Students in all four grades at Wayland conduct guided, independent research into a subject that captures their interest. At the end of the school year, that research culminates in a polished work by each student.
The capstone project helps students develop the research and writing skills they’ll need in college and creates another opportunity for authentic, student-driven learning.
Each student works with a faculty adviser who oversees their research and writing over the course of the year. Students have explored capstone topics in a wide range of areas, including literature, biology, athletics, the law, and topics such as the effect of meditation and mindfulness on focus and study skills; women in STEM fields; and Wisconsin’s drunk driving laws.
From year to year, students can focus on the same subject from different vantage points and develop a deep understanding of their topic through multiple years of research and analysis.