1

SENIOR PROJECT
GUIDELINES
AND REQUIREMENTS
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Table of Contents
Overview ....................................................................................................................................... 3
Letter to the Parents ..................................................................................................................... 4
Parent or Guardian release ........................................................................................................... 5
Getting Started.............................................................................................................................. 6
The Project – Examples ................................................................................................................ 7

Responsibilities of the Student ...................................................................................................... 8

Responsibilities of the Parent ........................................................................................................ 9
Responsibilities of the Advisor/Junior & Senior English Teachers ................................................. 10
Responsibilities of the Administration and Counselors .................................................................. 11

Proposal (Completed Junior Year)

Project Proposal Overview ........................................................................................................... 12
Junior Board Proposal .................................................................................................................. 13
Cost Analysis/Time Analysis ......................................................................................................... 14
Junior Project Proposal ................................................................................................................. 15
Proposal Rubric ............................................................................................................................ 16
Project Commitment Poster .......................................................................................................... 17
Sample of Proposal....................................................................................................................... 18

Mentors
Community Mentor........................................................................................................................ 19
Mentor Ideas ................................................................................................................................. 20
Mentor Letter ................................................................................................................................ 21
Mentor and Student Contract ........................................................................................................ 22
Mentor Midterm Report ................................................................................................................. 23
Mentor Evaluation ......................................................................................................................... 24-25

Project Journal .............................................................................................................................. 26

Sample Journal ............................................................................................................................. 27

Research Paper
Rubric ........................................................................................................................................... 28

Portfolio Grading Rubric ................................................................................................................ 29

Open House Requirements........................................................................................................... 30

Open House Rubric ...................................................................................................................... 31

Presentation Rubric ...................................................................................................................... 32

Outline .......................................................................................................................................... 33

Portfolio Requirements.................................................................................................................. 34
Self Evaluation .............................................................................................................................. 35
Senior Project Final Checklist ....................................................................................................... 36
Senior Project Timeline ................................................................................................................. 37
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Overview
The Senior Project is designed to be the culmination of each student’s academic experience at
Twin Falls School District (TFSD). It is a genuine opportunity for students to merge their various
interests, passions, and curiosities with the community, the modern workplace and their academic
lives as seniors of TFSD. their academic lives at school. Similarly, the project is a vehicle for
seniors to demonstrate autonomy, complexity, and awareness. An education at TFSD has many
facets, from the basic facts of subject matter, to critical thinking, problem solving, and attaining
lifelong learning skills. The Senior Project is a measurement of those lifelong skills that are
important to attaining a quality life and a desire for continued learning.

The Four Main Components of the Senior Project

1. Organization and Writing (Project Proposal)

2. Reading and Research (Research Paper)
3. Use and Application of Technical Skills (Project)
4. Oral Presentation/Portfolio (Presentation/Portfolio)

The Project Proposal

Each student will develop a project proposal during the 4th quarter of the junior year in advisory.
The proposal will include an overview of the project and identify measurable goals. The proposal
will identify the area of focus and the purpose of the project and illustrate how the project
connects to his/her hobby, community service, and/or workforce. The student must be able to
connect his/her proposal to two of these areas.

The Research Paper

Each project will require a research paper that proves a specific thesis. The paper will be written
in the MLA format and require cited sources from research. This will be completed senior year.

The Project

The project is a creation based on choosing, designing, and developing a product, project, or
service related to the student’s interest while connecting it to the community or to the workforce.

The Oral Presentation/Portfolio

A portfolio will be compiled that includes all paperwork completed while working on the Senior
Project. The student will provide a public presentation and/or demonstration of their product,
project, or service. The administration/counselors will design the method by which the
presentation is delivered and is evaluated.
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Dear Parents/Guardians of TFSD Seniors:
Twin Falls School District is excited to announce that the seniors of the graduating class of
2013 will be embarking upon a new educational experience. They will be required to complete a
Senior Project. This is an opportunity for students to use the skills they have acquired throughout
their educational careers. Senior Projects are required by the State of Idaho, and Twin Falls
School District is moving forward with this extraordinary learning experience.

Students will not be alone in their quest to complete a Senior Project. Parents, teachers,
administrators, counselors, and community mentors will help them move along and learn more
about their area of interest. They will be supported by advisory teachers, as well as teachers of all
disciplines. Advisors, counselors and administrators will help students decide upon community
mentors. This will be an amazing opportunity for students to connect with the public and find the
relevance of their education.

As outlined in the Overview, the Twin Falls School District Senior Project has four
components: a proposal, a research paper, a physical product, and a presentation/portfolio.

The first component of the project is the proposal. By the time students reach their junior
year of high school, they will have had the opportunity to think about what they want to focus on
for their project. They will be developing a proposal throughout their junior year that will be due at
the end of that year. This will give the students (and parents) the summer before their senior year
to make connections, begin research, develop/implement a plan for their projects.

The second component, the research paper, will be part of the English 12 curriculum.
Since research is a state standard at this level, students will use English 12 as a vehicle in which
to create a well-conceived, well-researched, and well-written document. While doing the
research paper, students will keep a journal. In the journal, students will log the actions they take
to complete their project. They will document interviews, cite sources, and relate successes, as
well as failures, during the process of project completion. The journal is a very important part of
the project, as it maps out how the project was created.

The product component of the project will require the student to create some sort of visual
aid, graphic, chart, model, or other physical representation of their work. This physical project will
be the center of the student’s presentation to be shown at the community open house, which is
the final phase of the Senior Project.

During the presentation, students will explain the learning that occurred in completing the
project. The student will give an 8 – 15 minute presentation to a panel of judges. They will
address what they proved in their research paper, explain their physical project, discuss
obstacles encountered, and give details about what they learned. Students’ ability to speak
clearly and articulately will be assessed. They will wear business clothes and present themselves
in a mature and knowledgeable manner.

The Senior Project enhances your student’s education in a number of positive ways. We
hope, as a faculty and administration, that you will support your student in this endeavor so
success will be easily achieved.

Sincerely

TFSD Faculty and Administration

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TO THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN

As a parent/guardian of a student at Twin Falls School District, I am aware that my

son/daughter must pass all four phases of the Senior Project to graduate:

Proposal, Research Paper, Project, and Board Presentation

I/We fully understand that the Senior Project selection decision is made independently of
the staff and administration of the high school, but is subject to Junior Board Committee approval.
It is assumed that costs of related activities will be minimal; however, the decision concerning
expenditures is up to the student and his/her parent/guardian. All costs of the project will be
assumed by the student/parent.

It is assumed that the Senior Project will be of an educational nature and will not involve unusual
risk. If the Senior Project Coordinators feel that there is unwarranted risk, parents will be notified
before approval is given and may be asked to assume liability. I/We understand that if my/our
student does not complete any portion of the Senior Project he/she will not participate in
graduation ceremonies until completion. If students cannot make these deadlines due to
extenuating circumstances, he/she may appeal the deadlines to the high school principal prior to
the due dates. The diploma will be held until successful completion of the Senior Project.

Finally, both my daughter/son and I understand that falsifying or plagiarizing any aspect
of the Research Paper or Project will result in failure of the Senior Research Project.

Please sign the following:

Parent/Guardian Signature_________________________________________________

Parent’s e-mail address____________________________________________________

Student Signature________________________________________________________

Student’s e-mail address___________________________________________________

Committee Approval_________________________________ Date:_______________

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Getting Started
How to Select a Topic
Topic of research for a Senior Project may come in a variety of forms. The student may build,
develop, grow, conduct an experiment, then research and write about this topic of interest. The
student must also connect his/her topic of interest to at least two of the following: Academic,
Community Service, or Career. This will help insure that student interest can be connected not
only to the academic, but also to the community in which they live. It is advised that the student
use as many methods of research as possible in completing the project. Using a variety of
methods will demonstrate to the committee that he/she has attained knowledge in several areas
in order to complete the Senior Project.

Senior Project Support

The Senior Project Support may be comprised of a TFSD advisor, administrator, counselor, or
classroom teacher, parent(s)/guardian(s) and at least one community mentor.

Expectations
Expectations are very high for all students in completion of the Senior Project. Excellence and
high quality projects are a must. When projects are well done and well thought out, students will
find relevance in their work, and will be pleased and satisfied with the outcomes of their research;
it will be a capstone to their educational experience.
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The Project -- Examples

The Senior Project could be any of the following examples:

• A physical product: painting and selling your work, modeling for an agency, fashioning designs,
creating computer program(s), rebuilding engines, constructing cabinets.

• A written product: short story, book of poetry, novelette, published articles, periodical,
photographs

• A performance: dance or music recital, drama production, music video, fashion show, a formal
speech in front of a large audience

• A teaching or leadership experience: teach junior high health classes about teen alcoholism,
teach about knights and armor to a middle school class, coach a little league team, or organize
and hold a sports camp

• A physical experience: learn to scuba dive, organize/run a marathon, start a fitness program
and train others, earn a brown belt in karate while training another to a white

• A career-related project: ―shadow‖ a police officer, view medical procedures, interview people in
the airline field and prepare a manuscript on the subject

• A technology project: develop a home page on the World Wide Web, computer generated
images or movies, photography and photo editing for an organized event
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Responsibilities
Responsibilities of Student

1. Review this document with your advisor and parent/guardian and return a signed copy by
the deadline to your teacher for placement in your portfolio.

2. Regularly update materials in your portfolio.

3. Complete all assigned project components on or before deadlines.

4. Identify a Senior Project topic.

5. Complete and receive approval of a Senior Project Proposal.

6. Write a research paper on your topic.

7. Successfully complete your senior project by the deadline.

8. Present the completed senior project in accordance with the project presentation
requirements.

9. Confer with the teacher, mentor, and or parent as needed on all steps of all components of
the Senior Project.

10. Write thank you notes or letters to each person who assisted with the senior project.

Statement of participation: I have reviewed this document with my advisor and parent(s).
I understand my role and my responsibilities for the Senior Project.

Student Name: _________________________________ Date ______________

Signature ________________________________

Parent Signature: _____________________________ Date ________________

Teacher: ___________________________________ Date received signed form: _______

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Responsibilities of Parent

1. Review and sign the Responsibilities of Student document with your child.

2. Review, sign and return this document to your students’ Senior Project advisory teacher.

3. Support the efforts of your child during the Senior Project completion process.

4. Support the efforts and process of Twin Falls School District advisors and district
personnel during the Senior Project process.

5. Attend the final presentation of your students’ senior project at the closing of the senior
year.

6. Complete and return all parent forms associated with the Senior Project.

Statement of participation: I have reviewed this document with my advisor and parent(s). I
understand my role and my responsibilities for the Senior Project.

Student Name: ________________________________ Date ________________

Signature: _________________________________

Parent Signature _____________________________

Teacher: ___________________________________ Date received signed form: ______

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Responsibilities of Advisory Teacher

1. Review responsibilities of all participants with student.

2. Communicate deadlines, criteria and evaluation methods to each student.

3. Maintain a portfolio with a copy of the signed student responsibility sheet and all related
forms and documentation.

4. Guide the student through all components of the project.

5. Seek support and assistance as needed from administration and/or related academic
teachers.

6. Collect and evaluate advisor related components of the Senior Project

7. In the review process, provide an opportunity for suggested revisions. Enlist the
assistance of other coordinating teachers or academic teachers as needed.

8. Provide opportunities for the student to work on the project.

9. Provide opportunities for the student to practice the necessary skills for the project and
presentation.

10. Advise the student through the planning phases according to an established timeline and
due dates.

11. Submit the graduation eligibility form to the district upon request to identify whether the
student qualifies for graduation.

Responsibilities of the Junior/Senior English Teachers

As per the TFSD Research Continuum:

The Junior English teacher will assist the student in creating a viable thesis statement for the
project to be presented to the Junior Board Proposal Committee

The Senior English teacher will assist the student in expanding upon their thesis statement to
research and produce their senior project paper
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Responsibilities of the Administration and Counselors

1. Notify students and parents that the successful completion of a Senior Project is a
graduation requirement.

2. Arrange for the demonstration, display, distribution, or presentation of the completed

project including hosting the Open House.

3. Provide resources necessary to complete district approved Senior Projects.

4. Allow calendar scheduling to include time for the presentation or judging of Senior
Projects, according to teacher needs.

5. Offer media and academic support for research strategies, research material and the
associated technological support.
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Name: ________________________________ Advisory Teacher: ____________________

PROJECT PROPOSAL OVERVIEW

1. Physical Project Description: What is the ―hands-on‖ part of your Graduation (Senior)
Project, and how will you document your project time for judges (other than a project
journal)?

2. Description of the Research Paper: What do you want to know about the area of interest
you will research while looking for information that will help you prove your thesis?

3. Relationship between Project and Paper: How are they tied together? Remember, the
paper is NOT ABOUT the project, but related to it. How will they support each other?

4. How will this Graduation (Senior) Project (Paper and Physical Project) extend your
learning beyond your present experience and knowledge? This is to say, How will there
be a learning stretch – what new things will you learn?

5. What background experience do you already have in the area to be studied?

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Name: __________________________________ Advisory Teacher: ____________________

TWIN FALLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

JUNIOR BOARD PROPOSAL

THE RESEARCH PAPER

Tentative Thesis Statement: (type your thesis statement here)
(I will prove to the reader that…)
Potential topics to be searched to prove tentative thesis statement: (type your topics here)

Final Thesis Statement (this will be filled out AFTER research has been completed in Senior
English):

THE PROJECT (Physical or Experience)

Project Proposal: (at least 3-5 sentences on what you will be physically doing and learning)

The project must incorporate two of the following criteria to be accepted by the Senior Project
Committee:
1. Academic
2. Community Service
3. Career

I understand that the finished project will reflect equal attention to two chosen criteria above. My
project will use the following two project selection criteria: __________________________ and
______________________________.

I intend to satisfy, in my project, these two criteria by (explanation here – be SPECIFIC)

*Notation: Submit this form to the Junior Board along with the Cost & Time Analysis
worksheet and parent and mentor signature sheets.
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THE COST ANALYSIS
Each proposal will contain a cost analysis done by the students. All materials, advertising, prizes,
etc. needed should be examined, prices researched, and thoughtful assessment given regarding
how these costs will be covered before the project begins. Be realistic. If the cost will be nothing,
that needs to be included as well.
MATERIALS COST
Ex: Gas $50.00

TOTAL COST: ___________________________________________

Parent Signature:___________________________________________

THE TIME ANALYSIS

A time analysis must be done for your project. This should contain consideration of each part of
the project: the time estimated to complete each phase of the project as well as the entire project.

Estimated Start Date:

Number of Months/Weeks to
Completion:

Estimated Hours per Week:

Estimated Completion Date:

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PROJECT
Junior Project Proposal
Student Name: ____________________________________________________________

Project Title:______________________________________________________________

Overview
Description of Project: (Briefly state what you will do: create, design,
investigate, build, learn, produce, develop, etc.)

Thesis Statement:

Significance of Project: (How does it connect to your Academic, Community

Service, or Career? Must connect to at least two of the three areas.)

Choice of Mentor: (Provide first and last name of your mentor, and explain why
he/she is a qualified person to mentor you in this project)

Determining Learning Goals

Prior Knowledge and Skills: (What do you already know regarding your
project? What have you already done in this area? Do you have any formal
training, have you taken any classes, or are you currently taking a class in this
area?)

Learning Stretch: (How will this project be a new and meaningful challenge for
you?)

Learning Goals/Outcomes: (What will you understand and/or be able to do as

a result of this project?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
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Student’s Name: Advisory Teacher:

Junior Proposal Boards---Presentation Rubric

Project Presentation Did they do this: Other Notes

Introduction- Satisfactory ___
Introduces self and project or
Unsatisfactory ___

Physical Project – Satisfactory ___ Is there a hands-on piece?

Explains what they will be or Will the project take around 40+
physically doing and learning Unsatisfactory ___ hours
for their project Check to see if they have thought
through involvement with others…
(checked w/ admin if something at school,
talked to community partners, made
appropriate first steps to make sure feasible)
Research – Satisfactory ___ Cannot be a How To paper. The
Explains what they may be or student needs to be able to prove
researching and how that is Unsatisfactory ___ something… English 12 teachers will
related to their project help refine, but do not accept if it is way
off.
Learning Stretch – Satisfactory ___ How much background experience does
Explains how this will be a new or the student have, this should stretch the
experience and a learning Unsatisfactory ___ student learning.
stretch for them
Criteria – Satisfactory ___ Must meet 2 of the 3 criterion
Which criteria will be met and or
how will they be met Unsatisfactory ___
(Academic, Community
Service, or Career)
Mentor – Satisfactory ___ Must have to complete Jr. Boards
Appropriate and signature is or
on the proposal Unsatisfactory ___

Parents – Satisfactory ___ Must have to complete Jr. Boards

Have signed the proposal or
Unsatisfactory ___

Cost Analysis – Satisfactory ___ If an enormous amount of $, check to

Is the cost plan clear and or make sure they have the means or a
reasonable Unsatisfactory ___ plan

Time Analysis – Satisfactory ___ Is it doable?

Appears to be enough time or
allotted to get the project done Unsatisfactory ___

Approved ________________ Needs Work _________ Not Approved ________________

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Project Commitment Poster

Purpose: To create a visual representation of your Senior Project

Requirements:
Size:
o Standard 8‖ x 12‖ paper

Layout:
o Title should be prominently displayed and neatly rendered.
o Your name, first and last, should be neatly printed in the lower right corner.
o The body of your poster should pictorially represent your project.

Craftsmanship:
o Lettering of title should be legible and easily read from at least 20 feet.
o Use correct spelling of all words
o Images used must be school appropriate
o If collage is created, paper must be carefully glued down so images remain flat
o Poster must be smudge- and smear-free

Consider:
o Using color blocks, background design or shapes to organize visual elements
o Overlapping pictures or putting them at angles to create interest
o The effect of using a combination of large, medium and small shapes within your poster
using computer-generated text which you apply to a poster for a clean, crisp appearance
o Adding captions of drawings to the visual images

Important:
Remember that your poster will help create a first impression of your project.
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SAMPLE
Junior Project Proposal
Student Name: Joe Runner

Project Title: Organizing a Marathon

Overview
Description of Project:
I will train for and run a marathon
Thesis Statement: The benefits of running as a life-long sport can battle the
obesity epidemic for children and adults alike.
Significance of Project:
This is something I’ve dreamed of doing for the last five years, ever since I was in
track in middle school. Organizing the marathon will involve not only the city
council, police, and those interested, but will help the community as a whole to
become more physically fit.
Choice of Mentor:
I’ve chosen to use John Smith, a friend of my father’s, to be my mentor. He has
been running for 17 years and recently trained for and ran his 12th marathon.

Determining Learning Goals

Prior Knowledge and Skills:
I have been on the track and cross-country team since 8th grade. I’ve run one 5k
race. I’ve read a few running magazines over the years and watched a few sports
programs in which athletes are discussing their training methods. My cross-
country coach has discussed good training methods.
Community Outreach:
I have never planned for an event like this, but I will focus on reaching different
organizations and businesses to gain the interest of as many people as possible.
Newspapers, radio stations, and community organizations will be the most likely
candidates.
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THE COMMUNITY MENTOR

A mentor for the Senior Project should be chosen with great care since the Mentor oversees the
Senior Project and is the expert in the field the student is exploring. The choice should be directly
influenced by the topic of the Senior Project. An ideal mentor, for example, would be an instructor
in the academic area of choice, a respected member of the community, or a business man or
woman who is willing to help the student achieve his/her goals. Help in locating a mentor will be
given if requested.

The Mentor provides three essential services for the student.

1. Guides the student through the project phase
2. Helps the student organize information and gain experience in the field chosen
3. Signs both the mid-project and final project verification forms
4. Reads and critiques the student’s research paper early on and then in its final form (focusing
on content).

The Mentor also:

1. Must be at least 21 years of age
2. May not be a family member
3. May not be a faculty member of the school you attend.
4. Must be willing to help the student on a volunteer basis
5. Will sign the appropriate forms
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Mentor Ideas
 Mentors are the experts in the community who have offered or are willing to help with the
Senior Project. Use their expertise. Much of the value of the Senior Project comes via
contacts with these experts.

 Consider that the Mentor often has a busy schedule

 Give the Mentor advance notice that the student needs help

o Set up appointments and keep them

o Be appreciative of the Mentor
o Keep the Mentor informed of what is going on with the project

When initial contact is made with a mentor, use polite telephone manners. The following may be
an example of how the first conversation might be approached:

“Hello Mrs. Jones (Mentor name), this is _____________, the person whose Senior Project
you have agreed to mentor.”

Mentors are busy people who have lots of contacts—they may not remember you, at first. It is
important that your Mentor have your name, address, and phone number.

Then, it is important to schedule when (what days, times, and/or weeks) your Mentor is
able to talk with you. (Try to make contact only during the scheduled time.)

Try to remember to always thank your Mentor for his/her time after each contact or conversation.
Please be sure to go over the expectations with the Mentor stated within the Mentor/Student
Form.

Please understand that the student and Mentor should work together on all aspects of the
Senior Project: Proposal, Paper, Project, and Presentation.
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Dear Senior Project Mentor:

Thank you for volunteering your time and expertise for one of the seniors in the class of 2013.
Your efforts will allow this student to demonstrate all the skills required for graduation in this
culminating project. Each student will plan and execute a project, plan and write a cited research
paper on a related topic, and finally make a presentation about the whole process of completing
the senior project to an audience or panel of judges.

The students have chosen projects that they are interested in and understand that it is their
responsibility to perform the work and create the results. You are in no way obligated to do
required work for them or provide materials for them. You may donate materials if you
choose to do so, however. We ask you to check on their progress periodically during the project
(by filling out evaluation forms and signing the student’s project journal) to
encourage the student and to ensure that they complete it on time. We will have forms for you to
complete at the mid-point and end of the project. We also ask that you mentor the student in the
content of their research paper—ensuring accuracy. Again, we will have some forms for you to
complete related to the paper.

Liability for injury and/or death during this project has been assumed by the student’s
parents/guardian, as they have approved the student’s choice of project. You will be invited to the
Senior Project Open House that will occur at the end of the school year. You are an essential part
of this effort and we look forward to meeting with you and sharing ideas and comments about
Senior Projects.

Thank you for your interest in our students.

Sincerely,

Senior Project Coordinators

(Advisory Teacher)
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Mentor & Student Contract
The mentor and student complete and sign this contract.
This contract lists the expectations the mentor and student have for each other. It helps focus your meetings and
provides direction. Make a copy for the mentor and student. It will be needed later in the year.

Student Information
Student
Name
Student
Phone/E-mail Advisor
Brief Description
of Senior Project

Mentor Information
Mentor
Name
Work Home Phone
Phone (optional)

Email

Address

City State Zip

Please state your qualifications and experience in the subject area of the student’s project:

If the project involves organizing an event, the mentor must be at the event to supervise and evaluate. This is very
important. If it is impossible for the mentor to be at the event, the student must find a staff member to fill in.

In the space below, please list the responsibilities both of you agree to fulfill:
Student Responsibilities Mentor Responsibilities
1. 1.
2. 2.
3. 3.
4. 4.
5. 5.
All written work must be appropriate for high school and be free of profanity, use of drugs, pornography and use of teacher names.
I agree to mentor this student on the required Senior Project. I agree to meet (communicate with) the student a minimum of two
times per month in order to monitor the progress of the project. We both agree to fulfill the responsibilities as listed above.

Mentor
Signature Date

Student
Signature Date
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Mid-Project Mentor Report

(To be shown to Advisory teacher by _________________)

Student Name_____________________________________Phone Number__________

Mentor___________________________________________Phone Number__________

Have you seen the student’s Project Log? Yes_____ No_____

The student has conferred with me about his/her project. Yes_____ No_____

How many times have you met with your student thus far? ___________________

In what ways have you worked with the student?

_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

The student is/is not (circle one) making satisfactory progress at this point and should be able/not
be able (circle one) to successfully complete the project phase by
_____________________________________.

Please give a brief explanation of any concerns or questions you may have about the student’s
progress toward completion of his/her project.

_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

Mentor Signature____________________________________ Date____________________

Thank you very much for the time and effort you are contributing to our student and his/her Senior
Project. Your time and energy are very much appreciated!
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Mentor Evaluation

Student Name Mentor’s Signature

To the Mentor: Please evaluate the student’s project using the criteria below. Please write additional
comments. These comments are very important in the evaluation procedure. The student’s Senior
Advisory teacher will use your evaluation in assessing the quality of the project. Please be as candid and
thorough as possible. Please total the score. Thank you very much for your time.

Approaching Exceptional
Below Standard Meets Standard Score Comments
Standard Achievement

Not applicable Not applicable Meets goals of Exceeds goals of

proposal/challenge
Meets goals of

ork required) proposal; proposal; a major

product was a challenge
challenge

1 point 2 points 3 points 4 points /4

Does not meet Is enthusiastic Enthusiastic; Prepares

Work Ethic

as scheduled; but is knows how & questions in

rarely asks sometimes late when to ask advance; extends
questions; to meetings; questions; learning outside
lethargic; asks few shows initiative; meeting times
unenthusiastic; questions comes ready to
disrespectful work

1 point 2 points 3 points 4 points /4

Product was Product was on Product was Product was

Timeliness in completion

late, time, but did not complete early complete well in

incomplete, or allow extra time enough to allow advance of due
of for for date
unacceptable troubleshooting, troubleshooting,
quality etc. adding finishing
touches, and
evaluation

1 point 2 points 3 points 4 points /4

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Approaching Exceptional
Below Standard Meets Standard Score Comments
Standard Achievement
Did not meet Nearly met all Met all Exceeded
Responsibilities on mentor sheet fulfilled

responsibilities responsibilities responsibilities responsibilities

on a regular on mentor
basis contract

1 point 2 points 3 points 4 points /4

Poor or Craftsmanship Craftsmanship Craftsmanship

Product Quality

incomplete qualities do not qualities meet demonstrates

craftsmanship; meet the the standard for highly
clearly below standard for student’s exceptional
standard for student’s individual achievement as
student’s individual learning, skills, measured
individual learning, skills, & ability levels; according to all
learning, skills, & ability levels; use of correct professional
& ability levels; use of correct tools, standards for this
little or no tools, techniques, kind of work
evidence of techniques, technology,
use of correct technology, terminology, &
tools, terminology, & leadership
techniques, leadership (where
technology, (where applicable) is
terminology, applicable) observable
& leadership lacking
(where
applicable)
1 point 2 points 3 points 4 points /4

Sub-total
Subtract 1/2 of sub-total
points if late

Total points /20

26
PROJECT JOURNAL

The Physical Project Journal

 All students will be expected to keep a project journal which will be included in the
Senior Project Portfolio.
 A journal entry is required for EACH time the student works on the project and follow
the journal guidelines
o Each entry will being with the date
o Each entry will include the sessions, activities, work, attempts, failures,
frustrations, victories, etc.
o Each entry will include the students’ feelings, emotions, and reactions to
what is going on at this particular stage of the project
o Each entry will include the learning that is taking place
o Each entry will include when the session is over and number of hours worked
o An entry could cover as little as a short phone call to arrange an interview,
make and appointment, or set up an interview
 Journal format is chosen by the student
o Chart form
o Word processed
o Hand written
o Kept in a notebook
o Kept on a disk to be printed later for assessment
 Journal must be accessible to the student at all times
o It is an on-going document
o It is evidence that learning is taking place
 Journal must have Mentor signatures with dates
o At least five signatures from the Mentor is required
o Parents must initial at least five times throughout the process
 Journal is very important and will be evaluated at the end of the project
 Format for the first page of the journal
o Name:
o Date:
o Research Topic:
o Thesis Statement
o Project Topic:
o Mentor/Mentor Information
o Description of Project
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Project Journal Sample
First Page of Journal:
Name: Casondra Piedmont
Date: May 1, 2013
Research Topic: Quilting is a business venture

Thesis Statement: Reviving quilting, which is becoming a lost art, has cultural, economic, and
humanitarian benefits for our community.

Project Topic: Piece a quilt and hand quilt it as a part of the community drive ―Quilts for
Christmas‖

Mentor:
Name: Susie Seamstress
Position: Neighbor who has a degree in quilting
Telephone: 324-7153
Description of Project: I pieced a quilt together and hand quilted it. I picked out my own fabric and also
designed my own pattern. I made matching pillow shams and decorative pillows.

Log:

December 10, 2003

� My mentor and I went to Hancock Fabric to pick out my material. We also designed
the pattern we would make.
� I learned that it is hard to match and choose material that goes together and will fit
your chosen pattern. I had first thought I would do an Americana theme, but when it
came time to pick my fabric I couldn’t find anything I liked. I found some material I
really liked, so I chose three other fabrics that matched.

� Total time: 2 hours

December 25, 2003

� I began just cutting strips and squares of material for my quilt.
� At first I was really nervous about working the rotary cutter. My aunt had just had to
get stitches from cutting her finger badly with one. I was really careful, and by the end
of the quilt I was comfortable using the rotary cutter.
� My mentor showed me how to properly cut the material and how to fold it straight so I
could cut more than one strip at a time.
� Total time: 1 hour

January 14, 2003

� I sewed strips together
� This was my first attempt at sewing and working on the sewing machine. I learned that
I wasn’t very good at sewing a straight line. The way I tried to solve this was to put a
piece of tape one the sewing machine desk, to act as my guide.
� Total time: 1 ½ hours
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THE RESEARCH PAPER
Senior Project
Research Paper Rubric

Exemplary Proficient Progressing Not Yet

4 3 2 1
Format Follows style book— Follows style book— Follows style book with Does not follow
no errors no errors minor errors style book
Not less than 5 or more Not less than 4 or more Too short or too long Bare beginning
than 7 typed pages than 6 typed pages

Organization Intro paragraph: Intro paragraph: Intro paragraph: Organization is

-begins broadly on topic -begins broadly on topic -begins with thesis or not evident or
-ends with clear thesis -ends with thesis thesis is unclear needs more work;
-creative, engaging
More work is
Body paragraphs: Body paragraphs: Body paragraphs: needed in the
-clear topic sentences -obvious topic sentences -topic sentences unclear following area(s):
-logical paragraphing -evident paragraphing - paragraphing illogical -intro paragraph
-insightful development -logical development - thought process is hard -thesis
-easy to follow, inviting -flows smoothly to follow -topic sentences
-conclusion
Conclusion: Conclusion: Conclusion: .
-solidifies thesis -reaffirms thesis -no thesis
-summarizes key points -summarizes key points -no summary
without listing -no new information -new information
-no new information -ends broadly -ineffective ending
-ending complements
intro paragraph
Content Thesis is clear; support Thesis is clear; Weak support for and/or Support and/or
is substantial; support is adequate; development of topic; development of
Point of view is Point of view is topic is lacking
consistent; consistent; Need for revision in one or
Plagiarism is avoided by Plagiarism is avoided by more of the following areas: More work is
correctly using relevant, correct use of sources in -support of thesis needed to meet the
reliable sources in citations, -choice of sources requirements of the
citations; Works Cited page -avoids plagiarizing assignment
Works Cited page follows Writing with -citations
correctly follows Writing Style with minimal -Works Cited page
with Style; errors; -word choice
Transitions effectively Transitions link ideas -sentence variety
link ideas and and paragraphs; -transitions
paragraphs; Vocabulary is
Vocabulary is precise appropriate but may lack
and mature; maturity or precision;
A variety of sentence A variety of sentence
structures are included. structures are included.
Grammar, Strong command of Some errors are evident Surface and/or mechanical Many errors affect
Mechanics, grammar, spelling, but are minor. errors detract from meaning the ability of the
Spelling, and mechanics, and or readability. reader to
Punctuation punctuation, with few or understand the
no errors meaning.
29
Portfolio Grading Rubric
Student:

Advisory Teacher:

Yes No Portfolio Items

Title Page or Poster of Commitment
Proposal Form
Project Journal of work done on project including time spent and learning that
occurred.
Project Self-evaluation form
Mentor Evaluation Forms – these MUST be in the portfolio in order to pass the
portfolio and project portions of the Senior Project
Graded copy of research paper
Organization
Pass
30
Open House

Open House Requirements

Purpose: The purpose of the open house is to give students the opportunity to
PRACTICE for the Senior Project Boards. It also gives the community the
opportunity to come in and see the wonderful work our students have done.

Before the Open House

• You are responsible for providing your own electronic equipment and materials
• Let your Advisory teacher know if you need access to a power outlet two weeks prior

During the Open House:

• A tri-fold display board—neatly done
• Evidence for both your paper and project should be on the display
• Pictures, other graphics, charts, etc.
• You might even display some of your research for the paper.
• Dress professionally—you are representing the school.
• You must remain at your project during the entire open house.

After the Open House:

You may not leave until you have done the following:
• Clean up around your area
• Fold up the table at which your project was displayed
• Turn in your portfolio to the Senior Advisor

The Open House will be May 2013 (TBA)

31
Yes No Open House Requirements Rubric
Participation: At display during entire open house in order to practice
presenting all parts of Senior Project – paper and physical project
Display appropriately represents work done by the student for the research
paper and the project equally
Display includes a tri-fold board with graphics, pictures, etc. that represent
the paper and the physical project, and the actual physical project is present
(if possible)
Portfolio is turned in at the end of the Open House
Student is dressed appropriately
Pass
32
Senior Project Panel Presentation Rubric
Student Name Speech Start Time: Speech End Time:
Total Speech Time:
Please evaluate the student’s presentation based on the criteria listed below. Please make constructive comments,
students appreciate your feedback.

Criteria 1 Not Yet 2 Progressing 3 Proficient 4 Exemplary Score

Comments
Introduction Attention Getter Attention getter Attention getter Attention getter is
Needs lacks spark; is interesting; unique; appropriate
improvement or introduction appropriate; sets
non existent abrupt the tone

Content Grammar; Somewhat Organized in Uniquely insightful

Speech Body Transitions; organized & logical and engaging;
Presentation Organization logical; sequence; organized in logical
(Must be 70% or Disorganized; significant errors mostly correct sequence; flawless
very poor in grammar; grammar; grammar; smooth
more)
grammar; no transitions smooth transitions
transitions; ideas inconsistent or transitions Within 7-10 minute
choppy missing More than 1 window
More than 3 More than 2 minute
minutes minutes under/over time
under/over time under/over time
Knowledge Research not Research lacks Research Meaningful research;
Depth evident or depth; project applied to quality project is of superior
applied to project lacks quality or product; shows quality; shows in-
meaning depth of depth knowledge of
knowledge topic
Conclusion Lacks conclusion Included but Clear and Uniquely insightful;
Clarity; somewhat consistent makes a lasting
Appropriateness irrelevant or with speech impact on audience
inconsistent with body; sense of
speech body completion

Panel Questions Inconsistent, Inability to Answers all Answers questions

Knowledge: Poise unclear answers; answer critical simple with ease and
shows limited questions; shows questions; expertise; shows
knowledge & no some knowledge difficult questions clear understanding
deeper but limited show noteworthy
understanding understanding and emerging
understanding

Meets Standard: Yes No

33

The following is a possible outline for your presentation speech:

Presentation Outline for Senior Project Boards

• Introduction
• Attention getter:
• Go over main points of presentation (briefly state what you will tell the audience
concerning the following)

o Physical project: What is it?

o Connection: Which two of the three elements did you address?
(Academic, Community Service, or Academic)

o Learning Stretch: How did your project change you?

o Evaluation: Rate your performance from 1-10 and explain your rationale
o Miscellaneous: Memorable moments, etc.

• Time for Question and Answer period

• Thank the judges, shake hands, collect your presentation materials, exit
the room.
34

Portfolio
Senior Project Portfolio Requirements

The following is the order (and checklist) for your Senior Project Portfolio. It would be best to use
dividers of some sort to ensure organization of your portfolio.

____ Commitment Poster (revised if you changed your thesis or anything

else)

____ Table of Contents – this might not have page numbers, but should
explain the organization of the portfolio.

____ Proposal
o Many of you had to revise your thesis – be sure to put both your
original thesis (where it says ―tentative thesis‖ on proposal) and
your revised thesis (where it says ―final thesis‖ on proposal).
o Also be sure all parts of it are signed – you may tear the original
signature page from your first proposal if nothing has changed.

Project Section
____ Project Journal
____ Self Evaluation Form
____ Mentor Evaluation Forms (midterm and final)
____ Letters to Senior Project Committee explaining why journals and/or evaluation
forms were late (only if applicable)

Paper Section
____ Research Paper (clean, revised copy) with Works Cited page
____ Presentation Materials (optional)
____ Pictures, etc. of different aspects of the project (Make it visually appealing)

Your Portfolio is due: TBA to your Advisory teacher.

35
Senior Project Self-Evaluation
Student Name: Date:
Advisory teacher: Research topic:
Thesis Statement:

1. Describe your physical project IN DETAIL:

2. How many total hours did you spend on your physical project? __________________

3. What date did you start? _______________

4. What date did you finish? ___________________

5. What materials did you use?

6. What are three things you learned from working on the physical project?
a.
b.
c.

7. What are three things you learned from your research paper?
a.
b.
c.

8. How do you feel that your project will compare with others?

9. What problems did you encounter? How did you overcome these problems?

10. Did your physical project turn out the way you planned? If not, why?

11. What would you do differently if you could start all over (in regards to either the physical
project or the research paper)?

12. What did you learn about yourself?

13. What grade do you think you deserve? Justify this grade in 50 or more words.

My grade: _____________

Justification:
36
FINAL SENIOR PROJECT CHECKLIST
Student Name:______________________________________

Advisory Teacher:___________________________________

Task Included
Proposal
Mentor
Journal
Research Paper
Open House
Presentation
Self-Evaluation
Portfolio
37
Twin Falls School District
Senior Project 2012-2013
Exact dates will be given in Advisory each year to coincide with school calendar.

Due Date Senior Project Component Submit To:

Junior Year
Early February Thesis Statement due English 11B
Mid April Project Proposal due Advisory 11
Late April Junior Boards
Senior Year
Mid September Journal Check #1 Advisory 12
End October Poster of Commitment (2 color copies) Advisory 12
Mid November Journal Check #2 Advisory 12
End Semester 1 Research Paper Due English 12
Mid-March Journal Check #3 Advisory 12
Early April Mentor Evaluation Due Advisory 12
Mid April Table of Contents for Portfolio Due Advisory 12
Late April Recommended Project Completion Date Advisory 12
Late April Finalized Portfolio Advisory 12
Early May Project Boards
Mid May Open House
Late May Thank You Notes