For ICS’s 12th graders, the school’s senior thesis project is both tough and rewarding. We got the lowdown on how it’s giving them real world skills that’ll help them through university and beyond...
Getting our teens ready for college is no easy task — there’s a lot to think about! From filling out tedious application forms to picking the right school and making sure they’re ready, it’s almost as tough as getting accepted into a prestigious university. The folks at ICS (Singapore) know all about how competitive it can get out there. Which is why it requires its high school students to complete a Senior Thesis project: a mandatory capstone project in order to graduate. Here’s what else we found out about the Senior Thesis project at ICS…
1. Every student at ICS is required to complete a Senior Thesis project
In order to graduate at ICS, students in their final year of high school must complete their Senior Thesis project. This university-level research project is similar to the IB program’s Extended Essay — they function the same way as they both enable students to develop the capacity to analyse, think critically and evaluate knowledge.
2. Students get to choose a topic based on their personal interests
Throughout the entire first semester, students must write a research paper, evaluating and creating knowledge about a topic of personal interest that is often related to a future career or intended area of study.
“It is an opportunity for students to apply and refine their research and critical thinking skills. Students are given the freedom to dig deeper into a topic of interest at a highly academic level,” explains Middle & high School Principal Darryl Harding, “It requires deep thinking around a focused thesis, data collection and analysis and application.”
And yes, students can focus on any topic they’re interested in! Sierra Sanchez, one of the Senior Thesis advisors remarks, “Each year, our students choose to study some really interesting topics, ranging from edible insects to the fashion industry, American politics, aerodynamics, parenting, and more! It’s fun to observe how each student’s unique personality and creativity affects his or her topic.”
3. It’s a chance for students to experience university-level challenges
Because of the rigorous research and effort involved, the Senior Thesis project gives students the chance to experience university-level work.
”The standard of writing, the level of academic integrity expected, the analysis and the amount of work required were all a step-up from anything I did before. I really grew in my academic prowess through this project,” says senior Jeremy Graves.
And it’s not only the current students who are benefiting from the Senior Thesis project — many alumni from ICS say that the Senior Thesis was one of the most transformative experiences of their education and greatly contributed to their career successes. That’s pretty good news, we think!
Want to learn more about ICS (Singapore)’s high school programs? Visit the school’s website or book a school tour today!
This post is in partnership with ICS (Singapore)