Academic Research Program
The signature experience of the Upper School curriculum is the Academic Research Program (ARP), a four- year sequence that prepares each student to conduct a yearlong, in-depth academic research project on a topic of their choice. Ninth grade students take a course called ARP 9, which, in close coordination with the core disciplines, begins to equip students with the skills and habits of mind necessary to conduct meaningful independent research, competencies which are further developed in sophomore year core classes. Juniors enroll in a one-semester course called ARP 11, which serves as a formal tutorial in research approaches and academic writing. Students shape questions within their chosen topics and complete formal prospectuses that guide the projects to be carried out during senior year. The diverse range of recent projects includes topics like effects of social media vernacular on world English and the use of wastewater to generate clean electricity. In the senior year course, ARP 12, each student conducts a sustained study, with guidance from appropriate faculty and, in many instances, an expert mentor from outside the Liggett community. Students write a significant, thorough, and insightful paper regarding their research and findings, and share their learning with authentic audiences locally, regionally, and, in some cases, nationally.
Academic Research Program 9 One Semester (Offered First and Second Semesters) Prerequisites: None In this semester-long course, students will explore the principles, techniques, and applications of data science. Through hands-on activities, projects, and real-world examples, students will develop essential skills in data analysis, visualization, and interpretation. Students will learn the fundamentals of data science, including data collection, data cleaning, and data manipulation techniques using Pyret software. They will gain an understanding of different types of data and how to effectively work with structured data sets. Students will delve into exploratory data analysis techniques to uncover patterns, trends, and insights hidden within data. They will learn how to use computer code and visualization tools to analyze
data sets, identify outliers, and draw meaningful conclusions. Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication of results. Students will work on individual and group projects, where they will apply their newfound skills to analyze data sets, develop models, and present their findings to their peers. By the end of the course, students will have a basic understanding in data science principles and techniques, empowering them to explore further opportunities in this exciting and interdisciplinary field. This will allow them to approach research from a data-driven perspective in any content area.
2024-2025 ULS Curriculum Guide
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