gather data on the products effectiveness from the targeted audience.
While all projects must be related to math, science, or technology, a student is limited by imagination and available
resources when designing and proposing a capstone concept.
Typical projects may include, but are not limited to:

Service projects completed in coordination with a mentoring entity or independently;

Educational sessions and or materials created for a targeted audience;
A presentation to a panel of experts regarding a case study or problem assigned by a professional mentor;
A product designed for a targeted audience that is appropriate to the scope of a capstone project and is
designed based on extensive research and planning.

Proposal Review

Every student who chooses to execute a Senior Capstone Project must submit a project proposal after meeting
with the primary professional mentor and conducting preliminary research, but before starting the project. The
capstone proposal shall be no more than two pages in length and should be written in the following format using
APA style (see appendix for sample):
- Name and Complete Mailing Address: The student should include his/her complete name, mailing
address with zip code, home telephone number and email address.
- Primary Professional Mentor: The student should identify the primary professional with
whom she/he will be working for this project. If more than one person will be working with
the student, list all mentors indicating who the primary mentor will be. Include the complete
mailing address of the mentor with zip code, the telephone number, and the email address.
**Note: A mentor interview must accompany the proposal. See appendix.
- Objective(s): What does the student hope to learn and do during the course of this experience?
(bulleted list)
- Proposed Timeline: The student should sketch an outline of how his/her time will be spent working on
the project. The timeline is not binding; it is simply a planning tool for both the student and the mentor.
- Summary/Rationale: This section will explain the following: Why is this topic relevant (personal, local,
global, professional)? What do you currently know about this topic? What will you be learning during the
course of your work (new understandings or skills)? What do you hope to achieve for your final product?
For what specific audience? Which specific activities will you do as a part of your capstone project? How will
you collect data from your audience? Feedback survey? Personally created rubrics? How will you present
your final product? What will be your tentative presentation date?
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The Fine Print

Proposals for senior mentorships are due to Mrs. Graves no later than the Friday
following spring break of junior year. The proposals will be reviewed by a faculty committee consisting of at least one representative from the Science, Mathematics, English, and Technology
Departments. Notification of approval or requests for clarification will be given to the student within
two weeks of submission. Students may not start their capstone work until final approval has been
received IN WRITING from the committee. Students who do not have their mentorships
approved by the end of junior year will be dismissed from the academy program.
NOTE

A capstone project may change several times from the initial proposal submission. Any changes
must be submitted in writing in the form of a revised proposal attached to a Change
Request form available on Edmodo. Your change must be approved prior to your following through with
the change.
Products Associated with Capstone Projects
The Blog

In addition to completing the hours log located in the appendix of this guidebook, students
must document on their blogs a minimum of 140 hours of work to receive credit for the
project from the Commonwealth of Virginia. Students are required to keep an anecdotal blog
on all aspects of their capstone project. Each entry should include the following information
in an About-Point-React entry. Blog URL must be provided to the Senior project
advisor by June of junior year.
About: Summary of work completed that day (research, observations of mentor, production of capstone product
or written work)
Point: Location where work was done, Nature of work (if supervised or independently completed), Amount of
Time, Points to remember or research in the future, Questions to explore (a bulleted list is fine for this section)
React: An assessment by the student of the work accomplished. What are the next steps?
Students must also take photographs during the completion of their capstone project, including one of
the student and the primary mentor, and 3-5 of the work being done on the project.
A digital copy of the photograph of the student and the primary mentor is due to the
Academy Advisor no later than September 1, 2016, to avoid a grade reduction.

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The Trifold

During the Academy Symposium, seniors must participate in a Capstone Fair

during which time they showcase their work on a trifold and acknowledge the help
their expert scientist provided. The trifold should be visually compelling, and
students should be ready to discuss their work with visiting mentors, expert
scientists, and underclassmen.
Guidance on trifold preparation will be provided during a small group working
session with the Senior Project Advisor.

The I-Search Paper

Each student is required to write an I-Search paper as part of his/her project. The paper should be 12-15
pages in length and contain the following components:

Introduction

Persuasive introduction to the topic. Reader understands why this topic is important globally, locally, and to
the writer. Clearly evident what the writer knew before the research began and what he/she wanted to know
about this topic.

What I Want to
Know

Identifies a specific question or problem that the writer intends to research, including the rationale for the subquestions helping the writer explore the topic. Reader understands why these sub-questions are important to
the work.

The
Search/Hunt/
Process

Strong narrative format that chronologically describes the writers search failures and successes. Significant
review of materials and resources utilized. Writer demonstrates an understanding of the main question or
problem and sub-questions by using effective paraphrasing and by providing enough context that a lay person
can understand the findings.

Conclusion

The conclusion (student product answering the big question) is thoroughly described. The reason for this
product is strongly supported with examples, details, stories, and arguments, which help the reader understand
how the writer got from beginning questions to end product.

Results

Writer provides analysis of data collected from target audience and from other performance related instruments.
Reflects on the process detailing personal growth with specific examples.

References

Includes variety of valid sources including peer reviewed articles, books, internet sources, and human
resources. Follows APA or CSE guidelines and form in citation and reference page.

Style

First-person, narrative; There are no or few errors, these do not affect the text. A lay person could read this
paper and understand the topic without feeling that it has been dumbed down.use of analogy and
contextualization is present along with language of the discipline.

Small group direct instruction and peer review will be provided in during the fall of senior year.
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The Presentation

A formal multimedia presentation of the research to a panel is another requirement of the research project.
Unless prior approval is obtained, this presentation will include a computer slideshow as the foundation of the
visual component of the program. The presentation should last 15 minutes with an additional 5 minutes
allotted for questions and answers. The presentation should include the following:
- Identification of primary mentor;
- Introduction to topicimport, personal connection;
- Question or problem driving work;
- Overview of the search/hunt/process;
- Discussion and visual representation of final product;
- Results;
- Future application(s);
- Evaluation of experience.

Special Considerations for Capstone Projects

Group Projects

Group projects will be considered on a case-by-case basis. When writing the

research proposal for a group project, the students must present a clear and
compelling argument in the Summary/Rationale section for having more than
one person working on this project. A major factor is whether the project is
complex enough to allow each student to accumulate 140 hours. If a group
project is approved, only one paper and one presentation will be required for the
group. However, each student will be required to keep an individual anecdotal
blog indicating his/her contributions to the project.
Summer Programsas a part of a capstone project experience

There are many research opportunities available in summer programs. To receive credit for a summer
program, the following guidelines must be met:
- The student must submit a letter of intent along with the project proposal.
- The student must submit a letter of acceptance to the summer program.
- The student must keep an anecdotal logbook (narrative format) and include a syllabus for the program. This
should be attached to the hours log.
- The student must submit a letter of authenticity from the summer sponsor stating that the student did complete
the programalso attached to hours log.
Some Donts

1. You may not have a family member as a primary mentor, nor should the mentor be employed by a family
member;
2. You may not be paid for hours you are counting towards this project.
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OCEAN LAKES HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE ACADEMY

Senior Capstone Project Guide

Appendix
1. Capstone/Research Project Process Log..15
2. Primary Mentorship Site Interview Form.16-17
3. Professional Mentor Site Contract. ..18
4. Professional Mentor/Expert Scientist Evaluation Form..19
5. Senior Research Project Contract20
6. Expert Scientist Interview Form.21
7. Senior Reminders22
8. Protocol for Contacting Professionals.22
9. Letter of Request Template23
*Change Request Form, rubrics, sample papers will be available on Edmodo.
.
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CAPSTONE/RESEARCH PROJECT PROCESS LOG

You must document 140 hours by the date of your OLHS senior presentation to receive credit. 16 hours may be
documented for the time spent working prior to proposal submission. A sample for this document is housed on
the Edmodo page for this graduating class.

Date

Activity

A Capacity Building (Max 40)

B Literature Review (Max 25)
C Planning and Creating (Max 40)

Code

Time
(Hours)

Details

D Mentor Observation/Shadowing (Max 70)*

E Research and Experimentation/Trial (Max 70)**
F Meetings/Workshops w/OLHS advisor(s) (Max 20)

TOTAL HOURS FOR EACH CODE

A __________
B __________
C __________
D __________

E __________
F __________
TOTAL __________

15

Validation
Signature

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Due from capstone students

with proposal.

G U I D E

*Mentor observations should include evaluation document when hours are completed.
**Research Meetings with Expert Scientists must be validated with the signature of the expert scientist

PRIMARY MENTORSHIP SITE INTERVIEW FORM

To be completed by the student during an interview of the participating primary mentor. Interviews may
be conducted in person or over the phone.

NAME OF BUSINESS:_________________________________________________________
ADDRESS:_________________________________________________________________
PHONE

_________________ FAX

MENTOR NAME & TITLE:

______________ E-MAIL

________________

____________________________________________________

What is your area of expertise?

What educational background or experience do you have that has helped you develop this expertise?

What types of observations or experiences do you think a student will have while shadowing you?

What research should a student do prior to starting a mentorship ? Any terminology or topics a student
should study or research in advance?

What are the best times of day/of the week to observe?

Would a student shadowing with you need to be available in the evenings or on weekends, too?

Are there any possible health or medical risks or exposures associated with your place of business or
profession? (list those) Continued on next page.
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IS OSHA/HIPAA TRAINING REQUIRED?

DO YOU OFFER IT?

Are there any restricted or non-access areas for students under the age of 18? (list those)

Would a student shadowing you be able to fully experience all aspects of your job? What might be
some limitations a student would experience?

Can you think of any opportunities a student might have to practice or simulate practice with your
profession? A project or task that would allow a student to get professional experience and
feedback?

Is there a required dress code for your profession or that you would prefer for a student mentee?
(elaborate on those expectations here)

Are there any special equipment needs or supplies needed by a student mentee?

DATE OF INTERVIEW: _________________

MENTOR SIGNATURE OR VERIFYING PHONE NUMBER: ___________________

STUDENT MAY NOT RECEIVE REMUNERATION FOR WORK

COMPLETED AT THE MENTORSHIP SITE.
WHAT QUESTIONS DO YOU HAVE FOR US?
PLEASE CALL US AT (757) 648-5550 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST!
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STUDENT NAME

P R O J E C T

G U I D E

STUDENT/MENTOR/ACADEMY
CONTRACT

Due from capstone students

with proposal.

___________________________________________________________

MENTOR SITE _____________________________MENTOR NAME ________________________

AREAS OF MENTOR CONCENTRATION

__________________________________________

I, (student name) _____________________________, AGREE TO COMPLETE OBSERVATIONAL

TIME AT ____________________________________(site) UNDER THE SUPERVISION AND
DIRECTION OF (mentor)
________________________.

I PLAN TO SPEND _______ HOURS WITH MY PRIMARY MENTOR. MY MENTOR HAS APPROVED MY
PROPOSED TIMELINE FOR OBSERVATIONS.

I AM SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR TRANSPORTATION.

I, (mentor name)
_____________________________________, AGREE TO SUPERVISE,
GUIDE, AND DIRECT THE ABOVE STUDENT DURING HIS/HER OBSERVATION TIME.

Students Signature & Date

Mentors Signature & Date

Academy Advisor

Parents Approval & Date

______________________________
Parents Email Address
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P R O J E C T

Due from capstone and research

students by January of senior year.

G U I D E

PRIMARY MENTOR AND EXPERT SCIENTIST EVALUATION FORM

STUDENTS NAME ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

MENTORS NAME

SCORING:

Superior / A Grade

Below Average / D Grade

Above Average / B Grade

Unsuccessful / Failure

Average / C Grade

PLEASE CHECK THE APPROPRIATE SCORE FOR

EACH CATEGORY:

1.

QUALITY OF WORK

2.

QUANTITY OF WORK

3.

RELIABILITY

4.

PUNCTUALITY

5.

DRESS AND BEHAVIOR

6.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH PEOPLE

7.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

8.

INITIATIVE

9.

ORGANIZATION

STUDENT STRENGTHS
SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT

Mentors Signature & Date

Students Signature & Date

STUDENT COMMENTS SHOULD BE ATTACHED AS DEEMED APPROPRIATE.

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SENIOR RESEARCH PROJECT

Due from research students

with proposal.

STUDENT/FACULTY RESEARCH ADVISOR CONTRACT

Each student researcher is required to schedule regular monthly meetings with his/her Faculty Research Advisor.
Meeting more than once a month is recommended and encouraged.
Each student will be required to seek funding for his/her Senior Research Project. It the student chooses to finance the
project, then the student should anticipate expenses up to, but not to exceed, $250.
Students are required to identify and request advice/assistance from someone whose field of expertise would be part of
his/her research. The student is to use this expert as a resource for additional information and research recommendations.
The student should meet with this individual a minimum of 3 times over the course of his/her research (once at the
beginning to conduct the interview, once prior to data collection, and once to discuss conclusions). See back.

The Faculty Research Advisor and the Academy Senior Advisor, Mrs. Graves, both grade the research
paper using the rubric available each July on the Edmodo page. Research student grades are based on
the following components:
Scientific Log
Research Paper
Formal Presentation
Trifold

The graded Research Paper will incorporate evidence of the following:

1. Independent background investigation prior to developing experimental procedures (literature review)
3. Experimental procedure and data collection
5. Data analysis and conclusion
6. Technical writing skills and ability to convey information and knowledge to a reader with a limited scientific
background.

During the course of the research, the student is expected to keep a log containing the following:
1. Literature review written from the background researchwill be required for first meeting in September.
2. Notes of meetings detailing suggestions and decisions made during these meetings
3. Notations and diagrams of experimental design and procedure
4. Data
5. Analysis and conclusion obtained from data
As the research project progresses, the student will be expected to begin writing his/her final report for submission to
the Academy Advisor. The student can expect the Faculty Research Advisor to proofread the report as it evolves. In
order to prevent procrastination, the Faculty Research Advisor and student, at the beginning of the project, will create
a timeline for when various parts of the research are to be completed. The student is required to meet the deadlines
unless an extension has been granted in writing by the Faculty Research Advisor and the Academy Advisor.
The student is required to participate in a competition or submit to a publication. Failure to do so will result in
his/her final, overall, grade being lowered by one letter grade. Students must be aware of competition dates prior
to entry, and they must only enter competitions to which they can commit their attendance.

_________________

_______________________________

Students Name

Students Signature & Date

_________________
Parents Name

Parents Signature & Date

__________________
Faculty Research Advisors Name

Faculty Research Advisors Signature & Date

*NOTE: Faculty research advisor will be assigned during proposal review.

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EXPERT SCIENTIST INTERVIEW FORM

Due from research students

with proposal.

To be completed by the student during the initial conversation with the advising expert. Interviews may be conducted in person or over the
phone. You may take notes here or on a separate sheet you attach to this form.

DATE OF INTERVIEW: ___________ __________PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT: __________________

ADDRESS __________________________________________________________________
PHONE

__________________ FAX

EXPERT ADVISOR NAME & TITLE

____________ E-MAIL

__________________

_______________________________________________

What is your area of expertise?

__________________________________________________________________________
If working on research with a university researcher:
What will my role be in this research project and where in the scheme of the larger work does

my contribution fall?

What background knowledge will I need to be a contributing member to your team?

What skills or equipment familiarity will I need to develop prior to beginning my work?

__________________________________________________________________________
If working on a research project you design:
Share your initial plan with the expert you hope will serve as your expert advisor.
Jot down the questions the professional would like for you to answer/consider prior to their

agreeing to work with you.

Once you have answered those questions in writing, provide them to the expert and attach to
this sheet.

I agree to serve as an advising expert on this project and will meet with this student two more times
(once prior to data collection, and once after data analysis) to discuss the students work.
Experts Signature or Verifying Phone Number: ___________________________________
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Due from both capstone and

research students with proposal.

P R O J E C T

G U I D E

Proposals for Academy Senior Projects

Class of 2017

Proposal Reminders:
1. Objectives should be stated in measurable terms. (The proposal objectives should indicate specific student
experiences during the mentorship.)
2. The experience and product must be directly related to mathematics, science, or technology.
3. If you are applying for a summer program, you must have proof of acceptance before the project will be approved.
However, your objectives still should be measurable and your timeline still should be detailed.
4. All forms must be completed with the appropriate signatures before the proposal will be approved.
5. You may not begin the mentorship or the research project until final written approval is received.
6. If you change your capstone or research project topic after it has been approved, you must submit a change
request, have it approved in writing, and have permission from the Academy Advisor or Academy Coordinator before
beginning the new mentorship or project.

Reminders for Academy Seniors 2017

I have read and understand that I must meet the following requirements during the 20152017 school years.
1. I understand that I must spend at least 140 hours working on my project. I understand that those hours must be
properly documented as outlined in this guidebook.
2.

I understand that I must have an advising expert for my project. I understand that I must interview that expert
prior to submitting my proposal. I also understand that I must participate in the Capstone Fair during the
symposium event celebrating my collaboration with a community expert.

3. I will adhere to the timelines provided in the blue booklet and by the Academy Advisor or Academy Coordinator.
Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the Academy Program.
4. I understand that if I miss two meetings with the Academy Advisor or Research Advisor that I will be required
to meet with Mr. King, that I will lose my Early Release/Late Arrival block, that I will be assigned to a senior
project class, and that a deduction in my grade will occur.
5. I understand that if I miss more than one deadline for turning in the draft of a written component that I will be
required to meet with Mr. King, that I will lose my Early Release/Late Arrival block, that I will be assigned to a
senior project class, and that a deduction in my grade will occur.
6. I understand that I must practice my presentation with the Academy Advisor prior to the date of the
presentation. Also, I understand that if I do not fulfill the presentation component of the Senior Project that I will
be withdrawn from the Academy Program.
7. Failure to complete the senior project requirement will result in removal from the Academy. Such consequences of
this action include graduating without the Academy seal and medallion, a failing grade for this credit, and a return
to the students home school.

_________________________

__________________________

Students Signature & Date

Parents Signature , Email Address & Date

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PROTOCOL FOR SEEKING A MENTOR OR EXPERT RESEARCH ADVISOR

When working with professionals, you must exercise professionalism. The following expectations
should be met when working through this process.
I. Initiate contact professionally
A. Do some research into the professional with whom you hope to work. What research
have they done? What type of work happens at their place of business? Often a simple
Google search will turn up a good deal of this information.
B. Send a letter of introduction (see next page for suggested template).
C. Copy your letter to Mrs. Graves either through email or by placing a hard copy in her
mailbox.
D. If needed, follow-up on your initial contact with a phone call to arrange a meeting or
phone interview.
E. Prepare for your initial conversation
F. Read this guidebook thoroughly. Know what is expected of you.
G. Review your initial research into this professional.
H. Prepare questions in addition to those on the required interview document.
I. Students who are able to do work that is similar to the work of the professional have the
most enriching experiences. What type of work do you think could happen while at this
mentorship? Reviewing test data? Working on a task that the professional is working on
and getting feedback from the professional?
III. Be early to your initial meeting.
A. Bring your guidebook with you.
B. Bring your questions and the interview sheet.
C. Dress professionallythey may wear jeans or other work appropriate attire; however, for
your first meeting, until you ask the professional what dress is appropriate for you, please
wear business attire (slacks and button up shirt, or school appropriate dress/skirt and
top).
D. Do not pull out your phoneput it on silent! If you need to put a date in your phone
calendar, ask the professional if you may pull out your phone to do so. Apply this same
rule to your mentorship/research experience.
IV. Be respectful of the professionals time.
A. Shake hands and make eye contact.
B. Do not assume the professional will say yes to your request.
C. If the professional agrees to serve as your mentor, discuss your timeline for your work.
Then be prepared to stick to it. No dropping in and out as you please!
D. Follow-up with a thank you.
E. A handwritten or typed thank you note mailed to the place of business. Is in order
whether you get a yes or a no!
F. Remember you are representatives of our program; please know that professionals may be
making assumptions about ALL academy students based on the impression you leave.
Leave a good one.

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LETTER OF INTRODUCTION TEMPLATE

Student Name
Mailing address: street or PO Box
Town, State, Zip
Phone Number
Date (The day you type the letter. Type out the name of the month.)
To Whom It May Concern or Dear Dr./Mr./Mrs. ___________________:
1st Paragraph: Start with a sentence that introduces who you are and that you are writing this letter as a way of
introducing yourself and the senior capstone project generally. Describe two to three of your strengths,
outstanding qualities or personal characteristics, your philosophy or anything else that will allow the reader to
get a little idea about what kind of a person you are. (No more than six sentences total.)
2nd Paragraph: Describe your goals for your mentorship or research experience. What do you know of this
profession, this place of business, or of this potential mentor that would indicate that working with this
professional would help you work towards your goals? (Usually six sentences total.)
Closing Paragraph: End with a sentence or two thanking the professional for considering working with you
during this senior project process and indicating that you would like to meet in person to discuss the details of
the project. (Two to three sentences total.)
Sincerely,
Sign your name
Type your name
Contact Information (cell number or home number where you can be reached)
Cc: Allison Graves, Academy Advisor (This means you will copy this letter to me either through email or
through my mailbox at school, and it lets the mentor know that you will be doing so, too.)

Things to remember
-The letter must be word processed, 12 point font, and no longer than one page.
-Proof read this carefully. Sentences must flow together and grammatical conventions must be
perfect.
-This should have voice. In other words, it should sound like you. Those who read it should have
a better idea of who you are and what is important to you without having met you.
-Do not include hour requirements or paper/presentation requirements. Those are better
addressed in person or during a phone conversation.
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The Mission of the Mathematics & Science Academy is to provide a rigorous &
innovative academic program focused upon mathematics & science, which
inspires & empowers students to pursue related careers & to make significant
contributions to the global community.
The Vision of the Mathematics & Science Academy is to exemplify
the best in mathematics and science education through the
integration of 21st century skills, current technologies, and
authentic applications that inspire and engage students who will
become STEM professionals contributing to a global community
through innovative achievements, leadership, and service.

The Mathematics & Science Academy

Ocean Lakes High School
885 Schumann Drive
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454
Phone: 757-648-5550 (ext 57812)
Fax: 757-721-4309

Be sure youve joined the Edmodo group for the

Academy Class of 2017:

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