Masterworks Program

The aim of the Masterworks (MW) program is to have grade nine students conduct a serious exploration of a topic of interest to them. Through this study, it is expected that candidates will gain a better understanding of both the process and product of academic inquiry. By completing a MW, candidates will:

• produce a piece of work that surpasses their previous accomplishments;

• employ research, writing, and oral presentation skills in a challenging assignment that means something to them;

• gain a deeper understanding of their topic of interest;

• investigate and then express their own interest and understanding of the topic;

• learn something of what is involved in pursuing a subject in depth.

To complete the project, candidates work with an advisory committee (of one school faculty members and 1-2 external advisors) over 4-6 months to investigate a topic of personal interest. The process culminates in the writing of a 12-40 page paper and then a public “defence” where students are expected to give an oral presentation and answer questions about their work.

For a more complete outline of the Masterworks process and requirements, please click on “Masterworks Program Outline” to the left.

Please also be sure to review examples of Grade Nine Masterworks papers that have been written in the past.

Finally, for a working example of an actual Masterworks program in action, please go to www.islandpacific.org and follow the links from “Academics & Activities” to their description of the program. IPS typically hosts its Masterworks Presentations in the second week of June and, as these are public events, visitors are always welcome.