What is CAS?
CAS is a framework for learning through experience. It is designed to involve students in new roles. The emphasis is on learning by doing real tasks that have real consequences and then reflecting on these experiences over time.
What does CAS stand for?
Creativity
Arts, and other experiences that involve creative thinking.
Activity
Physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle, complementing academic work elsewhere in the Diploma Programme. Action makes you sweat.
Service
An unpaid and voluntary exchange that has a learning benefit for the student. The rights, dignity and autonomy of all those involved are respected.
How important is CAS?
CAS provides a counterbalance to the academic self-absorption some students may feel within a demanding school curriculum.
Students must satisfy all CAS requirements to pass the IB Diploma and/or the SSIS High school Diploma.
What must a CAS Student do?
As a result of their CAS experience as a whole, including their reflections, there should be evidence that students have:
1.Increased their awareness of their own strengths and areas for growth |
2.Undertaken new challenges |
3.Planned and initiated activities |
4.Worked collaboratively with others |
5.Shown perseverance and commitment in their activities |
6.Engaged with issues of global importance |
7.Considered the ethical implications of their actions |
8.Developed new skills |
Hours
The guideline for the minimum amount of CAS activity is 150 hours in total, with a reasonable balance between creativity, action and service. Students must be active with CAS activities throughout the two years of the IB Diploma and/or SSIS High school programme.
Responsibilities of the Student
With guidance from their advisers, students should choose activities for themselves, initiating new ones where appropriate.
Students are required to:
- Self-review at the beginning of their CAS experience and set personal goals for what they hope to achieve through their CAS programme
Plan, do and reflect (plan activities, carry them out and reflect on what they have learned). Evidence of this process is required.
- Undertake at least one interim review and a final review with their CAS coordinator or CAS advisor
Take part in a range of activities, including at least one project, some of which they have initiated themselves
- Keep records of their activities and achievements, including a list of the principal activities undertaken
Be involved in at least one project involving teamwork that integrates two or more of creativity, action and service, and is of significant duration.
- Show evidence of achievement of the eight CAS learning outcomes.
Complete and reflect on over 150 hours of CAS activities during the two years of the IB Diploma programme.
