Philadelphia Museum of Art Research Project
On-site research and public presentation
In year two of the Interdisciplinary Sequence, ninth graders select a Medieval or Renaissance artwork to study at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This project culminates in the student giving a comprehensive description of the work one afternoon to parents, friends, faculty and museum-goers.
Philadelphia Research Project
Urban research and analysis
In tenth grade, students explore current issues affecting the city by combining research and interviews with local elected officials and professionals.
U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum Study
Spiritual resilience and its legacy
As part of the Religious Thought class, tenth graders study peace and social justice. This project leads to a trip to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. Prior to attending, students adopt a Holocaust victim’s name, and write letters from that person’s viewpoint. The visit celebrates the human spirit in the face of oppression.
Washington Research Project
Speaking with the nation’s leaders
Juniors travel to Washington, D.C., to interview elected officials and policy makers on contemporary issues ranging from education and welfare reform to tobacco regulation and the death penalty. This two-day expedition complements library and online research on topics of current interest to the American public.
Junior Research Project
Historical research and oral presentation
During their first semester, juniors complete a major research paper as part of their U.S. history course. Their work culminates in students presenting their research findings to an audience of upper school students and faculty.
Junior Internship Option
Investigating professional interests
Juniors may intern in Philadelphia workplaces, supervised by an on-site mentor and internship advisor from school. The internship, planned to occur during a school break, is a rare opportunity to explore professional interests within corporations, research labs, government or social service agencies, media organizations and professional practices.
Senior Internship/Senior Independent Project Option
Working in the real world
Seniors spend three weeks in Philadelphia workplaces supervised by an on-site mentor and internship advisor from school. Students have made documentaries, worked in theater, assisted doctors and lawyers, and created murals. This graduation requirement, which receives a pass/fail grade, concludes with an oral summary of the experience.
Math/Science Symposium
Young mathematicians and scientists present work
After completing independent research projects in mathematics or science, students present their work to parents and peers. Some students also enter their work in regional and national competitions.
International Exchange Programs
Guadalajara, Milan, and more
Friends Select goes to great lengths to connect students with peers and places of interest around the globe. Art students host and visit peers from Italy. Students of Spanish and French take part in similar two-week exchanges in countries that use those languages. And Latin students visit sites of classical antiquity in and around Rome.
US Course Offerings 2010-2011