Senior Thesis: The Capstone Of A PCA Education
It’s April at PCA and that means the flowers are blooming, spring has sprung, and most importantly the Seniors are preparing for their Senior Thesis Presentations.
As part of their graduation requirement, seniors take a class called Senior Thesis. “These presentations and papers help them prepare for college in a variety of ways,” said Senior Thesis teacher Kelly Cooper. “Overall, the projects are designed to mimic a bachelor's or master's thesis writing process and teach students how to research in a scholarly manner, how to work with a mentor, or chair, and how to defend their position against a panel of experts.”
There are two Senior Thesis classes, the College Preparatory Class where students choose topics that are expository or argumentative in nature and write a 8-12 page paper on the topic before turning it into a 10-15 minute presentation. The Honors Class chooses an argumentative topic on which they write a 15-20 page paper and give a 15-30 minute presentation.
When asked what they took away from this process, Senior David Swift said, “I have learned how to email my mentor professionally and set up meetings which will help me in college when I need to meet with teachers.”
Emma Howard also found the process to be rewarding, “I was encouraged to think critically about a topic I found enticing in order to keep my interest throughout the school year and further on, requiring me to acknowledge and understand more than one side of an argument."
“I am extremely proud of the work many of these students have put into the presentations,” Ms. Cooper said, “In a year full of obstacles, many of these seniors have worked diligently to overcome them and to create presentations that are not only well thought through and developed but that also bring glory and honor to God. I encourage all who can to come to support them as they present -- and to ask questions of them in their defense!”
All are welcome to come and view the senior’s presentations, however we ask that you please wear a mask. The presentations will take place in the Annex and there is limited seating.
Good luck, seniors!
