MYP
As an IB school all students are expected to actively participate in the CAS programme. A wide range of experiences are offered and students are encouraged to pursue their interests and try new experiences. Through active involvement in the CAS programme, students will embody the attributes of the IB Learner Profile and meet the 7 Learning Outcomes which are a requirement of the MYP.
The Learning Outcomes are:
Become more aware of your own strengths and areas for growth
Undertake challenges that develop new skills
Discuss, evaluate and plan activities
Persevere in action
Work collaboratively with others
Develop international mindedness through global engagement, multilingualism and intercultural understanding
Consider the ethical implications of your actions
We recognise that many students are involved in CAS experiences outside of school. These can count towards their CAS commitment but we encourage students to participate in the school's CAS programme.
Service learning
Service experiences in CAS can be approached using a service learning model. Service learning is the development and application of knowledge and skills towards meeting an identified community need. In this research-based approach, students undertake service initiatives often related to topics studied previously in the curriculum, utilizing skills, understandings and values developed in these studies. Service learning builds upon students’ prior knowledge and background, enabling them to make links between their academic disciplines and their service experiences.
Service as Action
Service as Action is fundamental to the MYP. Service as Action encourages students to reflect on what they are learning in the classroom and then take action to benefit the community. Service as Action seeks to develop caring members of the community that work to benefit the community or environment and who care about the world we share. Service as Action will also address one of the UN's SDGs.
Examples of Service as Action in the West Island School MYP:
English - students study a novel about education inequality and then volunteer their time or organise a stationery drive for IBEL. This addresses SDG 4 and 10.
Individuals and societies - Year 9 students learn about domestic energy conservation and waste disposal. For their action they build a sustainable house. This addresses SDG 7 and 11.
Technology - Year 7 students learn about sustainable products and then host a 'Sustainable Swap Shop' where they swap reusable but unwanted items. This addresses SDG 12.
Using the CAS stages
Using the CAS stages is the recommended approach for students engaging in service experiences. All forms of service should involve investigation, preparation and action that meets an identified need. Reflection on significant experiences throughout informs problem-solving and choices; demonstration allows for sharing of what has taken place. The CAS stages specific to service learning offer students a helpful and supportive approach. As students progress through each of these stages, they can draw upon the skills and knowledge gained from their academic subjects to support their experiences.
Year 9 Project Based Learning
Students develop their ATL skills through a unit of inquiry that explores environmental issues in global contexts. Students are encouraged to answer the question 'Is there a problem with plastic?' in creative and imaginative ways. To help them answer the question, they conduct a beach clean, meet with a representative from Plastic Free Seas and participate in a 'service day market' where they raise awareness of issues around sustainability and raise money for local causes.
Year 9 Community Project
This collaborative service learning project is the culmination of the students' MYP CAS experience. Students use the skills developed throughout the PYP and MYP, and honed during the Project Based Learning unit to deliver their own, student-initiated service project. Students identify a need within the community and use one of the four approaches to service to make a measurable impact.