What do Biology, History, Chemistry and English have in common? Student interdisciplinary research at Vail Christian High School.
Let me explain. Interdisciplinary research is the practice of blending knowledge in two or more disciplines. At Vail Christian, this takes the form of a yearly research paper. In the months of January and February, every freshman, sophomore, and junior will be working to complete a research paper that combines learning about college level writing and research conventions with individualized inquiry into specific topics in biology, chemistry, or history. And it is all aimed to prepare students for similar projects and papers that become plentiful in college.
Ask any student: This is not an easy process. Teachers from different academic areas must collaborate to plan, assign and grade, and students must stretch their research, analysis, and writing abilities. These papers begin at the 5-page level for freshman students and stretch to the 10-page level for juniors. They include specific note-taking strategies, outlining techniques, and citation styles.
When our alumni come back to visit, they often mention how much these papers have prepared them for their work in college. They often brag about how much more they know about college level research and writing than their friends who did not have the same high school experience.
If, in the coming weeks, VCHS parents see notecards scattered around the house, or hear grumbling about how hard it can be to avoid plagiarism on lengthy papers – please know that this is purposeful on our part. Our teachers value working together to benefit our students so that each is college-ready.
