Sr. Research CONTENTS Course Syllabus Projects/Testimonials Class Pictures Blackboard Program Goals: In the Senior Research class, students learn to accomplish the following: find information using the school library databases; read professional research abstracts, reports, and reviews; read professional instructions and lab protocols; design an experiment using the scientific method; handle biological materials and chemicals aseptically and safely; operate a wide variety of laboratory equipment; obtain and analyze data; formulate and prepare solutions; write bibliographic reports on professional research activities; maintain an accurate and thorough laboratory record ("lab log"); develop presentations (written, oral, and visual); work independently; and work as part of a team. Research Project -- Various Stages Defined: The course is divided into four quarters as per Fairfax County Public Schools' requirements. The following divisions represent the major stages of a research project for this class: First Quarter: Students focus on proper laboratory technique through a variety of activities and labs developed by the instructor to provide the foundation for good biological research. Students get an idea for research, simplify the idea, and find relevant information. They should develop a list of researchers, gather materials, review techniques, and write letters of request for reprints, information, and materials, as necessary. Finally, students write a formal research proposal and present their ideas to their colleagues. Among the experimental considerations include the following: model systems; methods of detection; safety; variables; controls; reproducibility; and standards. Second Quarter: Students check the Biotechnology Laboratory and school inventories for materials on hand. They develop a list of materials needed and place an order for any required supplies, including any necessary organisms. Students conduct preliminary experiments and keep up-to-date with the literature, filling in the background as necessary. Students should keep careful records and develop charts, tables, and figures throughout this process. They hone their techniques and rethink the course of inquiry by writing a progress report. If students have made sufficient progress by this point in the school year, they are encouraged to enter Jefferson's annual Science and Engineering Fair. Third Quarter: Students revise their protocols as necessary and repeat the experiments. Careful and thorough data collection and analysis is emphasized. A variety of statistical applications are reviewed. Fourth Quarter: Students complete their experiments and write a thorough research report. They prepare presentations and visual displays that summarize their projects and participate in Jefferson's annual Technology Fair. Grading: Any grade should be an accurate and positive evaluation of a student's achievement. The point- system is utilized to mathematically compute the quarter grade based on an accumulation of points, specifically number of points accumulated by a given student divided by number of points possible during the quarter in question The numerical score is then accurately converted to a letter grade in accordance with the guidelines imposed by Fairfax County Public Schools as stated in the TJHSST Student Handbook. Quarter grades are determined by the total number of points accumulated during the grading period on such assignments as quizzes, laboratory work/"lab logs," homework, worksheets, research papers, and PowerPoint presentations, etc. The number of points possible on any given assignment reflects the amount of work/effort expected on that particular assignment. Because this is a research course, most of the points earned come from work related to the student research project, including research proposal, oral presentations, posters, and displays. Students receive the specific grading criteria for major assignments well in advance of the due date.