Senior Capstone

Senior Capstone at Woodlawn is a nine month field-based inquiry project where students immerse themselves in the research of any one topic of their choosing. They are encouraged to pick a topic or passion of personal interest that has many avenues through which to explore. Once they narrow their interests down, they come up with a ‘big question’ and/or problem to investigate. Students are guided in: doing field research, connecting their project back to the community, applying their findings to the execution of a culminating presentational product, and documenting the project process.

Overview

• Students are set up with a scaffolded ‘framework’ that includes objectives, benchmarks, and monthly deadlines.
• Students meet with a teacher advisor throughout the nine-month process plus find a personal mentor to converse with regularly about their project.
• Towards the end of the process, internships around the research are arranged and completed by the students.
• All presentations of products take place in May of the Senior year. The final presentation should demonstrate the student’s mastery level of their topic.

2022 Senior Capstones:

"I explored the ways social media can be used as a tool to grow a company as well as how crucial this type of branding has become."

"I investigated how nutrition can battle disease by exploring various methods to improve our health and energy levels in our daily lives."

"I researched the extent to which luxury and sustainability can coexist in architecture. I discovered that luxury is not only a possible approach to sustainable design but, in many ways, is the only approach."

"I researched historic and modern methods of designing and procuring jewelry without harming people or the planet."

"I explored the relationship between fashion marketing and inclusivity."

"I examined how the field of archaeology and genetics can be used in order to modify, confirm, or deny stories of the past and how those stories can help us going forward."

"I investigated the history behind modern food phenomena and how to understand and improve day-to-day cooking."

"I delved into what factors cause and maintain BDD and eating disorders. Ultimately, I learned how to create a body image environment and how to teach the importance of respecting yourself and others."