Senior Project Handbook 2016-2018 - · PDF file2 This handbook was adapted for CLA from the Maui High School Senior Project Guide. CHAPTER 1: INTRO TO SENIOR PROJECT What is Senior

This handbook was adapted for CLA from the Maui High School Senior Project Guide.

Christian Liberty Academy

16-75 Milo St.

Kea'au, Hawai'i 9674

808-966-8445

Senior Project Handbook

2016-2018

Mission

We seek to train and encourage students spiritually, academically, physically, and socially

according to principles from the Word of God. (Luke 2:52; Colossians 1:28-29)

Senior Project Coordinator

Mrs. Lisa Mason

Christian Liberty Academy

16-675 Milo St.

Keaau, HI 96749

808-966-8445

1


Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction to Senior Project……………........................... 2

What is Senior Project?……………........................... 2

The Project…………….............................................. 3

The Paper……………................................................ 3

The Portfolio……………........................................... 3

The Presentation……………...................................... 3

How Will this Affect My Grade?................................ 4

Policies…………………………………………….... 4

Project Calendar…………………………………….. 5

Chapter 2: Choosing a Topic…………………………………………… 6

Senior Project Ideas…………………………………………… 7-8

Chapter 3: The Project…………………………………………………. 9

Mentor Qualifications & Responsibilities…………………….. 10

Letter to Mentor………………………………………………. 11

Chapter 4: The Argumentative Research Paper……………………….. 12

Sample Ideas: Research Area, Topic & Product……………….14

Yes Test……………………………………………………….. 15

Plagiarism Policy……………………………………………… 16

Chapter 5: The Portfolio……………………………………………….. 17

Portfolio Yes Test………………………………………………18

Portfolio Scoring Rubric………………………………………. 20

Chapter 6: The Presentation……………………………………………. 21

Presentation Guide…………………………………………….. 22-24

Presentation Rubric……………………………………………. 25

Details to Remember………………………………………….. 26

Equipment Request Form……………………………………... 27

Appendix A: Senior Project Forms…………………………………….. 28

Senior Project Proposal & Approval Form…………................ 29-32

Commitment Poster/Portfolio Cover………………………… 33

Parent/Guardian Consent & Liability Release Form………… 34

Mentor Information & Agreement Form……………………… 35

Project Log……………………………………………………. 36

Journal Log & Sample………………………………………… 37

Journal Log……………………………………………………. 38-39

Mentor Evaluation form………………………………………. 40

Self-Evaluation……………………………………………….. 41

Thank you Letter to Mentor Requirements & Template……… 42

Sample Thank you Letter to Mentor & Envelope Format ……. 43

Letter to Judges Guidelines & Template…………………….... 44

Sample Letter to Judges………………………………………. 45

Resume Template…………………………………………….. 46

2


CHAPTER 1: INTRO TO SENIOR PROJECT

What is Senior Project?

Beginning with the Class of 2018, Senior Project is an official graduation requirement at Christian

Liberty Academy. Each student will have the opportunity to choose a special topic of interest to

investigate their senior year. Each project will fall within one or two focus categories (STEM, or

Society/Arts/Culture) and must involve the participation of a community mentor, documented

community service or field hours and/or a “product”, a visual/oral presentation, and a research report.

The goal of the senior project is to help students develop deeper understanding on a particular topic

while allowing them an opportunity to engage and enhance their community. Senior Project is

overseen by the Senior Project Coordinator, advising teachers, and community mentors. These

individuals together form each student’s Senior Project Committee. Every student will maintain a

project binder that documents their progress throughout their project. Binders are monitored by an

advising teacher and guidance counselor. Completion of the planning binder and final presentations

are required. A successful Senior Project will demonstrate aspects of the following Student Learning

Objectives as presented in the CLA Student Handbook:

Spiritual

● To view all of life through the lens of a distinctively Christian worldview

(2 Corinthians 10:5)

Academic

● To value academic challenges (Proverbs 1:7b; 2:3–5)

● To become competent in extracting information for a variety of purposes (Proverbs 24:3–6)

● To use information and critical thinking to solve problems (Ecclesiastes 9:13–16)

● To communicate information, the results of critical analysis, and the solutions to problems using

a variety of media (1 Corinthians 14:7–12)

● To acquire a deeper understanding of the works of God (Psalm 111:2)

Socially

● To develop a biblical attitude toward and an appreciation of culture and heritage (Acts 17:22–

34)

● To demonstrate biblical love for others through attitudes of respect and actions of service

(Romans 13:10; Galatians 5:13–14)

● To accept responsibility for their actions, words, and continued learning (Matthew 12:36–37;

Romans 14:12)

● To participate in the divine mandate to exercise stewardship over creation (Genesis 1:28)

The Senior Project will consist of four major components:

● the project/product

● the research paper

● the portfolio

● the presentation

3


The Senior Project/Product The project is the core of the Senior Project experience. You will be choosing a project which

extends your learning, stretches your potential, and challenges your abilities. The project will

be based on a topic you are initially unfamiliar with, or knew little beforehand, that is

interesting to you. Your project forges a link between you, the school, and the community, as

you work with a mentor, discover community resources, and/or gain valuable career related

experiences.

For example…A possible project for someone who might be interested in a career in

advertising would be to design an effective sustained advertising campaign around a societal

problem such as teenage smoking - MORE than just a single poster or recording. The

PROJECT is the whole experience, the PRODUCT is the campaign. Simply learning about

advertising and campaigning is not enough.

The Senior Research Paper The research paper is the final document that defends your specific claim (related to topic),

and answers a research/investigative question, while defining specific elements of the project

experience. The most popular style for the research paper is the “argumentative” format,

where the author aims to get the reader to accept (not just agree with) his/her case and

perspective by presenting relevant reasons and credible data. The paper will be completed

using MLA formatting, approximately 10-12 pages in length, 1.5 spaced, and including 5 or

more primary sources. A works cited page must be included. More detailed information will

be provided in Senior English.

The Senior Portfolio Since much of the work on your Senior Project will be done outside of class, you will want

to keep accurate records of the time you invested, how much money you spent, where you

went, who you talked to, what you learned, and so on. The portfolio is simply a place to

keep a record of your information. Eventually, your portfolio will be examined by your

Senior Project advising teacher and graded for completeness and attention to detail.

The Senior Presentation Finally, you will present your project at the spring Senior Presentation Symposium. You

will make a formal presentation to a panel of judges including parents, teachers, and other

community members. You will discuss your project and paper, the process you followed,

what you learned along the way, and your personal growth as a result of your ambitious

project. If you’ve chosen a project which really excites you and captures your interest, your

enthusiasm will shine through to your Board, your parents, friends and the community.

4


How will this project affect my grade?

An excellent question! Your research paper and portfolio are embedded in your first semester

English 12 and Guidance 12 grade and your presentation is embedded in your second semester

Guidance 12 grade. Completing these components are mandatory to pass both classes. This is a

graduation requirement. The Senior Project must be challenging and demonstrate a learning stretch.

A learning stretch requires a student to move from one level of understanding and knowledge to the

next. A learning stretch means growth. There will be times when you may seem overwhelmed or

frustrated. Growth cannot happen without discomfort. Creating a well-thought out schedule and

step-by-step guide is important because it will remove as much stress from the growth process as

possible. Meet deadlines, ask for help and do not procrastinate so that you can enjoy this

achievement.

Policies

● Your English teacher has the option to amend or add assignments and assign points to

facilitate success. These practices will vary from teacher to teacher.

● Communication is the key. If a major change is necessary to your project, please discuss the circumstances with your advising teacher or guidance counselor. If you do change it,

write a new proposal and give copies to the senior project coordinator.

● Whether your project takes place on or off-campus, your senior project is school related and you are a representative of Christian Liberty Academy. As such, you are bound by the

Christian Liberty Academy student handbook. If your behavior falls below these standards,

you will receive appropriate school discipline and your senior project and possibly your

graduation may be jeopardized.

● You must pass all four components of Senior Project to pass your English class, Guidance 12 class, and graduate. However, passing Senior Project does not guarantee you will pass

the class.

● Partner projects are discouraged.

● Materials (not limited to) Flash/ “Jump” Drive, 3 ring binder w/ view, Clear protector sheets, access to a computer and camera (cellphone), envelopes, index cards, stamp,

printer/ink, etc.

LATE POLICIES:

❖ September 7, 2017 is the last day to change your project. A personal interview with the Senior Project Coordinator is needed to make any changes.

.

.

5


CLA SENIOR PROJECT TIMELINE

August 18, 2017 Senior Project Proposal due to Mrs. Mason

August 21-28, 2017 Senior Project Approval returned

September 7, 2017 Last day to change project (mtg. w/Mrs. Mason req.)

September 14, 2017 Mentor Agreement signed

September 14, 2017 Signed Parent Consent/Liability form

September 21, 2017 Commitment Poster/Portfolio Cover

October 5, 2017 Research Paper Topic Proposal due, Plagiarism Policy due (Eng)

October 31, 2017 Last day to change Research Paper Topic (mtg. w/Mrs. Oertel req.)

December 7, 2017 Completion of 20 hours w/ evidence (G12)

December 14, 2017 Portfolio Check - Binder w/ Sheet Protectors (G12)

December 8-15, 2017 Research Paper Draft #1 due (Eng)

January 16, 2018 Draft #1 returned to students by this day

January 31, 2018 Research Paper Draft #2 due (Eng)

January 31, 2018 Completed Portfolio due (G12)

February 13, 2018 Draft #2 returned to students by this day

February 23, 2018 Research Paper FINAL (Draft #3) due (Eng)

February 28, 2018 Late Papers Drop-Dead Date (with penalty)/ “Not Yet” due (Eng)

March-April 2018 Practice Presentations (G12 & Eng)

Mid-April 2018 Senior Project Symposium - 2 days

(exact dates TBD) All students must be in attendance on these dates - TBD

May 25, 2018 Graduation!

** Dates subject to change**

6


CHAPTER 2: CHOOSING A TOPIC

How do I pick a topic?

Choosing a topic for your Senior Project is a crucial first step. A good senior project topic:

● Is something you’re excited about. Why spend your senior year doing something you really

don’t care about?

● Challenges you. Now is not the time to recycle a project you did earlier. If you’re still interested in that earlier topic, use your original project as the springboard to learning more

about the topic.

● Is researchable. You have to write a Senior Research Paper that requires sources – make sure you’ll be able to find information.

● Let’s apply your knowledge. The Senior Product is your chance to do something with your new knowledge.

To find the perfect Senior Project topic trust your interests and passions. Think about all of the

interesting things in your neighborhood, your school, your state, or things you like to fix, do, learn,

see, improve, create, experience, or own. Make sure your topic will lend itself to both an

interesting research paper and product.

● A student who had epilepsy when she was younger wrote her paper about different types of

epilepsy, volunteered at a hospital working with epileptic children.

● A student concerned about the environment wrote her paper about global warming and created a mosaic which she donated to the school.

● A swimmer interested in coaching researched how to create a strong team and then designed a website with individual, team, and conference times and pictures to help motivate the

teams.

● A student from a hunting family (but not a hunter herself) learned the art of taxidermy and mounted a deer head.

Still stuck? Maybe you can find some ideas from the following pages.

7


Topic Project/Product Hours Tae Kwon Do Teach Tae Kwon Do classes

Women as firefighters Job shadow a female firefighter

Abstract Art-Major Trends Paint something in that style

Massage Therapy Job shadow OR obtain a masseuse license

Acting techniques Direct a one-act play

The health benefits of Yoga Take yoga classes and write a story

Landscaping Landscape designs or Job shadow

Teenage Pregnancy Work w/ a local agency

Automobiles Re-build carburetors OR organize an oil change day

for community

Meteorology Make a weather station

Drug counseling therapy Create a self-help pamphlet

Dyslexia Tutor a dyslexic child

Causes of Homelessness Volunteer at a shelter/organize food-clothing drive

Government Programs Job shadow or photo essay

Acoustics Build speakers and create detailed “How-To” guide

ADHD Tutor a child with ADHD

Media ethics Create a school newspaper

Italian cuisine Job shadow and create a menu for a restaurant

Avoiding prison Create character-building lesson plans for youth

Censorship on radio Job shadow at a radio station

Weightlifting for women Design a fitness regimen and teach a workshop

Coaching Coach a team (AYSO, little league…)

Sports Organize & conduct a clinic for kids

Obesity Job shadow a dietician

Internet & children Teach several elementary classes at CLA or elsewhere

Taxes Learn to do your own taxes, job shadow a CPA

Animal Abuse Volunteer at the animal shelter, create social media

campaign

Kindergarten students Organize an “Ocean Awareness Day” for 3-5 year olds

Pollution effects on ecosystems Organize a recycling campaign OR beach clean-up

Cheerleading Coach a squad

Battered women Volunteer at a shelter, create a social media campaign

Criminal Justice System Job shadow an attorney or corrections officer

Effective Advertising Campaign Design an effective, sustained ad for a product

Down Syndrome Design drills & coach a Special Olympics sport

Effective Reading Strategies Design lesson and teach an elem. class

Making a small business work Job shadow at a small shop/business

8


Topic Project/Product Hours

Building/Construction Build a chest using specific techniques

Polynesian navigating Volunteer with Na Kalai Wa’a

Pollution of Tide Pools Organize a community group to support a local bill

The cooking styles of Hawaiians Make at least 5 ethnic dishes for an anti-diabetes

campaign in community

Poetry through Music Participate in a poetry reading OR create a collection

of your own poems (poem books don’t count from

english)

Editing Make a music video (digital media students exempt)

Guitar customization Learn or teach guitar, give a school performance

The Japanese Garden Attend classes on the art of bonsai or floral design

American Golf Course Design Create a model of a self-designed golf course with

simulation

YouTube’s effect on amateur movie Produce a short film

Videography Prepare a video for incoming freshman (digital media

students exempt)

Peer/media influences on teen clothing Organize a fashion show

Cultural differences in dress styles Create patterns and sew one outfit for display in

gallery

The influence of hip-hop Create a demo with 6 original songs

Modern Robotics Create a robotic hand, etc.

Investing in the stock market Job shadow an investment broker

Build Construction Volunteer with Habitat for Humanity

Art of silk screening Design, create, and sell a t-shirt for club

Television Advertising Submit tv commercial in a contest

Study of magic Design and implement show at elem.

Care of Elderly Volunteer at a nursing home

Marketing Fashion Sketch and sew

The De-evolution of Radio DJ at a radio station

Animal Abuse Humane Society volunteer

Floral design Learn & make floral arrangements for a special event

Internet impact on business Design web pages

Hearing Impaired Take a sign language class, awareness campaign

Silent films Make a silent movie and host a “matinee”

Exercise Organize a walk-a-thon, sign up to be a Zumba

instructor

Hydropower Create a model

Accounting Job Shadow

Dentistry Job shadow

Digital photo vs. film Job shadow or make a portfolio

Running Train for and run in a marathon

Ministry Volunteer with local ministry

Handicapped Housing Design barrier-free house

9


CHAPTER 3: THE PROJECT

Minimum requirements of the Project

Your project must… ● be a personal stretch and challenge

● involve a minimum of 20 hours of service or field work

● be approved by the SP Committee (mentor, teacher advisor, and guidance counselor)

● be legal and cause no harm to any living being

● be obviously connected to your topic and research paper

● inspire positive citizenry, possibly focuses on creating a solution that can help solve a community

problem

● involve collaboration between you and your mentor

● have a minimum of 5 photos of YOU constructing or performing the following products from start to

finish

Product Choice 1: JOB SHADOW (CAREER)- is an actual real-life experience with a

professional in a chosen profession of interest. Do not shadow a relative. Your place of

employment will not be accepted as job shadow hours. You are encouraged to be an active

participant in the experience rather than a latent bystander. Ideas:

1. Police Station/ Law Enforcement

2. Art Studio/ Gallery and Exhibition Coordinator

3. Food Co-Op/ Farmer

4. Medical Practitioner/ Public Health Officer

5. Engineer/ County Planner

Product Choice 2: COMMUNITY SERVICE is volunteer work. Your service must be performed

at a legitimate, certified organization to receive your service hours. Ideas:

1. Sweet Cane Cafe

2. Human Society

3. Big Island Food Bank

4. Downtown Improvement Association

5. Malama O Puna

Product Choice 3: ACADEMIC CHALLENGE OR PERSONAL EXPLORATION– is a

commodity you can show. It must be created, organized, or produced by you, the student.

Ideas: 1. Documentary film-create a film which showcases historical places/events

2. CD-Create original songs for an event

3. Website-Create a poetry website and invite students to share their writings

4. Paintings or Mural-create a scene and donate your art to an organization

5. Health Fair or Fundraising-sponsor a drive which include the general public or school

6. Workshops or Camps-organize & conduct a sports camp; create a lesson plan

7. STEM research project overseen by an expert in a particular science area, submission to science fair

These are only suggested product ideas. Do not limit your project decision to the choices on this page.

10


MENTOR QUALIFICATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES

All students need a mentor.

What is a mentor? ● A person who will provide expertise, support, perspective, feedback, acceptance,

understanding, verification, and evaluation of the student and the project.

● A person whom the student can trust and with whom the student can develop a relationship.

● A person who will listen.

Mentor Qualifications

● must be over the age of 21

● must be knowledgeable (ideally an expert) about the topic or project choice

● must NOT be a family member or significant other

How do you make contact? Contact the prospective mentor by phone or e-mail or arrange a meeting in a public place. Ask

your parents or teachers for suggestions, but do not depend on teachers to find your mentor for you.

When you do find a mentor, go over deadlines for the Senior Project to make sure they have the

time to help you. Inform your parents of who the mentor will be and introduce your parents to

them. Your parent(s) must give their permission for you to work with this mentor. **A signed

Mentor Agreement form must be turned in before you start.

During the project

❖ Record all of your plan time, phone call time, work time on the Project Log

❖ Write about your experience (8 minimum entries) on the Journal Log

❖ Make and keep appointments

❖ Be on time

❖ Listen and follow directions and/or policies

❖ Be respectful and courteous

After the project

❖ Make sure your mentor fills out the Mentor Evaluation form and e-mails it to the Senior Project coordinator.

❖ A verbal thank you is always appreciated, but a written thank-you note would be appreciated even more.

11


Dear Potential Mentor:

You have been proposed as a mentor for the Senior Project; thank you for considering this valuable donation

of your time and expertise. An involved and knowledgeable mentor is an important part of student success in

this graduation requirement. Please take a moment to read this overview of the mentor’s job before signing

the agreement to act as a mentor. Specific Senior Project information can be found on the CLA web site at

www.clahawaii.org.

Who could be a mentor? What do mentors do?

∙ The mentor should have experience, knowledge and resources in the area of the student’s project

activity, and be willing to spend time supporting the student in the project activity. Although some mentors

choose to become involved with other aspects of the project, such as the research paper or presentation, this

is not required—the mentor’s obligation is to support the student in his/her 20 hour project activity.

∙ The mentor must be at least 21 years old and should not be a close relation of the student’s. The

student should not be paying the mentor or receiving payment for services directly related to the project.

∙ A mentor might: propose modifications or additions to a student’s original proposal; create a time

frame for completing the project; share information or demonstrate technique; inspect project progress; give

constructive criticism; connect a student with resources for a next step; provide an estimated cost to complete

the project; introduce a student to other knowledgeable adults; suggest solutions to problems that arise; alert

the school staff when extra support is needed.

What are the mentor’s responsibilities?

● Meet with the student during the summer or early in the fall semester to ensure mutual understanding

of the planned scope and outcome of the project. ● Sign a hard copy of the Mentor Information & Agreement Form, indicating you have read this letter

and are qualified and willing to serve as a mentor on a specific project. ● Work with the student throughout the project activity, meeting with the student often enough to be

aware of problems and efforts. Sign & complete the Project Log hard copy, verifying the time spent

on the project. ● Sign a Mentor Evaluation Form hard copy when the project activity is completed, certifying that the

student’s activity was carried out as planned and described. ● Contact your student’s Senior Project Coordinators if you have concerns about the student or the

project.

Mentors offer invaluable real-world education and advice, offering bridges to the adult community our

students will soon be joining. We look forward to working with you in this important partnership. Please

feel free to contact the Senior Project Coordinator or anyone working with the student at Christian Liberty

Academy on his/her senior project during the year. This is especially important if you have any concerns

about the student you are mentoring.

Sincerely,

Lisa Mason

Senior Project Coordinator

12


CHAPTER 4: THE ARGUMENTATIVE RESEARCH PAPER

Within your overall Senior Project is the Senior Research Paper (or research paper). At the heart of

your paper is what we will call the “argument”, or central focus, of your research and writing. An

argumentative paper is usually a very technical piece of writing. However, in this case it will also

include components describing the evolution of your project, creation of your product, mentor-

mentee relationship, community impacts, and overall learning. Your project experience will help to

support the argument of your paper and convince the reader of the efficacy of your ideas relating to

your topic.

More specifically, an argumentative research paper is meant to make a claim, or take a position, on

a topic and justify this claim with specific evidence (in this case primary research and personal

experiences are your evidence). Sometimes the argument is created in response to questions the

researcher has about a topic. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that

your claim is true based on the evidence provided. Students are required to use the Purdue OWL as

a resource for MLA formatting and citations. A quick online tool to help with citations can be found

at www.easybib.com. Key points:

• Must include a counterargument

• All language should be formal

• Do not use contractions, slang or abbreviations.

• Write in the third person, when possible.

1) Formatting Guidelines

• A minimum of FIVE (5) full pages of plain text with a maximum of TEN (10) pages of plain text. Graphics/figures/tables and Works Cited page do not count toward the plain text

page requirements.

• Typewritten in 12 point Times New Roman font with 1” margins.

• The entire paper is to be 1.5 SPACED – heading, title, quotes, and works cited page.

• Do not double-double space between paragraphs.

• Be sure to indent your paragraphs.

• Each page must be labeled with your last name and numbered (except the title page). This is done by going to VIEW, Header/Footer, Header enter last name and click on icon for

page number. Tab over to the right margin and type your last name. (I.e. Mason 1, Mason

2…)

2) A minimum of five different sources must be cited in the paper.

• Interviews: One of your sources may be an interview with a person who is an expert on

your topic. Be sure to list the interviewed person’s qualifications in your works cited page.

• At least one source must be from magazines, journals, or periodicals.

• At least one source is a book.

• At least one source should be from the Internet, preferably authored websites with endings: .org, .gov, .edu.

• Wikipedia may not be used as a source within your paper. Electronic sources are acceptable

(books, magazines, journals, etc).

http://www.easybib.com/

13


3) The style of parenthetical documentation we are using is from the Modern Language

Association (MLA).

• This style uses parentheses to enclose the first item from the Works Cited which is usually the author’s last name. The parentheses must also have the page number the information

came from or paragraph number from an Internet article (if available).

• You must document ALL information you obtain from books, magazines, interviews and the Internet.

• The only information that does not need to be documented is information that is common

knowledge.

• As soon as you open the source, you are required to document the source from which you read or hear. This requirement applies to your interview as well. When in doubt,

document.

4) A list of works cited is required. It will appear at the end of your paper on a separate sheet. It

is an alphabetical list of sources that you have cited within your paper by using parentheses.

• Use the hanging indent selection in the paragraphing tool in the format option in Word. Click on Format on the toolbar, then click on Paragraph, go to the box that says Special and

click on Hanging. This function will use the hanging indent without you having to use the

tab key.

• Spacing is 1.5 for everything.

5) Plagiarism Policy

• You must attach the Plagiarism Policy to your final research paper. It must be signed by

both you and a parent/guardian. A copy of this is in the handbook.

The argument research paper components: 1. Research Paper, 5-12 pages

2. Works Cited

3. Signed Plagiarism policy

**Your English teacher will guide you and provide more information in class.

Note: Be sure that you have hard copies of ALL sources with text you used highlighted in the event your teacher, your mentor, or the Senior

Project Committee need the material to verify or further your paper’s argument. You may be required to turn these in, so BE READY with

them.

14


SAMPLE IDEAS

Research Area

Paper Topics Possible Product

ART Color print advertising results in

significantly greater sales than black

& white print advertising.

A series of window displays at

local businesses. Create a

portfolio of artwork.

Extra-Curricular

Activities

Students who participate in

extracurricular activities earn better

grades and fewer referrals than those

who do not.

Organize assemblies for school.

Chair a school/club activity.

Environment An effective community recycling

program creates jobs, reduces waste,

and saves natural resources.

Create a recycling program at

school or in your community—

report on the results.

Music Music Therapy improves the attitude

and decreases the recovery time of

hospital patients of all ages.

Create an original therapeutic

music video or music collection.

Donate it to a hospital.

Law Laws limiting the use of cellular

phones while driving have resulted in

a decrease in “distracted driving”

accidents.

Organize a mock trial/debate

team at school OR a driving

awareness rally/assembly

NOTE: These are just examples provided to show you the relationship between your research topic

and your product.

15


RESEARCH PAPER “YES TEST”

Name _________________________________________________ Date ___________________________

● Use this to review your paper to make certain that it meets certain basic requirements.

● If your paper receives a NO on any item listed below, you need to make revisions.

● The teacher will not score any paper that does not pass the Yes Test.

● Attach this YES test to your draft

YES No

_____ _____ 1. Is the entire paper typed? (12 point, New Times Roman font, 1.5 spaced)

_____ _____ 2. Is the text of your paper at least 5 full bodied pages?

_____ _____ 3. Is your claim in the first paragraph/ introduction?

State your claim:

_____ _____ 4. Does your conclusion restate your claim?

_____ _____ 5. Are your top, bottom, right, and left margins all set to 1 inch?

_____ _____ 6. Do your last name and the page number appear on each page at the top

right corner? (Title page should not be numbered)

_____ _____ 7. Is the heading on the first page all double spaced to the left?

_____ _____ 8. Is your paper written in the third person? (Do not use I, me, my, you, your, us)

_____ _____ 9. Does your Works Cited page have at least five sources?

_____ _____ 10. Are the sources all 1.5 spaced and in alphabetical order?

_____ _____ 11. Did you average at least 2 in-text citations per page?

_____ _____ 12. Did you put the periods following the parentheses of the citation?

_____ _____ 13. Do the in-text citations have the author’s name or the title before the page

number enclosed in the parentheses?

_____ _____ 14.Did you proofread the paper to catch any careless spelling/punctuation errors?

_____ _____ 15. Do you have a counter argument?

16


PLAGIARISM POLICY CHRISTIAN LIBERTY ACADEMY

Webster’s New World Dictionary, 3rd College Edition, states that to plagiarize is “to take ideas,

writing, etc. from another person and pass them off as one’s own.”

The submission of plagiarized material violates the established code of conduct at Christian Liberty

Academy.. Any Junior or Senior student who submits plagiarized material will be subject to the

following consequences:

● A grade of ZERO on the plagiarized work;

● Possible non-participation in graduation ceremony.

Additionally, the student will be required to revise and correct the plagiarized material. The revised

version of the paper will be submitted to the teacher within a time frame specified by the teacher.

The grade for the revised version of the paper will be averaged with the zero from the plagiarized

version, and the average score will be recorded as the research paper grade.

I have been provided with the definition of plagiarism and a list of consequences for the

submission of plagiarized material. I certify that my work is free of plagiarism.

_____________________________________ ____________________

Print student name Date

________________________________________

Student Signature

I have been provided with the definition of plagiarism and a list of consequences for Junior

and Senior students who submit plagiarized material at Christian Liberty Academy.

_____________________________________ _____________________

Print Parent/Guardian name Date

________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature

17


CHAPTER 5: THE PORTFOLIO

The Senior Project Portfolio is a professional presentation of the work you’ve done on your senior

project throughout the year. It justifies your stretch and challenge and lets your committee get to

know a little about you and what you learned before they “judge” your presentation. You must

include the items listed below, but you may include items not specifically mentioned on the list.

Materials needed for completion: ● 3 ring 1-2 inch binder with plastic covers

● Clear sheet protectors

● Stamped, Legal size envelope

Your portfolio must include: ▪ Cover page, typed (Use a copy of your commitment poster)

▪ Table of Contents

▪ Letter of Introduction to Judges

▪ Updated Resume

▪ Updated Personal Statement

▪ Senior Project Approval Form

▪ Parent Consent Form

▪ Mentor Agreement Form

▪ Mentor Evaluation Form

▪ Clean Copy of PASSING Research Paper **Added last

▪ Research paper grading rubric (with Passing Grade)

▪ Plagiarism Policy

▪ Project log (20 hour minimum)

▪ Journal log (8 entries minimum)

▪ Thank you Letter to Mentor

▪ Self-Evaluation (neatly handwritten or typed)

▪ Evidence: Include as many of the following as possible since evidence is important to convincing

your judges of the authenticity and learning stretch of your project.

● Certificates of completions (i.e. classes, job shadow, etc.)

● Photographs (with you in them, before-during-after, etc.)

● Sketches

● Receipts

● Sign in sheets

● Notes from classes and/or trainings

Tips for a successful portfolio: ● Be organized

● Appearance does matter…make it look pretty/professional

● Separate pages so each page can be viewed

(i.e. Senior Project Proposal & Research Paper)

● Neatness is essential; pay attention to details

18


Portfolio “Yes” Test

Student Name____________________________________________

In order to be assigned a presentation time you must submit your completed portfolio to your Mrs.

Oertel or Mrs. Mason. This checklist will help you make sure that you have all of the required

documents in your portfolio. If any of the items listed are missing or incomplete then your portfolio

is not yet complete. The documents listed are the minimum requirements. You are allowed to add

to the contents of your portfolio.

Please assemble your portfolio documents in exactly the same order as they appear on the

“Yes” Test. Check off each item on the checklist. This “Yes” Test should be placed on the

inside pocket of your portfolio.

Yes No Portfolio Item

_____ _____ 1 or 2 inch 8 ½ x 11 binder (with front view pocket)

_____ _____ All pages in portfolio are in protective cover sheets

_____ _____ Portfolio cover is on the outside cover of portfolio

_____ _____ All documents are neatly written and/or word processed

_____ _____ Table of contents

_____ _____ Updated resume

_____ _____ Letter to your Committee

_____ _____ Updated Personal Statement

_____ _____ Approved copy of Senior Project Proposal

_____ _____ Signed copy of Parent Consent & Liability form

_____ _____ Signed copy of Mentor Agreement Form

_____ _____ Clean copy of research paper including Works Cited & Plagiarism Policy

_____ _____ Research paper grading rubric (Must be passing grade)

_____ _____ Signed Project log with 20 hours minimum

_____ _____ Journal log with 8 entries minimum

_____ _____ Minimum of 4 photographs with captions and descriptions

_____ _____ Signed Mentor Evaluation

_____ _____ Self-Evaluation

_____ _____ 2 copies of Thank you letter to Mentor AND Stamped addressed envelope

To the best of my ability, I believe my Senior Project portfolio to be complete.

________________________________________________ Date __________________________

Student Signature

19


This page is intentionally left blank.

20


Christian Liberty Academy Senior Project

Portfolio Scoring Rubric

Student Name: _______________________________________

CRITERIA Exemplary

4 (Adheres to all

guidelines,

everything Word

Processed)

Satisfactory

3 (Adheres to all

guidelines)

Below

Standard

2 (Messy, not

organized,

incomplete

documents)

Not evident

1 (Missing

documents)

Cover page: title, project

description, claim, color picture

or graphic included with student

name

Resume

Letter to Judges

Personal Statement

Senior Project Proposal

Parent Consent & Liability Form

Mentor Agreement Form

Research Paper with Works Cited

Research Paper Grading Rubric

Project log

Journal logs

Photographs or certificates etc. to

document 20 hour project

Mentor Evaluation form

Self-Evaluation

Thank you letter (1 copy in

portfolio, 1 copy in stamped

addressed envelope)

Total points: __________ / 60 Grade: _______

Portfolio passed: _____ Yes _____ No/Re-submit by ____________ (date)

Scored by: ___________________________________________ (Signature)

21


CHAPTER 6: THE PRESENTATION

The Final Presentation is the final phase of the Senior Project and will take place in March-April.

For the presentation portion of the project, you will be giving a 10-15 minute presentation to a panel

of judges who will include your Committee. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!

Purpose: Assess your speaking skills

Length: No less than 10 and no more than 15 minutes

Required attire: Business dress – you should treat this like you are interviewing for the most

important job you would ever want.

Presentation Requirements

● Greet the panel and begin your PowerPoint slide show (if applicable), or stand with your

display board.

● Describe what you have learned through this whole process.

● What was your claim?

● What did you prove/discover in your research paper? *** IMPORTANT***

● What was your physical project (20 hours spent on)?

● How were your research paper and physical project linked?

● What obstacles did you encounter – how did you overcome them?

● Was your project successful? Did it work? Did you complete it?

● What might you change if you did it again?

● What went well?

● Memorable moments?

● Be prepared to answer questions from the judges. (See Possible Final Presentation Judges

Questions)

● You must speak for 80% of your presentation. In other words, you cannot just show a video of your project the whole time.

What to include: Visual presentation of your learning. See examples below:

● The physical project (art work, portfolio, prototype, experimental design, DATA)

● Photographs of you actually doing your project

● Video of you completing your project (optional)

The judges will look for the following in your speech: 1. Why did you do this project?

2. What did you learn in your research? Is a “learning stretch” evident?

3. What did you produce or perform? 4. How did you grow and learn in the Senior Project experience?

5. How does your Research Paper relate to the Project?

6. Does your project demonstrate positive citizenry and/or successfully help provide a solution

to a community problem?

You have accomplished a great deal at this point. Let your confidence and pride shine through

when you speak!

22


SENIOR PROJECT PRESENTATION GUIDE

There are five components of the Presentation:

1. Introduction

2. Content/Organization

3. Delivery

4. Conclusion

5. Question and Answer Period

INTRODUCTION The introduction is the most important part of any speech or presentation. Listeners base their

opinions about a speech on their first impressions. Therefore, the quality of the introduction may

determine the effect of an entire speech. The introduction should also provide a road map of the

speech. Tell your audience your purpose and what direction your speech will take.

Examples of Introduction (Pick 1 or 2)

Topic: People who drive should not drink. (DO NOT USE THIS TOPIC FOR YOUR PROJECT)

Story: Tell a story of a teenage couple who were injured in a car crash because the

driver of their car had been drinking at a party.

Startling Statement: Over two-thirds of all teenage car accidents are due to drinking.

Quotation: “The road to the grave is paved with good intentions. A teenager’s good

intention to remain alert behind the wheel may be destroyed by that last drink

and drive.”

Question: Have you ever seen the wreckage of a head-on collision? The shattered

glass, broken bodies, twisted metal? If you have, you would never drink and

drive.

Humor: The only thing you get by giving coffee to a drunk is an alert drunk. Many

people feel that drinking coffee when leaving a drinking party will insure

they will be sober drivers. This is not the case.

Demonstration: Show five pictures of the results of a car collision where alcohol was

involved.

Personal Experience: This is painful for me to talk about, but it is something I feel most strongly

about. For the past six months my best friend has been in the hospital

because of an accident involving a drunken driver.

Statistics: 80% of all fatal accidents involve a drunken driver.

23


CONTENT/ORGANIZATION Clearly state the research question/claim and rationale for the project topic. Share why you chose

this topic. Summarize the research process. What resources were useful? Who was your mentor?

Where did you do your fieldwork? What did you do to complete your 20 hours? What were your

responsibilities? Emphasize how the research and project/performance connect. Make clear that a

learning stretch and genuine learning has taken place. Describe your final product/performance.

Show the actual product (brochure, display, video, experimental setup, data, etc.) or give your

performance.

DELIVERY The delivery contains verbal and nonverbal cues.

Verbal cues: Use of voice, language, rate/speed, volume, and pronunciation.

Nonverbal cues: Poise and professionalism, appropriate dress and appearance, and eye contact.

CONCLUSION Speech conclusions are usually brief, but like the introduction you should also put considerable

effort into the conclusion. Summarize your speech. Leave your audience with an overall great

impression of you and your project. (DO NOT SAY, “In Conclusion…”)

Examples of Conclusions: Topic: Colorization of Movies (DO NOT USE THIS TOPIC FOR YOUR PROJECT)

Summary: Therefore, the adding of color to movies originally black and white is an

attempt to make them more appealing to today’s audience that gave grown

used to color films.

Emotional appeal: Changing the historic value of black and white movies destroys the legacy of

the original from which today’s movies have been created.

Request for Action: Don’t rent colorized movies at our local video store. Tell them you oppose

colorization.

Quotation: As one scholar of film studies has stated, “Black and white films have an

important place in the history of the movie industry. We must preserve films

in their original state.”

Tying Conclusion Whether it is “The Great Train Robbery” or any other film

& Introduction: I mentioned, I hope you will take the time to see the films.

24


QUESTION AND ANSWER PERIOD At the conclusion of your speech, you will respond to questions from the panel of judges. The

question and answer period will provide you with two basic opportunities:

1. It challenges you to think on your feet by forming answers without preparation. However, a

prepared speaker will anticipate questions that an audience will raise.

2. It demonstrates how familiar you are with your topic.

Tips: ● Don’t answer with a short (yes/no) response. Instead put your answer into the context of the

question.

● Look at the person who asks you a question.

● Don’t be afraid to ask for a question to be restated or answer “I don’t know but that’s a good

question and I will find out the answer” when appropriate.

Possible Final Presentation Panel Judges Questions

1. What advice would you give next year’s students about the Senior Project experience?

2. In the future, how will you be able to use the skills, knowledge, or experience you gained by

working on this project? What have you learned about yourself?

3. What is your career or educational plans for next year?

4. How have you used the coursework at CLA to learn, grow, and prepare for the challenges

after high school?

5. What was the most difficult thing for you to do for this project?

6. What classes have you most enjoyed at CLA?

7. What class (es) have been the most challenging for you at CLA?

8. If you could go back and change one thing in your 4 years at CLA what would it be? Why?

9. Identify your strengths/and or areas to work on.

10. Why did you choose this topic?

11. What are some specific ways this project caused you to leave your comfort zone to go to

your courage zone?

12. Who has your work on this project impacted?

13. Has this experience helped you decide what to do in your future planning?

25


Christian Liberty Academy Presentation Rubric

Student: Time:

Criteria Exemplary

9-10 POINTS Proficient

7-8 POINTS Approaches 6 POINTS

Below Standard 5 POINTS

Explanation of Ideas & Information

Presents info, findings,

claims/arguments and

supporting evidence clearly,

concisely and logically.

Audience can easily follow the

line of reasoning and is engaged

the duration of the presentation.



supporting evidence

clearly, concisely and

logically. Audience can

easily follow the line of

reasoning.



supporting evidence clearly,

concisely and logically. Line

of reasoning is sometimes

hard to follow.

Does not present info, claims/

arguments, ideas clearly and

concisely, and logically. Lacks

supporting evidence; audience

cannot follow line of reasoning.

Organization Has a creative and effective

introduction and conclusion.

Organized time well. Paper &

Project are aligned.

Has a clear and interesting

introduction and

conclusion. Organized

time well. Paper & Project

align.

Has introduction and

conclusion, but is not clear or

interesting. Paper & Project

not clearly aligned.

Transitions not smooth.

Does not have an intro or

conclusion. Uses time poorly.

Parts of presentation may be too

long or too short. Paper & Project

NOT aligned.

Presentation Aides

Uses creative, engaging, and

well-produced audio/visual aides

and media to enhance

understanding of findings.

Uses well-produced

audio/visual aides and

media to enhance

understanding of findings.

Uses audio/visual aides and

media, but they sometime

distract from or do not add to

the presentation.

Does not use audio/visual aides or

media.

Application and integration of new

knowledge

Acquired

(Points x2)

3+ pieces of evidence of new

knowledge acquired was

presented and clearly related to

the project.

2 pieces of evidence of

new knowledge acquired

was presented and clearly

related to the project.

1 piece of evidence of new

knowledge acquired was

presented and related to the

project.

New knowledge was not presented

Appearance/ Dress Appearance is professional. Appearance attempts

professionalism.

Appearance is clean and neat

but not professional.

Too casual.

Voice

Speaks clearly with confidence.

Speaks loudly enough for

everyone to hear; changes tone

and engages the audience. Does

not use a single filler word (um,

so, like, etc.).

Speaks clearly; not too

quickly or slowly. Speaks

loudly enough for

everyone to hear; changes

tone and pace to maintain

interest. Rarely uses filler

words.

Speaks clearly most of the

time. Speaks loudly enough

for the audience to hear most

of the time; may speak in a

monotone; occasionally uses

filler words.

Mumbles or speaks too quickly or

slowly. Speaks too softly to be

understood. Frequently uses filler

words.

Body Language/

Eye Contact

Maintains eye contact with

audience the whole time; does

not look at notes or slides. Uses

natural gestures and movements

to enhance presentation. Looks

poised and confident.

Keeps eye contact with

audience most of the time;

only glances at notes or

slides. Uses natural

gestures and movements.

Looks poised and

confident.

Makes infrequent eye contact;

reads notes or slides a lot of

the time. Uses a few gestures

or movements but they look

natural. Only a little

fidgeting.

Does not look at audience; reads

off of note cards or slides. Fidgets,

slouches or appears nervous.

Time Engaging the entire 10-15

minutes

Presented within 10-15

minutes

NA Presentation was less than 10

minutes

Response to

Question & Answer

Confidently answered the

questions. Answers extended

beyond the question (s).

Answers questions clearly

and completely. Seeks

clarification.

Answers audience questions.

Not always clearly or

completely.

Does not address audience

questions (goes off topic or

misunderstands without seeking

clarification.

26


PRESENTATION DETAILS TO REMEMBER

1. Time Presentation will take place in March. Be Punctual. Arrive 20 minutes

before your assigned time.

2. Dress Dress like you would for an interview. Dress professionally. No hats, flip

flops, or shorts.

3. Attitude Project an enthusiastic & positive attitude. Smile and greet panel members.

Impress the panel that you are a learner, thinker, planner, productive citizen

ready to embrace college, military, or work world.

4. Visual Students must have either a PowerPoint/Prezzi/Google Slides/Display Board

(etc.) presentation to use as a visual. Visuals should be professional and

creative. Students are responsible for checking equipment in assigned room

and if technology/video format works for the Presentation.

5. Practice Practice, practice, practice and then practice again.

6. Panel At least 3 staff members and/or community members will serve on the Final

Presentation Panel as judges.

7. Audience Juniors may attend the symposium as an audience member throughout your

presentation. Other spectators by special permission.

8. Questions Each speech will be followed by a 2-5 minute question and answer session.

9. Evaluation Each panel member will provide feedback based on grading criteria found in

the rubric.

10. Do over A make-up presentation time is scheduled for students who either did not

pass the March Presentation session or have a family emergency that makes

it necessary to reschedule.

27


SENIOR PROJECT EQUIPMENT REQUEST FORM

All students must turn in this form in order to receive a presentation time slot. *** Please note that CLA uses PC connections. Those with Macs must provide their own adapter(s).

DUE to Mrs. Mason by January 27, 2017.

***Save your presentation slides on a jump-drive in case internet is down

Student Name _______________________________________

Project Title: ________________________________________

English Teacher: _____________________________________

Equipment Needed (Check all that apply)

_____ TV

_____ Projector

_____ Speakers

_____ Computer

_____ Internet

_____ DVD Player

_____ Extra table

_____ CD Player

_____ Piano

_____ Other: ____________________________________________

_____ Bringing own laptop & adapter for Projector if using MAC

_____ My presentation is longer than 10 minutes. It's ______ mins.

Do you need a special room (i.e. Ag room, Band room, Music room, large open area, etc.)

Place/Explain:

28


CHRISTIAN LIBERTY ACADEMY

APPENDIX A: Senior Project Forms

You may also access this handbook on line and print forms as needed at https://lmasoncla.wordpress.com/.

On the following pages, you will find each form that you will need. Please contact Mrs. Mason

([email protected]) if you have difficulties accessing the forms.

Here’s a list of what you’ll find in this Appendix:

1. Senior Project Proposal/Approval Form

2. Commitment Poster/Portfolio Cover

3. Parent/Guardian Consent & Liability Release Form

4. Mentor Information & Agreement Form

5. Project Log

6. Journal Log

7. Mentor Evaluation Form

8. Self-Evaluation Questionnaire

9. Thank you Letter to Mentor Requirements & Template

10. Sample Thank you Letter to Mentor and Envelope Format

11. Letter to Judges Guidelines and Template

12. Sample Letter to Judges

13. Resume Template (Update your Resume from Guidance)

29


SENIOR PROJECT PROPOSAL/APPROVAL FORM

Student Name (please print) ________________________________ Date __________________________

Please describe your project and respond to the following questions in as much detail as possible in order to help the

Project Approval Committee understand what you intend to do. All questions must be completed thoroughly to gain

approval for your project. Note: Your Paper will have to be related to your Project and a mentor will have to sign

forms that you have completed the required hours.

1. Provide a short, descriptive title of your 20 hour project.

2. Describe what you are proposing to do for your project and describe your final product, service or process. (Choose

one of the project categories.)

3. Describe what you already know about this project topic?

4. Learning Stretch: Describe what you will learn from doing this project or the potential benefits for others.

5. Reason: Explain the reason(s) you selected your project topic.

30


6. Timeline: When will you start your project? Which days will you work on your project? When will you complete

your project?

7. When and where will you work on your project?

8. Budget: How much will this project cost and what will be the source of your funding?

9. Mentor/Potential Mentors: Who can you contact to be your mentor?

10. What is this person’s expertise in this field?

31


11. What steps will you have to take before you begin?

12. What are some potential risks or challenges (i.e. finding a mentor, transportation, money, etc.?)

13. How will you prove the completion of your project to your Senior Project committee?

32


After satisfactorily obtaining the signature of the Senior Project Coordinator, I hereby agree to

complete the above stated project in partial fulfillment of my Senior Project requirement. I

understand that I will not be allowed to change my topic after September 7, 2017. I understand that

I must also obtain my parent/guardian’s signature on the proper form before this agreement is valid.

Student Name (print)__________________________________________________

Student Signature__________________________________________ Date __________________

Project Approved ___________ Project changes required_____________

Explanation for changes:

__________________________________ _____________________________________

Lisa Mason Senior Project Coordinator Mrs. Oertel, English Teacher

33


Senior Project Commitment Poster – Portfolio Cover

Design a Commitment Poster that represents commitment to your Senior Project. The posters will

be used as your Senior Project Portfolio Cover and may be displayed on campus.

Objective: Produce a high quality poster showcasing your research topic and project. Your poster

should grab the attention of the viewer and tell your classmates, staff, and underclassmen what your

project is all about. Your poster may be displayed for the whole school to see.

DUE DATE: _________________________________________________

Criteria:

● Paper size: 8 ½’ x 11”

● Senior Project Title

● Research Paper “argument” or “claim”

● Description of your 20 hour project (Begin sentence with a verb)

● Your name on the front of the poster

● A visual representation that symbolizes your project (photo, drawn…)

● Interesting, creative, neat and professional looking

● Print one copy for your Portfolio Cover (Colored IF possible)

● Share a copy with SP Coordinator @ [email protected] through Google Docs

Example:

THEATRE

Claim: Participation in theatre arts leads to

improved self-confidence and consistently better

attendance in school or at work.

Project: Direct and produce a play through the MHS

Drama club.

By: Aloha Mahalo

mailto:[email protected]

34


Senior Project Parent / Guardian

Consent & Liability Release Form

To the Parents / Guardians of __________________________________________________:

Your son / daughter is about to embark upon an exciting educational journey! The Senior Project

will provide enormous benefits for your child both now and in the future. Successful completion of

the Senior Project is a valuable tool in determining your child’s mastery of the CLA general

learner outcomes.

Please take some time to discuss the project with your child and initial each of the items below

indicating that you have read, understood and approve of each.

____ I approve of my child’s selected research paper topic.

____ I approve of my child’s selected project and understand that the product must relate to the

paper.

____ I acknowledge that the mentor selected is at least 21 years old

____ I understand that all transportation for SP is the responsibility of the student or parent.

____ I understand that all costs and risks associated with the project are the responsibility of the

student or parent.

____ I understand that the final project must be physically at school the day of the Senior Project

presentation. If the product is a service or activity, it must be documented by photos or a video.

____ I understand that integrity and honesty are just as important as all other components of the

Senior Project. Any suspicion that my child has plagiarized or has been dishonest in any aspect of

the Senior Project process may result in a referral to the school’s Senior Project Committee,

administration or other appropriate authority.

____ I fully understand that my student needs to pass the research paper, the project, the

presentation, and the portfolio to pass English which is a graduation requirement.

I have read and understand that the school, and their agents, are not responsible for all potential

risks resulting from the Senior Project. Accordingly, I release Christian Liberty Academy from all

claims arising from any financial obligation incurred, or damage, injury or accident suffered while

my child participates in the project chosen.

Parent / Guardian’s Name (Print) _______________________________________

Parent / Guardian’s Signature ______________________________________Date ___________

Parent Phone: (Home or Work) ______________________ (Cell)________________________

35


MENTOR INFORMATION & AGREEMENT FORM Student Name__________________________________________________________

Mentor Name __________________________________________________________

Place of Business:_______________________________________________________

Address:_______________________________________________________________

Telephone Numbers: Office: __________________ Cell: ________________________

Email:____________________________________________________

Best time(s) to be contacted: _______________________________________________

Explain your expertise in this field:

For Mentor to Complete and Sign

I agree to serve as a Senior Project Mentor to this student. I will advise and assist with his/her Senior Project

plans over the course of the 2017-2018 school year. I understand that I will be a resource and consultant for

the student and will be asked to verify the student’s progress and hours spent. I also understand that Senior

Project is the sole responsibility of the student and that I am not to complete the project for the student. I

understand that our meetings could take place off campus. Mentor Signature _________________________________________ Date __________

Parent Approval of Mentor

I am aware that this individual will be serving as a Senior Project mentor for my child, and give my permission

for them to meet together for the required minimum hours. I understand that these meetings may take place

off campus. I agree to release Christian Liberty Academy,its employees, the mentor, their employer and/or

affiliated organization or agency from all claims arising from any and all injuries, damages, or accidents which

may occur while my son/daughter participates in the project that he/she has chosen. Parent/Guardian Printed Name _______________________________ Date ________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature __________________________________ Date _________________________

NOTE: Mentor, please make a copy of this document for your records.

36



Project Log

Student Name: ________________________________________

In order to verify hours please use this sheet to log your hours of work for your project and have

your mentor sign.

Instructions: In the appropriate column

● record the date,

● time arrived or began working on your project,

● time left or finished working on your project,

● total time spent for that session,

● have your mentor sign face to face meetings.

● (Please make copies as needed.)

Mentor’s Name (print): ______________________________________________

Project Site: ______________________________________________

Date Time

arrived/started

Time

left/completed

Total Time

of session

Mentor’s Signature

TOTAL HOURS: ____________ (Minimum 20 hours)

37



Journal Log

This journal will be used by the student and the mentor to mark the progress in completion of the

Senior Project. It will become part of the final Portfolio that is submitted to the Senior Board at the

time of the Presentation. It will demonstrate the timely manner of the student’s work over several

months’ duration in order to satisfactorily complete the project. Detailed entries help track work

and effort and are important in the evaluation of the project. This reflects time management skills

developed by the student.

All students are expected to keep a Journal Log. An entry should be made for each occasion work

is done on the project. Entries can describe tasks attempted, success or failure in accomplishing

tasks, reactions to progress, and plans for next action. Date must be included in each entry.

SAMPLE

DATE REFLECTION What did you do? What was difficult for you? What did you learn?

9/20/17 Today I met with my mentor and I interviewed him about his job. His duties

include…. The pay scale for his job…, education or training needed for the job…,

job trend…, qualifications…. I also got a tour of his job site and met with a lot of

people. I really feel excited about meeting with my mentor and getting first-hand

experience…

10/07/17 Today I went to work with my mentor. He owns …. Restaurant. I learned how to

chop onions. It was hard for me and I was scared because the knife was so big. I

thought I was going to cut of my finger tip, but I didn’t. As I practice I will be able

to cut the onions and other vegetables really fast.

10/10/17 Today I observed and co-taught a lesson with my mentor to a little boy named

Mark. He is working on learning to read music.

38



Journal Log

In order to help document your experience prior to your self-reflection and oral presentation, please use this

journal to record what you did. Instructions: In the left column record the date you worked on your project. In the right column describe what you did for that day. (Job tasks, duties, phone calls, drafting, created,

constructed something, etc.) Write down new things you learned as well as challenges you faced. How did

you overcome those challenges? Or how could you overcome those challenges if given another chance?

What did you learn for that day? Do you have any concerns? A minimum of 8 entries are required for your

Portfolio. (Please make copies as needed.)

Date Reflections/ Concerns/ Summary of activities

39



Journal Log In order to help document your experience prior to your self-reflection and oral presentation, please use this

journal to record what you did. Instructions: In the left column record the date you worked on your project. In the right column describe what you did for that day. (Job tasks, duties, phone calls, drafting, created,

constructed something, etc.) Write down new things you learned as well as challenges you faced. How did

you overcome those challenges? Or how could you overcome those challenges if given another chance?

What did you learn for that day? Do you have any concerns? A minimum of 8 entries are required for your

Portfolio. (Please make copies as needed.)

Date Reflections/ Concerns/ Summary of activities

40


MENTOR EVALUATION FORM

Student’s Name (first, last) ____________________________________Date__________

Mentor Name____________________________________________________________

Mentor’s Signature ________________________________________________________

Thank you for supporting our students in their Senior Project. Without you, we could not prepare

our students for their Post High School success. Please complete this evaluation form by placing a

mark (X) to the appropriate rating of the skills/abilities of the student you mentored. You may give

this form to the student or return to Lisa Mason, Christian Liberty Academy, 16-675 Milo St.

Kea’au, HI, 96749, by ______________________.

Skills/Abilities

● General Learner Outcomes

Excellent Above

Average Average Below

Standard

General Attitude, able to solve problems/conflicts

● Complex thinker

Courteous to others

● Community Contributor

Punctuality (on time)

● Quality Producer

Listens to & follows instruction, asked

appropriate questions

● Effective Communicator

Shows responsibility, professional conduct

● Self-directed Learner

Shows commitment, demonstrated interest in the

experience


Able to work independently

● Self-directed Learner

Able to work with mentor as well as with others

● Community Contributor

Overall quality of work, student seemed to

benefit from the experience


Please list any suggestions/comments regarding your student mentee’s performance?

Please list any suggestions for improving the CLA Mentor program for the Senior Project?

41


Student Self-Evaluation

Student: ___________________________________ Grad Month / Yr.: ________________

Project Title: ______________________________________________________

Complete this assignment after your research paper and project have been completed and before

your presentation.

Select 3 of the following items and respond on one typed page with one paragraph per item.

(Double Space)

1. If you were to do your Senior Project over, what would you change and why?

2. Who or what helped you the most throughout your Senior Project? Explain how.

3. What was the most difficult aspect of your Senior Project and how did you overcome it?

4. What tip or advice would you give someone who is preparing for Senior Project next year?

Why?

5. What aspect(s) of your Senior Project makes you feel most satisfied or proud?

6. How did you manage your time?

7. What did you learn about yourself in doing this project?

8. Why did you choose this topic/project?

42


Thank you Letter to your Mentor

● You will write a Thank-You letter to your Mentor

● Follow the format

● Use “Arial”

● Font size should be size 12

● Place letter in a stamped, addressed envelope and place it in the right pocket of your portfolio. Don’t

seal the envelope. The SP Committee will mail it.

● Follow the Envelope format (p 41)

Template

Your Street Address City, ST, Zip Code

Date (Double Space) Dear (Mentor’s Name): (Double Space) (Paragraph #1) Mention what you are thanking the person for. Express your thanks simply and

directly. Be sure to thank the individual for their time and patience. (Double Space) (Paragraph #2) Write two lines or more to say specifically what you appreciate about the person: a

specific quality, feature or action would be appropriate. Just make sure you are honest in your comments. (Double Space) (Paragraph #3) Finally, you should end note with a general statement that expresses to the mentor

how grateful you are for their help. (Double Space) Sincerely, Your Signature (4 spaces) Your Name typed

43


Sample Letter to Mentor

123 Hawaii Street

Hilo, HI 96720

January 10, 2018

Dear Mrs. Mahalo,

Working towards the completion of my senior project has been both a challenging but rewarding

experience. At this time I wish to use this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to you for being my

mentor this year. Thank you for making time out of your busy schedule to provide assistance, direction and

encouragement to me in the development of my senior project.

Throughout the duration of the project, there have been times when I felt frustrated or just needed

that extra push. It was encouraging to know that you were always willing to listen and provided good advice

when I needed it. Your patience in teaching me to cook 3 different cultural dishes not only pleased me, but

impressed my friends and family too.

I consider you an inspiring and dedicated person who has proven that you are willing to go the extra

mile for any student who has a need. Your willingness has made a great impact on my life. On behalf of my

parents and myself, I express to you my most deeply appreciative thanks.

Sincerely,

(Sign your name)

Big Island Girl

44


LETTER TO JUDGES GUIDELINES & TEMPLATE Purpose:

1. Introduce yourself to your senior project Board judges.

2. Overview of senior project and why you selected this particular focus.

3. Provide a reflection of your senior project journey (topic selection, research, writing process,

project hours, etc.)

4. Share insights about how your senior project experience relates to your future (content

knowledge, skills, etc.)

5. Thank the judges for their time.

Formatting: 1. Use “Arial” 10 point font

2. Your top and bottom margins should look equal on the page

3. Must be typed

4. Your letter should fit on one page

5. Use block style (do not indent)

6. Single space typing, but double space between paragraphs

7. Read carefully, and fix all problems before printing

8. Sign your letter

9. See Template below ************************************************************************************************

Your Address Your City, State, Zip Code Date Judges, Senior Project CLA 16-675 Milo St. Kea’au, HI 96749

Dear Judges: Paragraph 1: Discuss your personal interests and background as they relate to your Senior Project. Tell the judges

something about your accomplishments and challenges during your high school years. Help them get to know you. Paragraph 2: Explain why you chose your particular research topic and the ultimate product you spent time preparing.

Discuss the easiest and hardest parts of Senior Project for you. Tell about the assistance you got from your mentor and

others. Paragraph 3: Tell the judges what you learned from doing Senior Project. What skills did you gain from doing it?

What lessons (positive and negative) did you learn? What would you advise future students as they approach their

Senior Project year? Paragraph 4: Thank the judges for taking the time to look at your portfolio and to hear your presentation. Sincerely, Your signature

Type your name

45


Sample Letter to Judges

123 Hawaii Street Hilo, HI 96720 January 10, 2018

Judges, Senior Project CLA 16-675 Milo St. Kea’au, HI 96749

Dear Judges:

Hello, my name is Lei Aloha. I have lived on Big Island all my life. I am a curious and quiet person. My passions are

music and traveling. I play the flute, the violin, and piano. I enjoy world cultures and learning other languages; I love

eating foods from different countries. I have many goals in life, but my primary goal is to be a diplomat while I enjoy

my hobbies.

I chose Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) as my topic because I have a sibling who was diagnosed with the disorder at

age 7. I see how he struggles with learning and wanted to know more about how I, and others, can help him. I have

learned through visiting and interviewing classroom teachers the various strategies used to assist children with ADD. I

also learned from my mentor’s experience the importance of keeping current with ever changing research of ADD. The

hardest part of the Project was deciding what my Product would be. At first I did not know what to do, but ideas began

to flourish with the help of my mentor and my English teacher.

I do not believe anything worth learning is easy, but I also do not believe things are extremely complicated or

impossible to accomplish. I put great effort and determination in everything I do. Through this Project I have acquired

different skills such as time management and organization. I have learned to speak up, and this has helped me

overcome my shyness.

Thank you for taking the time to go over my portfolio. I hope you enjoy my presentation.

Sincerely,

Lei Aloha

Lei Aloha

46


Resume Template

YOUR NAME

Street Address City, State Zip Code (808)phone number

email address

OBJECTIVE To obtain a position as a Specific Job Title OR Scholarship award

EDUCATION

WORK EXPERIENCE (If any)

●

VOLUNTEER WORK (If any)

●

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES (Clubs, Sports, Church groups)

●

AWARDS / HONORS (ex: If captain of a team or Officer of a club)

●

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

●

●

●

REFERENCES (Examples of who you could list) Full name of (teacher) Position Title (808) 727-4000

Full name of (coach) Sport Team Coach (808) 877-0000

Full name of (pastor) Church Name (808) 875-0000

Documents

Senior Project Handbook 2016-2018 - · PDF file2 This handbook was adapted for CLA from the Maui High School Senior Project Guide. CHAPTER 1: INTRO TO SENIOR PROJECT What is Senior