Academics
Capstone Experience
Capstone Projects: Bringing Learning to Life in Middle School
As a parent, you want your child to be ready for the challenges of high school — not just academically, but with the confidence and skills to navigate new experiences. At Newtown Friends School, our capstone projects for middle school help your eighth-grader bridge that gap by turning learning into action. Through hands-on research, expert interviews, and creative problem-solving, students take on projects that reflect their interests and push them to think critically. This experiential learning approach gives them a real sense of accomplishment and the tools they need to thrive in the next chapter of their education.
Learn more about our private middle school in Newtown, PA:
What are Capstone Experiences?
Capstone projects for middle school provide students with an interdisciplinary learning experience that ties together everything they’ve learned in Upper School (Grades 6-8). These real-world learning opportunities challenge students to apply their knowledge and skills in a meaningful way, whether through a research paper, product development, presentation, or performance. Each project is designed to build essential skills like critical thinking, public speaking, research, teamwork, media literacy, goal setting, and self-sufficiency.
The Capstone Project Timeline
The capstone project for middle school is a year-long journey that helps eighth-grade students develop essential academic and life skills through a structured process. Meeting once a week, students move from brainstorming and research to project execution:
1. First Quarter
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Identify a topic of personal interest and craft a central question
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Submit their topic to the instructors for revision and approval
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Conduct research and read and evaluate sources about their topic
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Interview an expert in their field
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Compile an annotated bibliography featuring their strongest sources
2. Second Quarter
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Write a proposal detailing their plan and timeline for their project
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Work with instructors to revise and improve their proposal
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Communicate with any necessary outside parties to ensure that all elements of the proposal are appropriate and functional
3. Third Quarter
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Carry out the steps of the proposal
4. Fourth Quarter
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Write a reflection paper about their project experience
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Prepare a presentation about their project experience
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Share their presentation with parents and peers in advisory groups
Three Ways Parents Can Help Their Middle Schooler Succeed
You want to encourage your child’s growth, independence, and confidence — and knowing what to expect from the capstone project can help you prepare them for this year-long project, high school, and a lifetime of learning.
What is the Purpose of the Capstone Experience
The capstone experience at Newtown Friends School is part of our commitment to providing a holistic education for our students. This comprehensive learning approach fosters independence and prepares them for high school by encouraging deep thinking, problem-solving, and self-driven exploration.
How will my child be evaluated?
Each capstone project is graded, but the focus is on growth and continuous improvement. Assignments are broken into smaller parts, with detailed feedback provided at every step. Students are encouraged to revise their work and strengthen their reasoning. This experience is about learning from mistakes, refining skills, and embracing challenges.
How can I support my child in this class?
Checking the online gradebook regularly ensures your child is meeting deadlines. It also helps to set aside dedicated time and space for them to work. This process encourages creativity and independence, so supporting their ideas while allowing them to take ownership is key.
“The Capstone Experience has been an incredible opportunity for our daughter to dive into a topic she is passionate about and bring her research to life through a self-designed project. As part of the Capstone Project, she has gained valuable skills in interviewing, data collection, time management, and critical thinking. The teachers provide a strong, supportive framework while giving students the freedom to take ownership of their learning. It’s been amazing to see her develop skills that will benefit her not just in high school but also in college and beyond. ”
- NFS 8th Grade Parent
Newtown Friends School
Located In Newtown, Pennsylvania, Newtown Friends School is a Private School For Grades Pre-K-8th Grade.
