1. Compile a list of public and private junior high schools, high schools, and colleges with community service as a graduation requirement. Are any of these schools near where you live? If so, interview students and advisors to learn about what types of services are performed and for what duration service is required. How do students perceive community service? Did any students select that school specifically because of the community service requirement?

What is the success rate for completion of projects? Has anyone not graduated because he or she did not complete required community service? If no schools with community service requirements are near your home, find articles and details about one, such as Iowa Wesleyan College, in print and in Internet sources and contact the programs' advisor to collect information to write a report.

2. Pick one story, and write an...