What is CAS Creativit y Activity Service CAS

What is CAS? Creativit y Activity Service CAS is a personal journey of learning and self-discovery outside of the classroom

CAS is one of the three essential elements in every IB Diploma student’s program experience. CAS is the heart and spirit of IB!

Creativity: Arts, and other experiences that involve creative thinking, such as learning to paint, dance, cook, or organize a charity event. Activity: Physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle, which is outside of the normal curriculum, such as participation on a sports team. Service: An unpaid and voluntary exchange that focuses on the betterment of others and has a learning benefit for the student such as helping out senior citizens,

Objectives of CAS activities should: Challenge and extend the individual student Develop a spirit of discovery and selfreliance Encourage new skills and interests Inspire a sense of responsibility towards all members of the community

Commitment to CAS activities must be done on a regular basis for at least 18 months – typically from September of Junior year to March of Senior year. Students are expected to be involved in weekly CAS activities and have at least two activities for each component. Students must have one project of at least one month’s duration. Cannot be paid or for a grade. Cannot have parents or other students as

Requirements of CAS Self-review at the beginning of your CAS experience and set personal goals for what you hope to achieve during the next 18 months. Plan, do, and reflect (plan activities, carry them out and reflect on what you have learned). Communicate with your CAS Coordinator at least once a month throughout the duration of the 18 month cycle to discuss your plans and progress. This can be done through Manage. Bac, e-mail, meeting, etc. Meet with your CAS Coordinator at the beginning, mid-point, and end of the 18 month cycle. Take part in a range of activities, including at least one group project. Keep records of your activities and achievements, as well as show evidence of meeting the eight IB CAS Learning Outcomes through

IB CAS Learning Outcomes There should be evidence that students have: 1. Identified their own strengths and developed areas for growth 2. Undertaken new challenges and developed new skills 3. Planned and initiated activities 4. Shown perseverance and commitment in their activities 5. Recognized the benefits of working collaboratively with others 6. Engaged with issues of global importance 7. Considered the ethical implications of their choices and actions

How does this process start?

The interest inventory– Students fill out an interest inventory. The questions are designed help students identify their own areas for growth, interests, and skills needed for the future.

The interview—Each student will then meet with the IB counselor to discuss the student’s area(s) for growth and the student’s interests.

After the counselor makes a few suggestions, the student explores his/her options and makes a decision about his/her project.

Opportunities for Exploration: The CAS Fair(? ) Previous Projects Personal Interests/Hobbies