The CAS Project
What is the CAS Project?
mandatory part of the CAS portfolio (You must complete at least one CAS project in Grade 11 or 12, though you can do more than one.)
develops teamwork skills (primary purpose is to ensure participation in sustained collaboration; The planning, execution, and reflection is all done as a group.)
hits several learning outcomes (challenges students to show initiative, demonstrate perseverance, and develop skills such as collaboration, problem-solving, and decision-making)
can be related to one of your existing CAS experiences or brand new (You can take a pre-existing club/activity and change its direction as long as you are taking initiative. e.g. create a new section in the newspaper, begin a weightlifting club outside your normal training schedule)
addresses at least one strand (or can combine more than one strand).
follows the CAS Stages (investigation, preparation, action, reflection and demonstration)
has a defined goal and purpose
lasts a minimum of one month from planning to final reflection
uses the CAS Project Planning Form (which is approved by the CAS Coordinator and supervisor, then submitted to Managebac as a reflection)
From 2023, the Collaborative Science project (previously known as G4) will be counted towards CAS project. Further guidance on this process will happen at a later day by Mr.Cabiles and Ms.X. You do not need to plan another CAS project on your own.
Examples of CAS Projects:
Designing an album cover for a band (C)(S)
Organizing a charity event (S)
Putting on an Exhibition (C)
A student group plans, designs and creates a mural (C)
Students organize and participate in a sports team including training sessions and matches against other teams. (A)
Students set up and conduct tutoring for people in need. (S)
Students choreograph a routine for their marching band. (C)(S)
Students plan and participate in the planting and maintenance of a garden with members of the local community. (A)(S)
Students identify that children at a local school need backpacks and subsequently design and make the backpacks out of recycled materials. (C)(S)
Students rehearse and perform a dance production for a community retirement home. (C)(A)(S)
** Click here to see more ideas for CAS Projects from Xinyue Ma (Class of 2022)
How do I get started with my CAS Project?
Find teammates and brainstorm together
Find a supervisor and fill out a Supervisor Consent Form (each teammate needs to complete one)
Once you get supervisor approval, fill out the CAS Project Planning Form (one form per group)
Share the form with the CAS Coordinator and your supervisor so they can sign off on it.
Each member of the team uploads a copy of the project planning form on Managebac as a piece of Evidence.
Carry out the project, reflect as you go.
When finished, write a summative Reflection.
Words of Advice from Seniors:
you need more time than you think (time is scarce) so start early
planning is crucially important - the project is really stressful without good planning
do it with people you’re comfortable with
pick something you’re interested in
it can stull be meaningful without having to be extravagant. Don't overdo.
it can be really helpful to get someone in your group who can speak japanese
the CAS project can be a big part of your university application (especially if you are applying to US or UK universities you can talk about it in your Personal Statement and essays)