CAS FAQs

Q. Why is CAS not graded but it's so important that students can even fail the Diploma? 

A. Unlike Math or Science, there is no fixed answer when it comes to life experiences. These make an individual student's experience unique. Still, there are unwritten rules of conduct and interaction as well as lines not to be crossed. Finding out how these apply in students' own lives and how to make their own choices are part of the CAS experience. 

Consider also that CAS gives plenty of room for trial and error. Now is the time for you to "learn from mistakes" in the real world while stakes are not high and shaping your character for growth is still possible. 

Q. Why are we expected to get involved in service-learning activities? 

A. At CIS, it is part of our mission not only to develop your intellect, but also your creativity and character to become independent, adaptable, socially responsible and internationally-minded citizens. Learn more about world issues by taking action! When you gain real world experience, you widen your perspective. 

Q. Are there a certain number of hours I need in order to pass CAS? 

A. No. CAS is not about counting hours, and the number of hours one spends in CAS experiences will not  be taken into consideration when approving the CAS requirement. CAS is about quality not quantity. 

Q. Are there a certain number of reflections/pieces of evidence I need in order to pass CAS? 

A. No. CAS is not about counting. CAS is about quality not quantity. The number of reflections and/or pieces of evidence should realistically correlate to the length of the experience. The goal of reflections is to connect back to the 7 Learning Outcomes. 

Q. Can parents be CAS supervisors? 

A. IMPORTANT: For any CAS experience, your parents, family members or friends cannot be named as supervisors due to conflict of interest. In this case, if it is an outside activity or personal experience, completion depends on ample evidence you provide which has been agreed with the CAS Advisor and CAS Coordinator (e.g. website, photos, results, official roster, copy of attendance sheet, etc..). 

Q. Who is my supervisor if I am working out in the gym/setting personal fitness goals? 

A. For personal fitness, recording your progress is an expectation for satisfactory completion. Students have used a tracking app or their smartphones to record their progress and have uploaded weekly reports or screenshots as evidence.