Grade 9 & 10

The CASL Program Outline

The CASL program is designed to provide balance to and complement the academic program. It is through engagement with a broad range of experiences and opportunities inside and beyond the classroom that students develop skills and values to prepare themselves for the future.

Unlike in Grade 7 and 8 where CASL is primarily embedded within the curriculum, the grade 9 and 10 program requires students to engage with a variety of experiences outside of school hours to encourage them to demonstrate greater independence and take ownership for their learning.

Students keep a record of their experiences using an online platform called ManageBac and must compose ongoing written reflections throughout the 18 month program. The platform tracks engagement, progress and growth. Using the data provided by ManageBac, students and parents will receive regular updates about their progress in school reports.

CASL Program Fulfillment Criteria

• The CASL program commences at the start of Grade 9 and concludes at the end of the first term of grade 10. The minimum period is 18 months.

• Students are expected to spend time each week participating in CASL activities. This includes the time spent actually undertaking CASL experiences, recording evidence of participation and reflecting on your experiences.

• There should be a balance between the three core strands throughout the program (Creativity, Activity and Service).

• Students must demonstrate all seven learning outcomes and five Lasallian Values throughout the program.

• Students must support two school based service CCAs during the 18 month program.

• Students must attend the Outdoor Education trips and complete the supporting program.

• Complete three formal CASL interviews at the end of each term.

The Responsibilities of the CASL Student

The successful completion of the CASL program in grades 9 and 10 is dependent on personal engagement and ongoing commitment in order to meet the fulfillment criteria.

Students need to continually reflect on their experiences and maintain their CASL portfolio using ManageBac. Using evidence from the portfolio, students will demonstrate achievement of the seven learning outcomes and that they have met the requirements to attain the NYAA bronze award.

CASL students are expected to:

• Approach CASL with a proactive attitude

• Develop a clear understanding of CASL expectations and the purpose of CASL

• Explore personal values, attitudes and attributes

• Determine personal SMART goals

• Discuss plans for CASL experiences with their tutor and/or CAS coordinator

• Take part in a variety of experiences, whether school supported or self-initiated

• Become more aware of personal interests, skills and talents and observe how these evolve throughout the CASL program

• Maintain a CASL portfolio and keep records of CASL experiences including evidence of achievement of the seven CASL learning outcomes

• Understand the reflection process and identify suitable opportunities to reflect on CASL experiences

• Demonstrate accomplishments within their CASL program

• Communicate with their tutor and/or CASL coordinator in formal and informal meetings

• Ensure a suitable balance between creativity, activity and service in their CAS program