1 of 106 Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) The Diploma Programmeaims to encourage students to be knowledgeable and inquiring, but also caring and compassionate (CAS Guide, 1). Creativity, action, service involves students in experiential learning through a range of artistic, sporting, physical and service activities.
4 of 106 CAS and the DP Creativity, action, service (CAS) is at the heart of the Diploma Programme. It is one of the three essential elements in every students Diploma Programme experience.
5 of 106 What Do They Mean? Creativity: arts, and other experiences that involve creative thinking. Action: physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle, complementing academic work elsewhere in the Diploma Programme. 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. 6 of 106 The Overarching Goals of CAS CAS enables students to enhance their personal and interpersonal development through experiential learning. It provides an important counterbalance to the academic pressures of the rest of the Diploma Programme. A good CAS programme should be both challenging and enjoyable, a personal journey of self-discovery. 7 of 106 What Can I Gain From CAS? New skills New experiences Great potential job references Great material for scholarships Plus, the fact is, you will have done a good thing and made a difference in your community. Thats always a good thing!
8 of 106 The Nature of CAS/Basic Expectations For student development to occur, CAS should involve: real, purposeful activities, with significant outcomes personal challengetasks must extend the student and be achievable in scope thoughtful consideration, such as planning, reviewing progress, reporting reflection on outcomes and personal learning. All proposed CAS activities need to meet these four criteria. It is also essential that they do not replicate other parts of the students Diploma Programme work. 9 of 106 CAS Rules The Basics Concurrency of learning is important in the Diploma Programme. Therefore, CAS activities (not every activity, but CAS activities in general) should continue on a regular basis for as long as possible throughout the programme, and certainly for at least 18 months. Successful completion of CAS is a requirement for the award of the IB diploma. CAS is not formally assessed but students need to document their activities and provide evidence that they have achieved eight key learning outcomes. The final reflection will be a summary of how students have achieved the outcomes and aims. It is essential that CAS activity is an extension to subject work not a part of subject work. To attempt to count the same work for both a subject or extended essay and CAS would constitute malpractice. It is desirable that students, rather than teachers, initiate the service activity. This is in accordance with the greater expectations of autonomy and maturity in Diploma Programme students. No CAS = No Diploma 10 of 106 International Dimensions of CAS The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. - IB Learner Profile Booklet (March 2006) Creating a better and more peaceful world is a large aim. Working towards it should be seen as involving many small steps, which may be taken locally, nationally or internationally. It is important to see activities in a broader context, bearing in mind the maxim think globally, act locally. Working with people from different social or cultural backgrounds in the vicinity of the school can do as much to increase mutual understanding as large international projects.
11 of 106 Aims of CAS Within the Diploma Programme, CAS provides the main opportunity to develop many of the attributes described in the IB learner profile. For this reason, the aims of CAS have been written in a form that highlights their connections with the IB learner profile. The CAS programme aims to develop students who are: reflective thinkersthey understand their own strengths and limitations, identify goals and devise strategies for personal growth willing to accept new challenges and new roles aware of themselves as members of communities with responsibilities towards each other and the environment active participants in sustained, collaborative projects balanced they enjoy and find significance in a range of activities involving intellectual, physical, creative and emotional experiences. Before initiating an CAS project you must ask of it. wheres the challenge in this activity? There must be one. 12 of 106 CAS Guide 13 of 106 CAS Additional Guidance 14 of 106 CAS-Who is Who? CAS Coordinator: Mrs. Murray CAS Advisor: Supervised Study Teacher in H Block CAS Supervisor: the adult (who is not a relative) who is supervising your activity 15 of 106 Creativity Creative activities should have a definite goal or outcome. They should be planned and evaluated like all CAS activities. This can present something of a challenge where, for example, a student is a dedicated instrumental musician. It would be artificial to rule that something that is both a pleasure and a passion for the student could not be considered part of their CAS experience. How, though, can it help to fulfill CAS learning outcomes? If we looked back at the The Nature of CAS slide (#8), particularly to the second principle: personal challenge tasks must extend the student and be achievable in scope. 16 of 106 Creativity Continued Perhaps the instrumental musician can learn a particularly difficult piece, or a different style of playing, in order to perform for an audience. The context might be a fund-raising activity, or the student might give a talk to younger children about the instrument, with musical illustrations. Appropriate CAS activities are not merely more of the same. This excludes, for example, routine practice performed by IB music or dance students, but does not exclude music, dance or art activities that these students are involved with outside the Diploma Programme subject coursework. 17 of 106 Examples of Creativity Designing a nice CAS logo for the AIS DP Programme Learning to play an instrument Writing poetry or prose Joining an art club (see Mrs. Hani) Creating a work of art Designing posters and advertisements for a CAS project Doing the artwork for an awareness campaign Make a video or documentary
18 of 106 Action Similar considerations that apply to creativity apply also apply to action. An athlete will not stop training and practising in order to engage in some arbitrary, invented CAS physical activity. Modern approaches to sports coaching emphasize the notion of the reflective practitioner. Setting new goals, and planning and reflecting on their achievement, is vital. Extending may go further than setting new athletic goals, students could possibly pass on some of their skills and knowledge to others by offering a class or working with younger children. If your chosen sport is entirely individual, perhaps you should try a team game, in order to experience the different pleasures and rewards they offer. If your not the athletic type your goal may be to simply engage in an athletic activity however limited that may be. Action can also includes physical activity involved in carrying out creative and service projects. 19 of 106 Examples of Action Some excellent action activities are not sporting or competitive but involve physical challenge by demanding endurance (such as long-distance trekking) or the conquest of personal fears (for example, rock climbing). In CAS, action relates specifically to physical activity. More studying, no matter its purpose, does not qualify. Examples? Simply, try to work up a sweat at anything new or old; if it is something you have always done, set new goals and work to reach new heights. 20 of 106 Service Service projects and activities are often the most transforming element of the Diploma Programme; they have the potential to nurture and mold the global citizen. Service involves interaction that should build links with individuals or groups in the community. The community may be the school, the local district, or it may exist on national and international levels (such as undertaking projects of assistance in a developing country). Service learning should not only involve doing things for others but also doing things with others and developing a real commitment with them. 21 of 106 Service It is essential that service activities have learning benefits for the student. Otherwise, they are not experiential learning (hence not CAS) and have no particular claim on students time. This rules out mundane, repetitive activities, as well as service without real responsibility. Move from being a Personally Responsible Citizen to a Social Justice Oriented Citizen
22 of 106 Examples of Service Raising Awareness (Bullying, Environmental Issues, Human Rights Abuses, Etc.) Assisting and organizing tournaments that our school hosts Tutoring program Environmental or KIVA Group Help organise a 30 Hour Famine Help organise an Independence Day Ceremony Start or join (NHS) a Social Justice Group Help recently arrived students understand Kuwaiti culture and the AIS environment Set up a program for the children of newly arrived teachers during the two weeks leading up to school Developing an events days for the PYP and MYP students Set up language classes Neighbourhood clean-up Organizing intra-mural activities of all sorts Initiating a program or working within an already established program at your religious institution 23 of 106 Learning Outcomes All eight outcomes must be present for a student to complete the CAS requirement. Some may be demonstrated many times, in a variety of activities, but completion requires only that there is some evidence for every outcome. What does some mean? The learning outcomes are not assessed, either they are there or they are not. The completion decision for the school in relation to each student is, simply, Have these outcomes been achieved? To assess whether or not the learning outcomes have been achieved the IB says: as a result of their CAS experience as a whole, including their reflections, there should be evidence that students have: INCREASED THEIR AWARENESS OF THEIR OWN STRENGTHS AND AREAS FOR GROWTH: They are able to see themselves as individuals with various skills and abilities, some more developed than others, and understand that they can make choices about how they wish to move forward. UNDERTAKEN NEW CHALLENGES: A new challenge maybe an unfamiliar activity, or an extension to an existing one. 24 of 106 Learning Outcomes/CAS Project PLANNED AND INITIATED ACTIVITIES: Planning and initiation will often be in collaboration with others. It can be shown in activities that are part of larger projects, for example, ongoing school activities in the local community, as well as in small student-led activities. This is where you demonstrate your leadership capabilities and learn what is means to be a leader (leadership activity). WORKED COLLABORATIVELY WITH OTHERS: Collaboration can be shown in many different activities, such as team sports, playing music in a band, or helping in a kindergarten. At least one project, involving collaboration and the integration of at least two of creativity, action and service, is required. THIS IS THE CAS PROJECT! SHOWN PERSEVERANCE AND COMMITMENT IN THEIR ACTIVITIES: At a minimum, this implies attending regularly and accepting a share of the responsibility for dealing with problems that arise in the course of activities. ENGAGED WITH ISSUES OF GLOBAL IMPORTANCE: Students may be involved in international projects but there are many global issues that can be acted upon locally or nationally (for example, environmental concerns, caring for the elderly).
25 of 106 Learning Outcomes/Number of Hours CONSIDERED THE ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF THEIR ACTIONS: Ethical decisions arise in almost any CAS activity (for example, on the sports field, in musical composition, in relationships with others involved in service activities). Evidence of thinking about ethical issues can be shown in various ways, including journal entries and conversations with CAS advisers. DEVELOPED NEW SKILLS: As with new challenges, new skills may be shown in activities that the student has not previously undertaken, or in increased expertise in an established area. This focus on learning outcomes emphasizes that it is the quality of a CAS activity that is of most importance (its contribution to the students development). The guideline for the minimum amount of CAS activity is approximately the equivalent of half a day per school week (three to four hours per week), or approximately 150 hours in total, with a reasonable balance between creativity, action and service. Hour counting, however, is not encouraged.
26 of 106 CAS Rules: The Details There are no two for one deals. This means if you cleaned the beach for two hours you cannot claim two hours of service and two hours of action. You would either have to pick one of the two areas or allocate one hour to action and one hour to service. Limit the number of hours allocated to any one activity to 30. This has been done to encourage more breadth and in recognition that after 30 hours of any one activity a certain amount of repetitive action is being done which is less in the spirit of the learning outcomes. CAS hours before the start of DP1 year cannot be counted. 27 of 106 What is CAS Isnt Any class, activity or project that is already part of the students academic classes. An activity for which a student is personally rewarded either financially or with some other benefit (unless this benefit is passed on in full to a worthy cause). Doing simple, tedious and repetitive work like returning school library books to the shelves or doing monotonous clerical work. Any religious activity which can be interpreted as proselytizing An activity where there is no leader or responsible adult on site to evaluate and confirm student performance. A passive pursuit such as visiting a museum, theatre, art exhibition, concert, etc. All forms of duty within the family 28 of 106 Simply Put CAS is unpaid CAS is planned CAS is varied CAS often has a global touch CAS projects pose a challenge CAS has you dealing with others CAS is accompanied by written reflections
29 of 106 Responsibilities of the Student As far as possible, students should own their personal CAS programmes by developing and choosing what they would like to do at the local or international level. With guidance from their mentors/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 this is the summary on Managebac. plan, do and reflect (plan activities, carry them out and reflect on what they have learned). This is to be completed during and shortly after the completion of the activity. CAS activities that are completed without reflection in a timely manner will no longer be approved and will therefore not count as part of your CAS hours. 30 of 106 Responsibilities of the Student Cont. undertake at least one interim review and a final review with their CAS adviser 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 show evidence of achievement of the eight CAS learning outcomes. 31 of 106 32 of 106 Activity Examples 33 of 106 34 of 106 35 of 106 36 of 106 Reflection, Recording and Reporting Reflection needs to be developed. It should not be assumed that it comes naturally. The fundamentals are simple. Of any activity, it is appropriate to ask the following questions. What did I plan to do? What did I do? What were the outcomes, for me, the team I was working with, and others? Writing is by no means the only possible outcome of reflection. Students can present their activities orally to peers, parents or outsiders. They can make scrapbooks, photo essays, videos/DVDs, weblogs, journals or make up varied portfolios.
37 of 106 Developing Reflection General Reflection Questions: How did you feel? What did you think about the activity? What did the activity mean to you? What was the value of the activity (to you or others)? What did you learn from the activity? How might what you learned affect you beyond this activity and into the future? Other Outcomes Reflections: Reflect on EACH of the outcomes you said were related to the activity. 38 of 106 Having Trouble Getting Started? I have learned ________ about myself. I can use the skills I learned today in other situations such as I found todays activity difficult because I felt good about this activity because One thing that frustrated me was I found out that I needed to I think I have progressed because I skills I need to continue improving on are I am looking forward to doing this activity again because I learned to be a good collaborator because I have been I was nervous about See the Vocabulary Aid handout 39 of 106 Documenting Your Reflections Students will document their CAS activities in Managebac. Each reflection must address a few of the suggested general reflection questions from the previous slide and must include specific reference to learning outcomes. Reflections on Managebac should be completed as follows: www.aiskuwait.managebac.com (login w/email *welcome e-mail) 1. Respond to several of the general reflection questions (slide 37) Add[ing] New Reflection and checking off all of the outcomes you have selected for this CAS activity. 2. Complete subsequent reflections for EACH of the outcomes. This means you will Add New Reflection and check only one outcome, reflect on that particular outcome as it relates to C,A or S (depending on which one(s) you have chosen) and then repeat for all of the outcomes you have selected for this activity. 40 of 106 Documenting Your Reflections Cont. 1 and 2 combined: The other option is to complete a single reflection where you combine point #1 with the following: The specific outcomes must be stated (word-for-word) in the reflection and must be underlined or highlighted in some way. Each outcome must be addressed clearly and separately from other outcomes that were part of your CAS activity. To do this use paragraphs and any sort of bolding or underlining to highlight where you have addressed each outcome. As previously indicated, documentation can and should take many forms, including blogs, illustrated displays and videos, and written notes. The extent of your documentation should match the significance of the particular activity to the student. 41 of 106 CAS Reflection Form 42 of 106 Student Reflection Example 43 of 106 Your CAS Advisor = Supervised Study Teacher You must formally meet with your CAS adviser (Supervised Study teacher) at least twice in year 1 and once in year 2 to discuss your progress. Your CAS advisor will make a record of this meeting on Managebac. You should meet informally with your advisor at least once a month. You CAS advisor will be responsible for approving your CAS activities and ensuring your reflections are being completed properly. If you and your advisor have any concerns about whether or not your activity is appropriate please consult the CAS Coordinator. All CAS Projects must be approved by Mrs. Murray(CAS activities will be approved by your advisor) .
44 of 106 Suggestions For Organizing Your CAS Activities All students should be involved in CAS activities that they have initiated themselves. Other CAS activities may be initiated by the school. Activities should vary in length and in the amount of commitment required from the student, but none should be trivial. Some schools have ongoing relationships with local organizations that offer challenging opportunities for service activities that may also incorporate elements of creativity and/or action. Other schools undertake major, concentrated, one-off activities that may involve considerable planning and fund-raising (for example, expeditions or building projects).
45 of 106 The CAS Project Students should be involved in at least one project involving teamwork that integrates two or more of creativity, action and service, and is of significant duration. Larger scale activities of this sort may provide excellent opportunities for students to engage with issues of global importance. This is the CAS Project The CAS Project is part of your overall CAS hours and should be incorporated into the appropriate categories and reflected upon as is done with other CAS activities. In Managebac, ensure you check off CAS Project when developing the summary and completing the reflections for your CAS Project.
46 of 106 47 of 106 Supervisors and Managebac Activity supervisors responsibilities include: monitoring attendance providing guidance and support related to the activity alerting the CAS coordinator, administration or relevant CAS adviser to any problems reporting, as required, on student performance. Supervisors cannot be friends in your age-range and, if possible, should not be family members. Authenticity and sincerity of reflections are much more important in legitimizing activities than who exactly your supervisors are. Supervisors will need to report on your CAS activity. Open your Managebac Document Register for Managebac and/or provide me with your email address. 48 of 106 How Do I Start? You must get your CAS activity approved before or around the time you start working on it. If you want to get going on it and it still needs approval, see Mrs. Murray or your advisor so you know whether or not it will be approved. Fill out the activity approval forms and get the necessary signatures. To get approved you must demonstrate in your summary that the activity properly falls into one of the three categories of CAS. You must also describe how each of the learning outcomes you have checked off will be accomplished. This will be formatted in the same way you have been asked to in the reflection instructions. Finally, remember the four points described in the nature of CAS. CAS activities must be: real, purposeful activities, with significant outcomes personal challengetasks must extend the student and be achievable in scope thoughtful consideration, such as planning, reviewing progress, reporting reflection on outcomes and personal learning. 49 of 106 What Do I Do When Im Done? Click on Request Supervisor Review this will send an email to your supervisor to comment on your involvement in your CAS activity. If your supervisor has computer issues click on the pdf file underneath the Request Supervisor Review button that says, CAS Completion Form. You will print this out, have the supervisor fill in their comments, and then sign it. Once they have signed the form, scan a copy and upload it to the Reflections part of this activity and give the original to Mrs. Murray. When you think you have completed all of your CAS, email Mrs. Hull for a copy of the final reflection activity. Add it to your reflections once you have completed it and let Mrs. Murray know you have completed your final reflection and would like your CAS checked off as completed on Managebac. 50 of 106 Managebac Access 51 of 106 Managebac User Guide for Students 52 of 106 CAS Timeline DP 1 September 18 CAS Handbook Expectations October - Managebac Training Revisited January - CAS Workshop in H Block Meetings with CAS Advisors recorded May 24 All CAS Records due & Summer Proposals Meetings with CAS Advisors recorded 53 of 106 CAS Timeline DP 2 September 18 CAS Handbook Expectations Review By end of September - CAS Projects approved meetings with CAS advisors recorded January - CAS final meeting with CAS advisor reported March 28 CAS Completed Records to IBO
54 of 106 What is CAS Really About? The exit of the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, Canada, dedicated to a critical history of war, bears the following inscription: History is yours to make. It is not owned or written by someone else for you to learn... History is not just the story you read. It is the one you write. It is the one you remember or denounce or relate to others. It is not predetermined. Every action, every decision, however small, is relevant to its course. History is filled with horror and replete with hope. You shape the balance.
56 of 106 Welcome to CAS
CAS is the heart of the IB program. Through CAS you get to explore your creative side and put to use the academic skills you have acquired through many hours of hard work and study.
Did you know that failing to fulfill the CAS requirement is the #1 reason that students fail to get their IB diploma? Like all your courses, it is an aspect of the IB program that should not be taken lightly.
The CAS program is made up of three parts:
C Creativity An activity engaged in the arts or that requires creative thinking. This includes participation in the arts or creating for others, where the CAS participant learns something new.
A Action Involves physical activity where the student sweats. It is a physical activity to realize a preset goal in a new role.
S Service This means doing things, and working, for others with others; sharing and extending positive values to others; or giving time and service in a non-profit way while focusing on making life better for others.
CAS INVOLVES: real, purposeful activities, with significant outcomes personal challenges the tasks must extend you and be achievable in scope thoughtful consideration, such as planning and reviewing your progress and reporting reflection on outcomes and personal learning
57 of 106 LEARNING OUTCOMES: Through your CAS experiences and reflections, you should demonstrate that you have met each of the following learning outcomes:
increased your awareness of your own strengths and areas for growth undertaken new challenges planned and initiated activities worked collaboratively with others shown perseverance and commitment in your activities engaged with issues of global importance considered the ethical implications of your actions developed new skills
In order to meet the CAS requirement, you must provide evidence of having fulfilled each of these. In addition, at least one of your projects involving collaboration must integrate creativity, action and service.
CAS must be sustained over an 18 month period during your Diploma Programme.
DURATION OF CAS CAS must last a total of 18 months.
Please note that not all projects must last that time, some may last a few months because they are seasonal in nature. However, one should definitely avoid short term activities that only last an afternoon or a week.
CAS, therefore can be projects where you begin small, learn the ropes and then move on to a more leadership orientated role.
CAS SUPERVISION You will be supported through your CAS projects by Mrs. Murray, your Coordinator. She will meet with you in early September of your Gr. 11 year to conduct an interview, ask you about your interests and areas of development. She will offer guidance and support on potential CAS projects or help you modify ideas so that they honour the spirit and letter of CAS. She will meet with you and your group on a regular basis (once every two months, or as required). Your supervised study teacher is your CAS advisor who will help you during H block to complete your planning and reflecting on your activities. 58 of 106 The Basics of CAS are: CAS needs to be done in the form of projects. The projects should go over a reasonable time period and not just an afternoon or a few days.
All CAS hours must be under the supervision of an adult. This adult can not be a family member or someone you are living with.
All CAS projects must not have any compensation to the student other than intrinsic rewards.
All CAS projects must have a minimum of 150 hours.
All CAS projects must be human interactive.
All CAS projects must have a healthy blend of C, A and S.
All CAS projects must have goals.
CAS is a Diploma requirement!
Documentation - Managebac It is important to document your ongoing activities and reflections.
This documentation can take many forms. Among these are a written journal and various ICT media.
Your documentation should provide evidence for: Your initial goals and plans for your CAS programme The CAS activities that you have undertaken Your plans for each activity or project Your reflections on each activity (before, during and afterwards) Which learning goals have been achieved and how
For each activity, you should also provide short report from your activity supervisor.
From your documentation, it should be possible for the reader to tell what happened, why it happened, how it happened, what its value was and what you learned from it.
Together with your CAS Advisor, you will fill in: A CAS progress form A CAS individual student completion form 59 of 106 Reflecting
Reflection is a skill. Like any other skill, it is developed by practice.
The fundamental questions for any activity are:
What did I plan to do? What did I do? What were the outcomes, for me, for the team I was working with, and for others?
The answers to these questions can be complex.
Your reflection can be:
Public or private Individual or shared Objective or subjective
Most activities will involve a combination of these.
Reflection can be expressed in many forms. In the course of your CAS experience, you may find yourself reflecting:
In private thoughts that you keep for yourself In writing, such as in your diary or journal, in the planning and evaluation forms, etc. In oral presentations to other students and to parents, such as in the CAS fair. In photo essays, DVDs, weblogs, or some other ICT medium.
Deeper questions
As you develop your skills of reflection, you may begin to consider some of the following:
How did I feel? What did I perceive? What did the activity mean to me? What value did the activity have? What did I learn from this activity? How could this new insight be applied more widely? 60 of 106 Examples
The following serves as examples only to help guide you. You are responsible to ensure your projects are acceptable and have been approved by your CAS coordinator prior to starting them.
Does not qualify for CAS hours
Acceptable for CAS hours I volunteer in a library filing paper, restocking book shelves etc. I volunteer in a library filing paper, restocking book shelves, reading to children, helping people find books and helping students look up references.
I get pledges and take part in our schools 30 hour famine. I helped plan and organize our schools 30 hour famine. I get pledges, take part in our schools 30 hour famine, count money, get supplies and organize and lead activities for the famine.
I play soccer / hockey. I am a soccer / hockey player. I use these skills to coach a team of little league players.
I am a soccer / hockey player. I started a volunteer service to teach people who do not know how to skate / play soccer.
I play guitar and am in a band. I play guitar and am in a band. I used my talents to visit a seniors home every Sunday at 11:00 am and play for them.
I play guitar and am in a band. I used my talents to teach a 7 year old how to play a guitar. I was able to get a local company to sponsor a free guitar for her. I shovel my neighbours drive in the winter and I only get $5.00 That is pretty cheap for 2 hours work. I shovel my neighbours driveway in the winter. She keeps insisting on paying, but instead I suggested a cup of a cup of hot chocolate and a cookie. When I am done, I spend about 30 minutes having my cookie while she talks about all sorts of stuff and shows me pictures.
To get my World Issues credit, I tutor a refugee in reading and writing. At lunch / after school, I tutor a refugee in reading and writing.
61 of 106 Guiding questions for the proposed activity
Your answers these questions will help you decide whether the activity qualifies as CAS. They should also help you better understand your goals and expectations for the activity. Discuss the questions with you CAS Advisor, if you are unsure of how to answer any of them.
1. Is it a real task that I am going to undertake? What is this task?
2. What are my personal goals for this activity?
3. Does it have real consequences for other people and for me? What are these?
4. How will the task extend me as a person?
5. Will the task be achievable?
6. How will I plan the activity?
7. How will I review my progress in the activity?
8. How will I reflect on the outcome and on my personal learning? 62 of 106
Student Reflection example
Journal entry # 1 Jane Doe
Activity: Book club (Creativity)
Target skill: Im looking to broaden my reading and literary horizons. Ive tended to only read those books which my teachers have required me to read for course work. In fact, I think Id have to go back to middle school to think of a book I read for my own pleasure. I believe the book was A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine LEngle. That book was a fantasy, science fiction work and we tend not get such works of literature to read in class. In addition, Ive never been part of a Book Club. (CAS Coordinator notes the new challenge) In class, when there are 30 of us, its easier to remain quiet and listen to other peoples opinions about a book now, however, Ill have to actually speak up because there will only be about nine or 10 of us. So, Ill have come out of my comfort zone in order to really experience the Club properly. (CAS Coordinator notes the students increased awareness of her strengths and areas for growth)
Activity to date: Ive read the first nearly half of the book by now and have met with the Book Club once to discuss our thoughts on the book until this point. Frankly, Im surprised at how much I like both the book and sharing my thoughts. Comic books I used to love them all the superheroes and the villains of course. This, however, is a true graphic novel. Im getting a real sense of what life must have been like for the protagonist and it seems shocking. I have so many thoughts and so many themes Id like to touch on, I dont even know where to begin. For todays entry, Ill focus on one aspect: Feminism. At the same time, this topic leads into others. Ill try to focus!
Lots of material here! In the West we tend to say that women have a lot of power and individual freedoms. In many ways, were right. However, I sometimes wonder if women are held to the same sexism as those in many other countries just in an opposite way. In the graphic novel, Marjane is forced to cover her hair and wear loose fitting clothing. No tight clothes or revealing outfits. Nothing Western is permitted not even a loose fitting t-shirt! Its almost as if her femininity is denied to her. Now, on the surface, this seems 63 of 106 horrible and shes being punished for simply being female. Then I started thinking in North America, its almost if women are punished if they dont wear revealing or tight clothing. Every makeover show says that we have to show some leg or a fair mount of skin or cleavage. Plus, how many times have we heard of a singer getting a contract because she looks good as opposed to singing well! In French class, Id heard about France banning the veil in its schools. (CAS Coordinator notes engagement in issues of global importance) So, I thought I would look the issue up about why some cultures require its women to cover their heads this way. My research showed that a lot of people find it sexist. However, at the same time, a few said that this was a way to ensure that women werent objectified and required to be sexy or sexual. How? Well, women then dress in a way that didnt draw attention to their breasts or hips. This forced people to focus on the ideas coming out the womans mouth and not her body! At the same time, I learned that men have their own particular dress code. Now, I still believe that requiring a person to wear something and allowing them the freedom to wear something are essential. Whats new for me is the other side of the coin on this maybe the veil isnt something that promotes sexism maybe its even a way to counter sexism. This is true provided that the women are given choice to wear it. So, already while reading just a bit of Persepolis Ive picked up on the fact that the next time I see a woman wearing a veil in the shopping centre, I wont automatically pity her or assume that shes forced to do it. It very well may be her choice and that shes not treated like an object because of it. Now, she very well may be forced I dont know. The fact is I dont know and I need to have a more open mind to her action/ choice/ decision/ custom. (CAS Coordinator notes that the student considers the ethical implications of her actions) 64 of 106 Student Reflection example
Journal entry # 1 Jane Doe
Activity: Volleyball (Activity)
Target skill: I really like sports and Ive always felt comfortable doing those sports which require a lot of physical exertion and is high impact. Football, rugby and soccer are sports that keep me going. Plus, I like being able to work with others. However, Ive never really done anything low impact. Anyway, I was at a Winnipeg Blue Bombers practice and one of the players was coming off an ACL tear. He lost a lot of time (and money) through the injury and he wasnt up to his usual performance today. I found out a lot of people tear their ACL because theyre not very flexible. Their muscles are strong, but their joints and ligaments are stiff. So, I thought I would kill two birds with one stone and do some individual athletic activity and try YOGA!
Activity to date: Ive signed up with a few friends to try Hot Yoga at a nearby studio. I was expecting a bunch of older people to be there, but there were actually about half a dozen people in their early 20s. So, Ive realized Im really not nearly as flexible as I used to be. In Bio, the teacher mentioned that when babies are born they have about 30 more bones than we as near adults do. Those bones fuse, and while I worked on developing my muscles, I never tried to be more flexible. So, here goes.
I can barely touch my toes without bending my knees. In fact, in all honesty, I cant! My goal is to be able to be able to be a LOT more flexible than now. I dont know if theres any scientific proof that being more flexible leads to more ligament injuries, but it seems logical to me. Hmm... something to ask my Bio teacher.
All in all, the first lesson was interesting and a nice start to the day. It was cold outside, but the heat of the studio was a warm welcome. I think its a physical workout I was definitely sweating by the end and feeling more limber, but a mental workout as well. There are 26 poses to remember. We only covered about a dozen this a.m. The toughest part, however, was when the instructor asked us to cleanse our mind of all stress. All I could do was think about my assignments. Guess Ill have to work on that one! I do get the logic of taking oneself out of the tornado of thoughts and find ones quiet place inside. I guess, turning ones mind off for a bit will allow me to concentrate better later on when Ill need to do more of that.
So... no toe touching today without bending my knees and I think Ive only memorized the first five postures properly. I think Ive got my goals for the next week. Who would have thought that ones toes could seem so far away! (Coordinator notes increased your awareness of your own strengths and areas for growth, undertaken new challenges, developed new skills)
Students Signature _______________________________ Parent Signature _________________________________ CAS Advisor Signature _____________________________ CAS Coordinator Signature__________________________ Date Approved ___________________________________
Project Description: (May be typed and attached to this form)
Supervisor Name: _________________ Title ________________
I agree to supervise this student and agree with the estimated hours and description noted above.
Signature: _______________________ Date ________________
Hours Completed Year 1 Sept. 1 st Jan. 31 st Feb 1 st June 30 th
Hours Completed Year 2 July 1 st Aug 31 st Sept. 1 st Jan. 31 st Feb 1 st April 30 th
Signature ______________________ Date _____________ 67 of 106 CAS PROGRESS FORM (to be filled in together with the CAS advisor) Student: __________________ CAS ADVISOR:
EVENT DATE SIGNATURE COMMENTS Student has declared an acceptable plan for CAS
First consultation between CAS advisor and student
Second consultation between CAS advisor and student
Student has submitted reflective work
Third consultation between CAS advisor and student
Student has submitted final reflections
68 of 106 CAS completion form [To be filled in together with the CAS Advisor]
Name of student: ______________________________
There is evidence that the student has fulfilled each of the following learning outcomes.
Learning outcome
Achieved (x)
Nature and location of evidence (weblog/date, journal/page, etc)
Increased their awareness of her/his own strengths and areas for growth
Undertaken new challenges
Planned and initiated activities
Worked collaboratively with others
Shown perseverance and commitment in his/her activities
Engaged with issues of global importance
Considered the ethical implications of her/his actions
Developed new skills
Name of CAS advisor: Mr. S. Srivastava Signature of CAS advisor: Date: 69 of 106 CAS Activity Log
Student Name
Activity Brief Title and Description Date Hours C A S
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Basic Description (Name, Date, Hours)
Name: Click here to enter text.
Todays Date: Click here to enter a date.
Description of Activity (2-3 sentences): Click here to enter text.
Activity Start Date: Click here to enter a date.
Activity End Date: Your end date does not have to mean your activity is over. Any activities that span more than three weeks need multiple reflections (IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are completing this reflection more than one month after the end of your activity, you must consult the CAS Coordinator to ensure this activity and reflection will be accepted. Reflections must be completed during and/or immediately after the end of a CAS activity): Click here to enter a date.
Is this the end of this CAS activity? Clicking no will mean you will be submitting subsequent reflections because this is a longer CAS activity. Choose an item.
How many hours was your activity? Select a number from the appropriate list; enter a zero for any CAS categories you did not address in the activity: Creativity: Choose an item. Action: Choose an item. Service: Choose an item.
Add your total number of Creativity, Action and Service Hours and select your number of hours for this activity from the list (no combination of creativity, action or service for any one activity may exceed 30 hours): Click Here to Choose Total Hours For This Activity
Why Is It CAS?
What Qualifies As Creativity, Action or Service? Creativity: arts, and other experiences that involve creative thinking; creativity involves the artistic such as painting, writing, learning a musical instrument and so on. Action: physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle; the expectation here is that you get your heart rate up and maybe break a sweat. Service: an unpaid and voluntary exchange that has a learning benefit; this cannot be part of any of your courses
Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) Reflection Form
CAS Hour Requirements: Remember, you require 150 hours over the course of the programme and approximately 50 hours in each of the three areas. No Diploma will be awarded if the hour requirements are not achieved.
71 of 106 Choose one or more of the areas your CAS activity fulfills. The box above provides a brief explanation of what qualifies as creativity, action or service; consult the CAS presentation or guide for further details (if this is a second reflection on the same activity, simply cut and paste your responses to this question from your first reflection):
Creativity: explain why this activity should qualify as creativity (1-2 sentences, leave blank if you did not address this area in your activity): Click here to enter text. Action: explain why this activity should qualify as action (1-2 sentences, leave blank if you did not address this area in your activity): Click here to enter text. Service: explain why this activity should qualify as service (1-2 sentences, leave blank if you did not address this area in your activity): Click here to enter text.
Challenging Yourself In New Ways Is this your first time doing an activity of this type (for example, is this the first time you have played football?) Choose an item.
If you chose no, explain how you will be challenging yourself in a new way: Click here to enter text.
Reflecting on the Learning Outcomes
Common Questions About Reflecting on the Learning Outcomes All of the learning outcomes must be addressed at least three times over the course of the programme, failure to do so will result in no credit for CAS and as a result no Diploma. How long should my reflections be? o It depends on the activity. If it was a one to two day activity, you should expect to write 3-4 sentences on EACH of the learning outcomes addressed in your activity. However, if it is an activity like being part of a team or a CAS project that lasts a month or more, each Learning Outcome reflection should be more like eight to ten sentences in length. Remember, an issue of global importance doesnt have to involve ending world poverty. Losing weight, for example, is addressing the global obesity epidemic . Remember also that ethical implications are not only how your activity affects the world around you but also the ethical decision making that occurs within the interpersonal relationships you have with those around you. How are you treating others, your opponents, how are they treating you, etc.? A broad definition of ethical implications is encouraged as part of this learning outcome.
72 of 106 Choose the learning outcomes you addressed in your CAS activity from the list below. You may choose anywhere from 1-8 learning outcomes.
1. CLICK HERE TO SELECT A LEARNING OUTCOME Reflect on the how this Learning Outcome was addressed in your CAS activity (read above to see how long your reflection should be): Click here to enter text.
2. CLICK HERE TO SELECT A LEARNING OUTCOME Reflect on the how this Learning Outcome was addressed in your CAS activity (read above to see how long your reflection should be): Click here to enter text.
3. CLICK HERE TO SELECT A LEARNING OUTCOME Reflect on the how this Learning Outcome was addressed in your CAS activity (read above to see how long your reflection should be): Click here to enter text.
4. CLICK HERE TO SELECT A LEARNING OUTCOME Reflect on the how this Learning Outcome was addressed in your CAS activity (read above to see how long your reflection should be): Click here to enter text.
5. CLICK HERE TO SELECT A LEARNING OUTCOME Reflect on the how this Learning Outcome was addressed in your CAS activity (read above to see how long your reflection should be): Click here to enter text.
6. CLICK HERE TO SELECT A LEARNING OUTCOME Reflect on the how this Learning Outcome was addressed in your CAS activity (read above to see how long your reflection should be): Click here to enter text.
7. CLICK HERE TO SELECT A LEARNING OUTCOME Reflect on the how this Learning Outcome was addressed in your CAS activity (read above to see how long your reflection should be): Click here to enter text.
8. CLICK HERE TO SELECT A LEARNING OUTCOME Reflect on the how this Learning Outcome was addressed in your CAS activity (read above to see how long your reflection should be): Click here to enter text.
The CAS Project Is this your CAS Project? Every CAS student is required to complete one CAS project during the two years of the programme: Choose an item.
If this is your CAS Project, enter which aspects of C, A or S are part of this activity (minimum of two): Click here to enter text. Common CAS Project Questions Is the CAS Project part of my 150 hours? Yes What are the unique features of a CAS project: o it must be collaborative in nature (working with others) o It must involve at least two of the three areas of creativity, service and action. 73 of 106 Final CAS Reflection Upon completing your CAS hours and activities, you will be required to complete one final reflection. Your reflection will involve a ten paragraph response.
In your first paragraph you are to reflect on your CAS experiences and the corresponding lessons learned. In your next eight paragraphs you will address how, in general, you have achieved each of the eight CAS learning outcomes (one paragraph per outcome, outcomes are listed below). Finally, write one short summary paragraph explaining why, in the context of the aims of CAS (listed below), you believe you should have your CAS coordinator and advisor check-off that you have completed the CAS component of the Diploma Programme.
LEARNING OUTCOMES Increased their awareness of their own strengths and areas for growth: They are able to see themselves as individuals with various skills and abilities, some more developed than others, and understand that they can make choices about how they wish to move forward. Undertaken New Challenges: A new challenge maybe an unfamiliar activity, or an extension to an existing one. Planned and initiated activities: Planning and initiation will often be in collaboration with others. It can be shown in activities that are part of larger projects, for example, ongoing school activities in the local community, as well as in small student-led activities. This is where you demonstrate your leadership capabilities and learn what is means to be a leader. Worked collaboratively with others (the CAS project): Collaboration can be shown in many different activities, such as team sports, playing music in a band, or helping in a kindergarten. At least one project, involving collaboration and the integration of at least two of creativity, action and service, is required. Shown perseverance and commitment in their activities: At a minimum, this implies attending regularly and accepting a share of the responsibility for dealing with problems that arise in the course of activities. Engaged with issues of global importance: Students may be involved in international projects but there are many global issues that can be acted upon locally or nationally (for example, environmental concerns, caring for the elderly). Considered the ethical implications of their actions: Ethical decisions arise in almost any CAS activity (for example, on the sports field, in musical composition, in relationships with others involved in service activities). Evidence of thinking about ethical issues can be shown in various ways, including journal entries and conversations with CAS advisers. Developed new skills: As with new challenges, new skills may be shown in activities that the student has not previously undertaken, or in increased expertise in an established area.
AIMS OF CAS real, purposeful activities, with significant outcomes personal challengetasks must extend the student and be achievable in scope thoughtful consideration, such as planning, reviewing progress, reporting reflection on outcomes and personal learning.
74 of 106 Final Reflection Prompts
Creativity: Before we complete your CAS I would like you to complete the following.
As you may be aware the description for the creativity component in CAS is: "arts, and other experiences that involve creative thinking." As part of a typed written response that is no fewer than 250 words, explain how the activities you have allocated as "creativity" would fall under the description noted above.
Please post your response to Managebac as a new activity with zero hours allocated and name it, "final creativity reflection."
Upon satisfactory completion of this, I will be able to complete your CAS.
Action: Before we complete your CAS I would like you to complete the following.
As you may be aware the description for the action component in CAS is: "physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle, complementing academic work elsewhere in the Diploma Programme. As part of a typed written response that is no fewer than 250 words, explain how the activities you have allocated as "action" would fall under the description noted above.
Please post your response to Managebac as a new activity with zero hours allocated and name it, "final creativity reflection."
Upon satisfactory completion of this, I will be able to complete your CAS.
Service: Before we complete your CAS I would like you to complete the following.
As you may be aware the description for the action component in CAS is: an unpaid and voluntary exchange that has a learning benefit for the student. The rights, dignity and autonomy of all those involved are respected. As part of a typed written response that is no fewer than 250 words, explain how the activities you have allocated as "service" would fall under the description noted above.
Please post your response to Managebac as a new activity with zero hours allocated and name it, "final creativity reflection."
Upon satisfactory completion of this, I will be able to complete your CAS.
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Learning Outcomes Reflection: As you may be aware, the most important component of CAS is addressing the learning outcomes. For a variety of reasons your reflections have not adequately demonstrated this. As a result, in order to have CAS approved so you can obtain your diploma, you will need to complete a final reflection. In this reflection you will need to explain how, over the course of the CAS programme, you have fully addressed and met each of the eight learning outcomes. You will do this by writing a minimum 200- word response for EACH of the eight outcomes. Your final reflection will be emailed to me as a Word document by Sunday, May 6.
increased their awareness of their own strengths and areas for growth: They are able to see themselves as individuals with various skills and abilities, some more developed than others, and understand that they can make choices about how they wish to move forward. undertaken new challenges: A new challenge maybe an unfamiliar activity, or an extension to an existing one. planned and initiated activities: Planning and initiation will often be in collaboration with others. It can be shown in activities that are part of larger projects, for example, ongoing school activities in the local community, as well as in small student-led activities. This is where you demonstrate your leadership capabilities and learn what is means to be a leader (leadership activity). worked collaboratively with others: Collaboration can be shown in many different activities, such as team sports, playing music in a band, or helping in a kindergarten. At least one project, involving collaboration and the integration of at least two of creativity, action and service, is required. shown perseverance and commitment in their activities: At a minimum, this implies attending regularly and accepting a share of the responsibility for dealing with problems that arise in the course of activities. engaged with issues of global importance: Students may be involved in international projects but there are many global issues that can be acted upon locally or nationally (for example, environmental concerns, caring for the elderly). considered the ethical implications of their actions: Ethical decisions arise in almost any CAS activity (for example, on the sports field, in musical composition, in relationships with others involved in service activities). Evidence of thinking about ethical issues can be shown in various ways, including journal entries and conversations with CAS advisers. developed new skills: As with new challenges, new skills may be shown in activities that the student has not previously undertaken, or in increased expertise in an established area.
76 of 106 Getting Started DP Student - 4 77 of 106 Accessing Your Account Signing In After receiving your welcome email and setting your password, you can login to your ManageBac account at your school's address (e.g. http://yourschool.ManageBac.com). On the login screen, you will see the following fields: Log in with your email address and the password you've set. DP Student - 5 78 of 106 Resetting your Password If you are unable to login but do have an account, click "I forgot my password" and enter your email address to reset. Note: If you are not receiving welcome emails, make sure to check your spam folder. If the problem persists, check with your coordinator to ensure you have been added to the system with the correct e-mail address. DP Student - 6 79 of 106 Navigating through ManageBac Via the Tabs You can navigate through ManageBac by clicking on the tabs in the top navigation bar. You can also easily access our PDF guide from the right menu of your Dashboard and by clicking Help in green. The Dashboard tab allows you to view upcoming events & deadlines across your IB groups & classes. The Profile tab is where you can post your photo and manage your contact information. This section is only visible to school staff. The IB Manager (Program) tab is where all of your IB functionality is located. Under the IB Manager tab, you'll be able to add CAS activities, submit EE proposal information and complete your Diploma plan worksheet. The Classes tab is where you'll be able to view and join your classes. Class groups allow you to view assignments, grades, and Internal Assessment requirements for your subject. The Groups tab is where you'll be able to join groups. There are five group types, which are customized for specific purposes: CAS Project, Homeroom, Sports Team, Club or Society, and Other. The My Account tab allows you to update your e-mail address and password. DP Student - 7 80 of 106 The IB Manager tab Hovering your cursor over the IB Manager tab will allow you to access the worksheets, which have been activated for you. DP Student - 8 81 of 106 Updating your E-mail address and Password Via the My Account Tab Once you have logged in successfully, you can easily update your e-mail address and password under the My Account tab. You can also update your e-mail address and other contact information by accessing Edit Contact Info under the Profile tab. DP Student - 9 82 of 106 DP Student - 10 83 of 106 Updating Your Profile Page Profile Tab Via the Profile tab, you can see the following: (1) Personal Info: You can edit your personal information here. This information is linked to your Plans worksheet, which will be used for your exam registration in your final year. To edit, hover your mouse over the title "Personal Info" and click the Edit button which appears. You will only be able to edit this information if a coordinator has not locked your workseet. (2) Academic Progress: You can review grades & feedback of your completed assignments and monitor upcoming assignments for each of your classes. (3) Side tabs: These tabs are detailed in the next section. DP Student - 11 84 of 106 Side Tabs on the Profile page (1) Summary: This tab is the default-landing page of your profile. This page displays your Personal Information, Academic Progress, and your IB Diploma Progress. (2) Reflections: This tab is where you set your goals for each term. (3) Reports: Any reports generated for you will be displayed in this tab. (4) Portfolio: All files submitted by you for your class assignments, Extended Essay, ToK, and CAS deadlines will be organized in this tab as shown in the example below: DP Student - 12 85 of 106 DP Student - 13 86 of 106 CAS DP Student - 14 87 of 106 Adding CAS Activities Via the CAS Tab You can add CAS activities from your CAS worksheet by clicking Add CAS Activity on the right. DP Student - 15 88 of 106 You can enter your activity details, including the: - Activity name and description - Activity type and hours (if your coordinator has enabled tracking hours) DP Student - 16 89 of 106 - Location (In-School or Out-of-School) - Start and end dates - Activity supervisor information (when yourequest review, an email will be sent to the address they have entered prompting the supervisor to submit a review on ManageBac) - Targeted learning outcomes After adding an activity, it is automatically submitted to the CAS advisor or coordinator for approval. Via Groups Tab Students can also add an activity to their CAS worksheet by joining an activity or group under the Groups tab. DP Student - 17 90 of 106 DP Student - 18 91 of 106 Working on CAS Reflections Completing Reflections Once your CAS activity has been approved, you can start uploading reflections to your activities by clicking Add New Reflection on the right. You can also add journals, websites, YouTube videos, photos and files under the Reflections tab. These must be linked to one or more of your targeted learning outcomes. DP Student - 19 92 of 106 Viewing Your Reflections After adding reflections to your activity, you can access the Reflections tab on the side to view your entries. DP Student - 20 93 of 106 You can also view all of your reflections from all of your activities on a single page by accessing View All Reflections from your CAS Worksheet. You will be able to (1) sort your reflections by date & time or by activity, and (2) filter reflections by learning outcomes. DP Student - 21 94 of 106 DP Student - 22 95 of 106 Completing CAS Questions Via the CAS Questions tab The CAS Questions tab will be activated as soon as your CAS Coordinator prepares the questions for you. Once CAS Questions have been created, you can access the CAS Questions tab on the right side of your activity page. Make sure to click Save Changes at the bottom whenever you update this page. DP Student - 23 96 of 106 Obtaining Supervisor Reviews Via the CAS Page Once you've finished your activity and added all of your evidence, you can either click Request Supervisor Review, which will send an email to your activity supervisor allowing them to complete your activity review online, or CAS Completion Form, which will create a PDF that you can print and have signed by your activity supervisor. Note: Once your activity has been marked Complete, you will not be able to add additional evidence or update any of the details, so you will only want to click Request Supervisor Review once youve finished documenting your activity. DP Student - 24 97 of 106 Editing & Deleting Your Activity From the Activity Page To edit or delete an activity, hover your cursor over the title of the activity, and click Edit to edit or the trashcan icon to delete the activity. DP Student - 25 98 of 106 Joining Activity Groups Via the Groups Tab Under the Groups tab, you'll be able to see a list of groups that have been created. Clicking Join this Group will add you to the Members roster, and allow you to easily add this activity group to your CAS worksheet. It will also allow you to post new messages and view events and photos specific to that group. DP Student - 26 99 of 106 Extended Essay DP Student - 27 100 of 106 Choosing Your EE Topic Via the EE Tab Under your EE tab, you'll be able to setup your EE worksheet. First, enter your topic, subject and research question. You can do this by entering your details, or, if your details have already been entered, hovering your mouse over the question and clicking Edit. DP Student - 28 101 of 106 Make sure to select your supervisor from the dropdown menu. If you don't see your EE supervisor on the list, you'll have to wait until your EE coordinator has added them to the system. After saving your project, you'll be able to see upcoming EE deadlines and To Dos, which you can check off. Once your EE topic has been approved, you'll see the updated status below. You'll also be able to submit your outlines, drafts and final copies under the EE Documents section. DP Student - 29 102 of 106 DP Student - 30 103 of 106 Under the Message Board, you'll be able to leave messages for your EE supervisor. This is ideal for posting questions and scheduling meetings. DP Student - 31 104 of 106 Submitting your Final Extended Essay Copy Via the EE Tab When your EE is done, you can submit it directly to your EE & IB Coordinator by clicking on the Final EE Deadline in blue. Next, youll be able to upload your final EE copy by clicking Choose File. DP Student - 32 105 of 106 Once you have uploaded your EE, you will see your submitted file(s) below the Dropbox heading. DP Student - 33 106 of 106