150 IB CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) Ideas - TutorChase (2024)

The Creativity, Activity, and Service component of the IB Diploma programme is designed to offer IB students a chance to explore their passions, gain valuable skills, and make a positive impact on their communities. However, with 150 required hours to complete, it can be overwhelming to find the right CAS activities. In this article, we've compiled a list of unique and practical CAS ideas that will help you meet your requirements and make the most of this opportunity.

Whether you're interested in pursuing creative endeavours, physical challenges, or community service projects, our list has something for everyone. We recognise the challenges of balancing academics and extracurricular activities, but we believe that CAS can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience that offers much more than just meeting diploma requirements.

Choosing the right IB CAS activity is essential to make the most of this opportunity while also fulfilling your diploma requirements. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right CAS activity for you:

1. Follow your passions: Choose an activity that aligns with your interests and passions. You're more likely to enjoy the experience and be motivated to continue it.

2. Consider your strengths: Choose an activity that allows you to utilise your skills and strengths. This can help you excel in the activity and gain valuable experience.

3. Look for a challenge: Choose an activity that challenges you and pushes you out of your comfort zone. This can help you grow and develop new skills.

4. Think about the impact: Choose an activity that allows you to make a positive impact on your community or others. This can help you develop a sense of responsibility and empathy.

5. Get advice: Talk to your CAS coordinator, teachers, or an IB tutor for advice and suggestions. They can help you find the right activity and provide support along the way.

Remember, the goal of CAS is not just to fulfil your diploma requirements but also to gain valuable skills and experiences that can benefit you in the future. So, take the time to choose the right activity and make the most of this opportunity.

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB Study Notes, IB Past Papers and IB Practice Questions, developed by expert IB teachers and examiners!

Now, read on to explore our list of IB CAS ideas developed by IB experts, examiners and online tutors!

50 Creativity Ideas

1. Creating a painting or drawing series - Develop a series of paintings or drawings that explore a particular theme or idea. Experiment with different styles, mediums, and techniques to create a cohesive collection.

2. Designing and sewing a fashion collection - Plan and design a collection of clothing, accessories, or jewellery. Select fabrics, create patterns, and sew garments. Consider creating a cohesive visual identity for the collection.

3. Learning calligraphy and creating art with it - Learn calligraphy through books, online tutorials or courses, and practice with various tools and materials. Use your skills to create visually appealing pieces of art, such as quotes or poems.

4. Developing a website with custom graphics and designs - Choose a website builder or code from scratch, create custom graphics and designs, and develop a visually appealing and functional website.

5. Learning to create digital art on a tablet or computer - Learn to use digital art software such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, and experiment with creating different styles of digital art using various tools and techniques.

6. Creating a stop-motion animation film - Plan a story, create characters and sets, and use stop-motion techniques to animate your film. Use software such as iStopMotion or Dragonframe to help with the process. An IB Physics tutor could guide students in understanding the physics behind motion, timing, and sequencing, which are crucial for creating realistic animations.

7. Making a short film or documentary - Plan a story or topic, write a script, cast actors or interview subjects, and film the scenes. Edit the footage to create a final product.

8. Writing a series of short stories or a novella - Choose a theme or concept, brainstorm story ideas, create characters and settings, and write a series of stories that connect or build on each other. An IB English tutor can provide valuable guidance and feedback on this project, helping to refine your writing and storytelling skills.

9. Creating and recording a music album - Write lyrics, compose music, rehearse with musicians or use software to create a solo project, and record a full-length album in a professional or home studio.

10. Writing and producing a podcast - Choose a topic, plan episodes, record and edit audio, and publish your podcast online using platforms such as Anchor or Buzzsprout.

11. Designing and creating a graphic novel - Plan a story, create characters and settings, and use graphic design software to create a visually stunning graphic novel.

12. Creating a photo series or collection - Choose a theme or concept, and take a series of photographs that explore it. Experiment with different angles, lighting, and compositions to create a visually striking collection.

13. Building a custom guitar or instrument - Research and plan the design, choose materials, and assemble a custom guitar or instrument. Consider the sound quality and playability of the final product.

14. Designing and constructing a unique piece of furniture - Sketch out a design, choose materials, and use woodworking tools to create a custom piece of furniture. Consider the form, function, and aesthetic of the final product.

15. Creating a cookbook with original recipes - Develop a series of original recipes, test and refine them, and compile them into a cookbook with photos and descriptions of each dish.

16. Learning and practicing hand-lettering or typography - Learn the art of hand-lettering or typography through books, online tutorials, or courses, and create visually appealing designs using your new skills.

17. Creating a custom greeting card collection - Use your own designs and graphics to create a collection of unique and personalised greeting cards.

18. Building and designing your own computer - Research and choose the necessary components, assemble the computer, and customise the design to your preferences.

19. Creating a unique board game or card game - Plan and develop a unique game concept, design game pieces, and test and refine the game mechanics. This activity requires you to brainstorm game mechanics, which can involve probability, strategy, logical thinking and an IB Maths tutor can help you with that quite well.

20. Painting or designing a custom skateboard or longboard - Use paint, markers, or graphic design software to create a unique and personalised design on a skateboard or longboard. Experiment with different colours and styles to create a visually striking design.

21. Creating custom stickers or decals - Use your own designs and graphics to create custom stickers or decals using a vinyl cutter or printing software. Consider the size, shape, and material of the final product.

22. Learning and practicing watercolour painting - Learn and practice watercolour painting techniques, and create a series of visually stunning watercolour pieces. Experiment with different brushes, paper, and techniques to create unique effects.

23. Creating a unique 3D-printed sculpture or object - Use 3D printing software to design and print a custom sculpture or object. Consider the functionality and aesthetic of the final product.

24. Designing and creating a set of home decor items - Use your own designs and graphics to create a set of unique and personalised home decor items such as wall art, throw pillows, or curtains. Consider the colours, patterns, and materials that will complement your space.

25. Creating a unique series of handmade candles - Develop a signature scent or series of scents, and hand-pour candles using natural materials and quality wax. Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and colours to create a visually appealing collection.

26. Designing and creating a custom lighting fixture - Sketch out a design, choose materials, and use electrical wiring and lighting components to create a custom lighting fixture. Consider the size, shape, and placement of the fixture.

27. Making a custom quilt or tapestry - Choose a design or pattern, select fabrics, and use sewing techniques to create a custom quilt or tapestry. Consider the colours, patterns, and textures of the final product.

28. Creating a unique series of handmade soap or bath products - Develop a signature scent or series of scents, and hand-make soaps or bath products using natural materials and quality ingredients. Experiment with different colours, scents, and packaging to create a visually appealing collection. An IB Chemistry tutor could offer invaluable guidance on the scientific aspects, ensuring that the products are safe, effective, and scientifically sound.

29. Designing and creating a custom wallpaper or wall art - Use your own designs and graphics to create a custom wallpaper or wall art using printing or painting techniques. Consider the colours, patterns, and scale of the final product.

30. Making a unique series of handmade bookmarks or bookmark holders - Use your own designs and graphics to create a series of unique and personalised bookmarks or bookmark holders using materials such as leather or felt. Consider the size, shape, and functionality of the final product.

31. Creating a custom stained glass piece or window - Plan a design, choose glass colours and textures, and use glass-cutting and soldering techniques to create a custom stained glass piece or window. Consider the design, colours, and placement of the final product.

32. Designing and creating a custom handbag or purse - Sketch out a design, select fabrics and hardware, and use sewing techniques to create a custom handbag or purse. Consider the size, shape, and functionality of the final product.

33. Creating a unique series of handmade journals or notebooks - Use your own designs and graphics to create a series of unique and personalised journals or notebooks. Consider the size, binding, and paper quality of the final product.

34. Learning and practicing printmaking techniques - Learn printmaking techniques such as linocut or screenprinting, and create a series of visually appealing prints. Experiment with different colours, textures, and papers to create unique effects.

35. Creating a custom piece of jewellery - Sketch out a design, choose materials, and use jewellery-making techniques to create a custom piece of jewellery. Consider the style, size, and materials of the final product.

36. Creating a series of hand-drawn illustrations - Choose a theme or concept, and create a series of hand-drawn illustrations that explore it. Experiment with different styles, techniques, and mediums to create a visually cohesive collection.

37. Learning and practicing photography techniques - Learn photography techniques such as composition, lighting, and post-processing, and create a series of visually stunning photographs. Experiment with different genres, such as landscape or portrait photography.

38. Creating a unique series of hand-painted ceramics - Use ceramic paint and glaze to create a series of hand-painted ceramics such as mugs, plates, or vases. Consider the colours, patterns, and designs of the final products.

39. Designing and creating a custom mobile app - Plan and design a mobile app concept, and use app development software to create a functional and visually appealing app.

40. Creating a unique series of handmade leather goods - Use leatherworking techniques to create a series of handmade leather goods such as wallets, bags, or belts. Consider the materials, colours, and designs of the final products.

41. Learning and practicing woodturning techniques - Learn woodturning techniques such as spindle turning or bowl turning, and create a series of handmade woodturned objects. Experiment with different types of wood and finishes to create unique effects.

42. Creating a series of digital collages - Use digital design software to create a series of visually striking digital collages. Experiment with different textures, colours, and images to create unique effects.

43. Designing and creating a custom skateboard or longboard deck - Choose a design, use a CNC machine to cut and shape the deck, and use woodburning or painting techniques to create a visually appealing design.

44. Creating a unique series of handcrafted paper goods - Use paper crafting techniques such as origami or quilling to create a series of handmade paper goods such as greeting cards or wall art. Consider the colours, patterns, and designs of the final products.

45. Learning and practicing metalworking techniques - Learn metalworking techniques such as welding or jewellery-making, and create a series of handmade metal objects. Experiment with different metals and finishes to create unique effects.

46. Creating a series of hand-drawn or painted maps - Use cartography techniques to create a series of hand-drawn or painted maps. Experiment with different styles and mediums to create unique and visually appealing maps.

47. Designing and creating a custom set of clothing patterns - Use pattern-making techniques to create a series of custom clothing patterns. Experiment with different styles and designs to create a cohesive collection.

48. Creating a unique series of handcrafted toys or games - Use woodworking or sewing techniques to create a series of handmade toys or games. Consider the materials, colours, and designs of the final products.

49. Learning and practicing embroidery or cross-stitching techniques - Learn embroidery or cross-stitching techniques and create a series of visually appealing pieces such as wall art or clothing embellishments. Experiment with different colours and textures of thread to create unique effects.

50. Creating a series of hand-drawn or painted portraits - Choose a subject and create a series of hand-drawn or painted portraits that explore different styles, mediums, and techniques. Consider the composition, lighting, and mood of the final products.

IB CAS Creativity: Student painting

51. Basketball - Grab a ball, find a hoop, and shoot some hoops to improve your hand-eye coordination, cardiovascular fitness, and teamwork skills.

52. Soccer - Find a local soccer field, join a league or gather a group of friends, and play a game of soccer to improve your endurance, agility, and communication skills.

53. Tennis - Find a tennis court, grab a racket and some balls, and play a game of tennis to improve your hand-eye coordination, cardiovascular fitness, and agility.

54. Golf - Find a golf course, gather some clubs and balls, and work on your swing and accuracy to improve your balance, concentration, and patience.

55. Swimming - Find a pool or open water, put on your swimsuit, and swim laps or practice different strokes to improve your cardiovascular fitness, lung capacity, and overall body strength.

56. Martial arts - Join a local dojo or gym, learn different martial arts techniques and forms, and improve your physical fitness, discipline, and self-defence skills.

57. Volleyball - Find a net and a ball, gather a group of friends or join a league, and play a game of volleyball to improve your coordination, communication, and teamwork skills.

58. Surfing - Find a beach with waves, rent or purchase a surfboard, and learn how to ride the waves to improve your balance, core strength, and confidence.

59. Running - Lace up your running shoes, find a nearby trail or track, and go for a run to improve your cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and mental health.

60. Cycling - Find a bike, put on a helmet, and go for a ride on the road or on a trail to improve your cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and overall health.

61. Baseball - Grab a bat and a ball, find a field, and play a game of baseball to improve your hand-eye coordination, communication, and teamwork skills.

62. Football - Find a field, gather a group of friends, and play a game of football to improve your cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and agility.

63. Table Tennis - Find a table and some paddles and play a game of table tennis to improve your hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and concentration.

64. Badminton - Find a court, grab some rackets and a shuttleco*ck, and play a game of badminton to improve your cardiovascular fitness, hand-eye coordination, and reflexes.

65. Squash - Find a court, grab a racket and a ball, and play a game of squash to improve your cardiovascular fitness, hand-eye coordination, and agility.

66. Rugby - Find a field, gather a group of friends, and play a game of rugby to improve your cardiovascular fitness, strength, and teamwork skills.

67. Hockey - Find a field or an ice rink, grab a stick and a puck or ball, and play a game of hockey to improve your cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and teamwork skills.

68. Skiing - Find a ski resort or a snowy hill, rent or purchase skis, and hit the slopes to improve your balance, coordination, and overall physical fitness.

69. Snowboarding - Find a ski resort or a snowy hill, rent or purchase a snowboard, and hit the slopes to improve your balance, coordination, and overall physical fitness.

70. Ice Skating - Find an ice rink, rent or purchase skates, and skate around to improve your balance, coordination, and leg strength.

71. Roller Skating - Find a roller rink or a smooth surface, rent or purchase skates, and skate around to improve your balance, coordination, and leg strength.

72. Parkour - Find a park or an urban area, and practice parkour movements such as jumping, climbing, and balancing to improve your overall physical fitness, agility, and creativity.

73. Surfing - Find a beach with waves, rent or purchase a surfboard, and learn how to ride the waves to improve your balance, core strength, and confidence.

74. Kiteboarding - Find a beach with wind and waves, rent or purchase a kiteboard, and learn how to ride the waves while controlling a kite to improve your balance, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness.

75. Kayaking - Find a body of water, rent or purchase a kayak, and paddle around to improve your upper body strength, cardiovascular fitness, and outdoor skills.

76. Canoeing - Find a body of water, rent or purchase a canoe, and paddle around to improve your upper body strength, cardiovascular fitness, and outdoor skills.

77. Rafting - Find a river, join a guided tour or gather a group of friends, and navigate rapids and currents on a raft to improve your teamwork, outdoor skills, and adrenaline rush.

78. Scuba Diving - Find a diving school, take a course, and dive underwater to explore marine life and improve your breathing techniques, underwater skills, and mental focus.

79. Snorkelling - Find a body of water, put on a snorkel and fins, and explore underwater life to improve your breathing techniques, outdoor skills, and relaxation.

80. Rock Climbing - Find an indoor or outdoor climbing gym, gather necessary equipment such as a harness and climbing shoes, and climb vertical walls to improve your strength, endurance, and problem-solving skills.

81. Bouldering - Find an indoor or outdoor bouldering gym, gather necessary equipment such as climbing shoes and chalk, and climb

82. Archery - Find a local archery range or club, rent or purchase equipment such as a bow and arrows, and practice aiming and shooting to improve your focus, concentration, and upper body strength.

83. Fencing - Find a local fencing club, rent or purchase equipment such as a sword and protective gear, and practice attacking and defending to improve your coordination, reaction time, and mental focus.

84. Triathlon - Train for and participate in a triathlon, which involves swimming, cycling, and running, to improve your overall physical fitness, endurance, and mental toughness.

85. CrossFit - Join a CrossFit gym, participate in group workouts that combine weightlifting, cardio, and other exercises, and improve your strength, agility, and overall fitness.

86. Ultimate Frisbee - Gather a group of friends or join a league and play a game of ultimate frisbee to improve your cardiovascular fitness, hand-eye coordination, and teamwork skills.

87. Rowing - Find a rowing club or gym, rent or purchase equipment such as a rowing machine or a boat, and row to improve your upper body strength, cardiovascular fitness, and mental focus.

88. Pole Dancing - Join a pole dancing studio or follow online tutorials and learn different pole dancing techniques to improve your strength, flexibility, and confidence.

89. Trampoline - Find a trampoline park or purchase a trampoline, and practice jumping and flipping to improve your cardiovascular fitness, balance, and coordination.

90. Skateboarding - Find a skatepark or a smooth surface, rent or purchase a skateboard, and practice tricks and movements to improve your balance, coordination, and creativity.

91. Cross-country skiing - Find a ski resort or a snowy trail, rent or purchase cross-country skis, and ski to improve your cardiovascular fitness, balance, and coordination.

92. Orienteering - Find a local orienteering club and participate in a race or practice using a map and compass to navigate through unfamiliar terrain and improve your outdoor skills.

93. Disc Golf - Find a disc golf course, grab some frisbees, and play a round of disc golf to improve your hand-eye coordination, cardiovascular fitness, and strategy skills.

94. Boxing - Join a boxing gym or hire a personal trainer, and practice different boxing techniques to improve your strength, endurance, and self-defence skills.

95. Jiu-jitsu - Join a jiu-jitsu gym, learn different grappling techniques, and improve your physical fitness, coordination, and self-defence skills.

96. Horseback Riding - Find a local stable, take lessons or go on a guided trail ride, and improve your balance, coordination, and outdoor skills while bonding with a horse.

97. Skate skiing - Find a ski resort or a groomed trail, rent or purchase skate skis, and ski to improve your cardiovascular fitness, balance, and coordination.

98. Sailing - Find a sailing school or club, rent or purchase a sailboat, and sail on the water to improve your coordination, outdoor skills, and sense of adventure.

99. Water Polo - Find a local pool, gather a group of friends or join a league, and play a game of water polo to improve your cardiovascular fitness, teamwork skills, and water proficiency.

100. Skateboarding (longboarding) - Find a longboard and a smooth surface, and practice cruising and carving to improve your balance, coordination, and outdoor skills.

IB CAS Activity: Students playing basketball

50 Service Ideas

101. Volunteering at a local charity or non-profit organisation - Volunteering at a charity shop or non-profit can be a great way to give back to the community and support those in need.

102. Fundraising for a cause you care about - Fundraising for a cause you care about can be a fun and rewarding way to make a difference. You can raise funds through events or sponsorships.

103. Environmental conservation work - Helping to protect the environment by participating in beach clean-ups or planting trees can make a positive impact on the planet. An IB Biology tutor can offer expert advice on your environmental conservation project.

104. Mentoring or coaching younger people - Mentoring or coaching younger people can be a fulfilling way to make a difference in someone’s life and help them develop important skills.

105. Assisting with events or programs at your local religious institution - Volunteering at a local religious institution can be a way to help the community and build meaningful relationships.

106. Advocating for a cause - Advocating for a cause you care about can help raise awareness and make a positive impact on society.

107. Researching a social problem - Researching a social problem can help identify areas that need improvement and guide future efforts to address the issue.

108. Animal welfare - Volunteering at an animal shelter can help provide care and support to animals in need.

109. Visiting and helping elderly people - Visiting and helping elderly people can bring companionship and joy to those who may be lonely or isolated.

110. Cleaning up a public space - Cleaning up a public space, such as a park or beach, can help beautify the area and make it more enjoyable for others.

111. Volunteering at a homeless shelter - Volunteering at a homeless shelter can help provide essential support and resources to those who are struggling.

112. Supporting a political campaign - Supporting a political campaign can help bring attention to important issues and promote change.

113. Assisting with disaster relief efforts - Assisting with disaster relief efforts can help provide support and aid to those affected by natural disasters.

114. Volunteering at a hospital or hospice - Volunteering at a hospital or hospice can provide comfort and support to patients and their families during difficult times.

115. Tutoring or mentoring disadvantaged youth - Tutoring or mentoring disadvantaged youth can help them develop important skills and achieve their goals.

116. Supporting mental health awareness - Supporting mental health awareness can help reduce stigma and promote resources for those struggling with mental health issues.

117. Supporting LGBTQ+ rights - Supporting LGBTQ+ rights can help promote equality and create a more accepting and inclusive society.

118. Donating blood - Donating blood can help save lives and support those in need of medical treatment.

119. Supporting a literacy program - Supporting a literacy program can help provide essential reading and writing skills to those who may not have access to them.

120. Volunteering at a soup kitchen or food bank - Volunteering at a soup kitchen or food bank can help provide meals and essential resources to those in need.

121. Participating in a community garden - Participating in a community garden can help promote sustainable living and provide fresh produce to those who may not have access to it.

122. Helping with refugee resettlement - Helping with refugee resettlement can provide support and resources to those who have been displaced and are in need of assistance.

123. Supporting women’s rights - Supporting women’s rights can help promote equality and create a more inclusive society for all.

124. Participating in a mentorship program for at-risk youth - Participating in a mentorship program for at-risk youth can help provide support and guidance to those who may be struggling.

125. Supporting clean water initiatives - Supporting clean water initiatives can help provide access to clean drinking water and promote sustainability.

126. Support refugees and immigrants - Volunteer at a refugee centre, language exchange programme or migrant support group to help newcomers integrate into the community.

127. Pet therapy - Take your dog to visit elderly people in care homes, or children in hospitals or schools to bring some joy and company to those who may be feeling lonely.

128. Care packages for the homeless - Create care packages containing essentials like water bottles, blankets, hygiene products, and snacks to give to homeless people in your area.

129. Teaching English - Volunteer as an English teacher to refugees, migrants or international students who may be struggling to integrate into the community due to language barriers.

130. Social media for non-profits - Help local non-profit organizations by managing their social media accounts, creating posts, and increasing awareness of their cause and events.

131. Volunteering at a community centre - Help run programs or events at a community centre, such as youth clubs, art classes, or workshops for seniors.

132. Fundraising for disaster relief - Organise a fundraiser to support disaster relief efforts around the world, such as providing aid after natural disasters or refugee crises.

133. Visiting the elderly - Visit elderly people in care homes or their own homes, to provide company and conversation, or to help with simple tasks around the house.

134. Supporting people with disabilities - Volunteer with a local organisation that supports people with disabilities, such as helping out at an adaptive sports event or assisting with daily tasks.

135. Blood donation - Donate blood regularly to help save lives and support local hospitals and medical centres.

136. Local park clean-up - Organise a group to clean up a local park, removing litter and debris, and planting new flowers or trees to beautify the area.

137. Providing meals to the homeless - Volunteer at a soup kitchen or prepare and distribute meals to homeless people in your area.

138. Supporting mental health - Volunteer with a local organisation that supports mental health, such as providing counselling or resources for those struggling with mental illness.

139. Supporting people with addictions - Volunteer with a local organisation that supports people with addictions, such as providing counselling or resources for those struggling with substance abuse.

140. Habitat for Humanity - Volunteer with Habitat for Humanity to help build affordable housing for those in need.

141. Providing support to families with sick children - Volunteer with a local organisation that supports families with sick children, such as providing meals or transportation to medical appointments.

142. Community gardening - Join a community garden, help maintain the space and help grow fresh produce for local food banks.

143. Supporting victims of domestic abuse - Volunteer with a local organisation that supports victims of domestic abuse, such as providing resources or safe places to stay.

144. Environmental education - Teach others about environmental issues by organising educational workshops or presentations, or create informational materials to distribute in your community.

145. Disaster preparedness - Help prepare your community for potential natural disasters by organising emergency drills, creating preparedness kits, and spreading awareness.

146. Supporting animal welfare - Volunteer with a local animal shelter or rescue organisation to provide care, exercise and socialisation for animals.

147. Supporting education - Volunteer with a local school or educational program to help tutor, mentor or provide classroom assistance to students.

148. Supporting refugees in finding employment - Volunteer with a local organisation that supports refugees in finding work, such as providing job training or networking opportunities.

149. Supporting veterans - Volunteer with a local organisation that supports veterans, such as providing resources, companionship or assistance with medical care.

150. Assisting refugees - Partner with a local organisation that helps refugees adjust to their new lives in your community by providing language skills, cultural training, or job opportunities.

IB CAS Service: Students volunteering

Participating in CAS activities provides students with valuable experiences that go beyond meeting diploma requirements. Engaging in a creative pursuit, a physical challenge, or a community service project can help students develop essential skills and make a positive impact on their communities. It is an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Use our suggestions as well as our article on IB CAS Project Ideas to find the right activities for you, and enjoy the experience while making the most of this opportunity. Remember, CAS is not only about fulfilling diploma requirements but also preparing students for future university and career success.