pavlestevic

[pavlestevic]

Pecka weekend

Activity title: CAS camp

Activity type: combined

Duration: 25-27.4.2025.

~ Activity description ~

On Friday morning our class gathered in front of to school to go on our CAS camp in Visitor Center Pecka. We arrived in cozy complex in nature, ready to connect as a class.

On first day, we had psychology workshop on happiness, which reminded us to cherish people and hobbies that make us happy. When asked about a person that causes most joy to us, more often than not, answers were either family members or classmates - our second family. Also, we helped our hostess prepare lunch, and ate all together. In the evening we played guitar, sang karaoke, played some games and watched a movie.

Second day was reserved for 16-ish km long walk in the nature. Although it rained for a bit, it did not spoil our day. Prepared with umbrellas and raincoats, we turned rain into fun experience. We went to see beautiful springs of river Sana. In the evening we talked about everything and nothing, sang, danced, and then watched NBA.

On Sunday morning we got ready and headed back home.

~ Reflection ~

That weekend was an amazing reality-get-away. We had a chance to enjoy each other's company. Spending time in nature offered a chance for relaxation, and evenings were true bonding times. 16 girls sleeping in one room with one bathroom forced everyone to cooperate and be considerate towards others. We also got a chance to spend some of our time with professors in a non-school environment, build better relations with them and make student-teacher cooperation even better. In Pecka, we were not 26 students and 4 teachers; we were one class, one family-like group. As a class, we are proudly one well-connected group since day one, and this brought us even closer together.

~ In memoriam ~

We owe this camp, and all our love for CAS to our dear late teacher Tatjana Račić. This camp was her project, and if it wasn't for her we wouldn't have this experience. Unfortunately, she wasn't able to come to Pecka with us, and due to evil illness we lost her on 27.4.2025.

First CAS class, she told us to enjoy CAS, to organise activities together, as a group. And that is exactly what we used this camp for. For us, she will forever be our CAS coordinator.

[pavlestevic]

Making soap for sale during the Week of Art 🧼

Activity title: Preparing soap and mixing it with various herbal scents

Type of activity: Activity, Service

Duration: 3 hours

Learning outcomes:

1. Identify your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

3. Recognize the ethics of choices and actions

Activity description:

Two weeks ago, the students who listen to Chemistry SL and Chemistry HL along with their professor took part in making soap in the laboratory, and then designing special fragrance mixes to add to the soap bars of various shapes and sizes. The students performed the practical work, such as preparing the chemical solutions, while our professor explained the methodology behind soap making.

Reflection:

Despite numerous technical difficulties and setbacks, this activity was a shining example of collaborative effort and persistence. Not only did we manage to solve issues with equipment, but we helped others in the process. And even though it was a painful experience for some, in the end we are all proud to be able to contribute to making someone‘s life better.

[pavlestevic]

LAB EXPERIMENT

Activity title: Lab experiment

Type of activity: activity

Duration: two hours

Learning outcomes:

-Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth -Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process -Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

On friday, our group visited PMF to learn about the process of gel electrophoresis. We observed how this technique is used to separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge. The demonstration included extracting DNA from a flower, preparing the gel, loading the samples, applying an electric current, and analyzing the results. We also gained insight into its applications in genetic research, forensics, and medical diagnostics. It was a great opportunity to see the process firsthand and understand its significance in scientific studies.

Reflection: We can reflect on this activity by considering what we learned, how it expanded our understanding of science, and how it might influence our future interests.

[pavlestevic]

Proteins.sci

Activity title: Chemistry winter camp

Duration: 2 days (17th and 18th of January)

Type of activity: Creativity

Activity description

During this winter break the universities in Banja Luka decided to host a winter camp for talented student that want to learn more. Five students from our class decided to apply and we were all able to participate in this workshop. Of course we had to start from theory which helped us revise and even expand what we have learnt about these fascinating macromolecules before. The next day we were able to participate in practical work in biochemistry lab. We were given the opportunity to use some of the equipment we have never seen before and we were very pleased with automatic pipettes. We are so glad that we were part of this project and hopefully it will become a new tradition!

Learning outcomes:

Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance.

Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process.

Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively.

Reflection

Overall, this was an amazing experience. We managed to learn more about proteins, a field we were all interested in. Most importantly, we were given the opportunity to develop the skills which are needed for work in the lab. We practiced our management with the equipment. All of these skills will be useful during the procedures and will make us feel more prepared for our EEs and IAs.

[pavlestevic]

Holiday Magic Starts with You✨🎁

activity title: decorating our classroom

duration: 50mins

type of activity: creativity, service

Activity description

We put up decorations and drew Christmas-themed sketches on the windows, as well as put ornaments on the Christmas tree

We had so much fun hanging out together, getting closer and sharing holiday spirit

We also circled the Christmas tree and sang holiday songs all together while dancing

Learning outcomes:

1. Identify your own strengths and areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process 

3. Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively 

Reflection:

we got to know each others talents and express ourselves creatively

we shared holiday spirit and lightened up the whole school

I hope we'll do this next year again because I learned so much about my classmates and it was a HEARTWARMING experience

happy new year!

[pavlestevic]

Svetosavska akademija

Activity title: Svetosavska akademija preparation and performance

Duration: 2 months

Type of activity: Creativity

IB participants: @petarcekic @masatisma @miacickovic @milicapuhalo @mihaelamiletic

Activity description

We participated in the preparation and performance of the Svetosavska Akademija, an annual school event celebrating the life and achievements of Saint Sava. Together with our Serbian teachers and peers, we contributed to various aspects of the event, such as singing, playing instruments, and reciting poetry. After 2 months of preparation, we succeeded in the realization of our ideas.

Learning outcomes

Collaboration: Working effectively with others to prepare the event.

Commitment: Consistent involvement over two months.

Engagement: Planning and performing activities that contribute to the school community.

Creativity: Developing and participating in creative expressions like singing, reciting, and instrumental music.

Reflection

Preparing for Svetosavska Akademija was a meaningful experience that strengthened our teamwork and creativity. Working with peers and teachers to organize the performance helped me build confidence and appreciate the importance of celebrating cultural heritage. It was rewarding to see our efforts bring the school community together.

[pavlestevic]

Activity title: "Volunteering at ACBL"

Type of activity: service

Duration: 4h

Learning outcomes:

Demonstrating the skills and recognising the benefits of working collaboratively

Identify your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

Description

IB coordinator gave us a nice opportunity to voulnteere at ACBL(American Corner Banja Luka) where we can develop some new interests and learn something about this community. Also, we were of some help at ACBL for example moving furniture and sorting books.

Reflection

After time spent here, I felt fulfilled with new experiences and learn how to work as part of a community. Besides, I had lot of fun with my classmates.

[pavlestevic]

Easy Cake to Make!

Activity title: Easy Cake to Make!

Duration: 2 hours (preparation, freezing and final coating)

Type of activity: Creativity

Learning outcomes:

How to creatively make a dessert without baking

Share it with people to bring a smile to others,

Organizing ingredients, preparation, freezing, serving, 

Activity description:

I decided to make a cake, so I bought all of the needed ingredients (bananas, peanut butter, biscuit and chocolate). It was really easy to make it. I made a mixture with all of the ingredients and just added the melted chocolate on to top of the freezed mixture. After I made it, I shared it with my family and everybody liked it.

Reflection:

For this activity, I decided to prepare a simple dessert using bananas, peanut butter, biscuits, and chocolate. I chose this task because it was a fun experience for me and involved a little of creativity. My goal was to create a tasty treat that I could share with my family and friends to bring joy through a small gesture of kindness.

[pavlestevic]

⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖

Attending history lecutres with my classmates

⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖

Activity title: Attending history lectures with my classmates

Duration: 45 minutes

Type of activity: Creativity

Learning outcomes

1. Identify your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth.

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process.

3. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences.

Activity description

Last week, my classmates and I attended a series of history lectures held in the hall of Gimnazija. These lectures were presented by fellow Gimnazija students, showcasing their knowledge and presentation skills. Our primary motivation for attending was to support our classmate, Milica, who was one of the presenters. However, the event turned out to be an educational experience for all of us.

The topics covered were diverse and intriguing, including Indira Gandhi and her role in Indian politics, the Chinese Civil War and the leadership of Chiang Kai-shek, and Livia, the first female leader of Rome. Each lecture was well-researched and gave us valuable insights into these historical figures and events.

milica presenting <3

Reflection

One of the key takeaways for me was how much effort and dedication my peers put into their research and presentations. It was inspiring to see students take the stage and confidently share their knowledge with an audience. Their passion for the subjects reminded me of the importance of curiosity and continuous learning.

The experience also made me reflect on my own ability to present and communicate ideas. Seeing my peers handle such complex topics with clarity and confidence encouraged me to work on developing similar skills.

[pavlestevic]

Honorable chairs, esteemed delegates...

Activity title: BaLMUN

Type of activity: creativity, service

Duration: long-term activity, 1.5 hours a week

IB people: @ivonamaric @katjaljubojevic @djurdjeviccmarija @mihaelamiletic @milicapuhalo @pavlestevic @petarcekic @saraburgic @srnamrkobrada14 @tanjaknezevic @varjavujicic @zelimirmaric

Activity description

Participating in Model United Nations – delegating for specific country, meaning representing its stance on important global issues which UN discusses. Simulations take place each Saturday, as preparation for official MUN conference which our school organizes. Every delegate is assigned a country to represent for that simulation.

Learning outcomes

🌍 ldentify own strengths and develop areas for

growth

🌍 Demonstrate that challenges have been

undertaken, developing new skills in the process

experience

🌍 Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS

experiences

🌍 Demonstrate the skills and recognize the

benefits of working collaboratively

🌍 Demonstrate engagement with issues of global

significance

🌍 Recognize and consider the ethics of choices

and actions

Reflection

Preparing to delegate for different countries, about various global issues, gives us the opportunity to learn about different problems concerning the world, and different cultures and policies around the world. As we debate our way to a resolution, we are encouraging collaboration and team-work in order to achieve the best possible results as a unity. Through BaLMUN, we develop our skills is diplomacy, collaboration, and public speaking. We learn how to view things from diverse perspectives and defend stances that often oppose our own. BaLMUN offers truly unique experience, a very educational activity, and we are truly happy to have such opportunity. In the end, raising awareness about the global issues is a step towards making world a better place.

[pavlestevic]

Helping a Friend Prepare for an English Oral Exam

Activity title: Helping a Friend Prepare for an English Oral Exam

Duration: 2 hours

Type of activity: Service

Learning outcomes:

I enhanced my teaching skills by focusing on weak points of my friend

I learned new things about the topics we have worked on, such as The Seven Wonders, Culture of Indigenous People, etc.

Activity description:

My friend asked me to help her with English, because she wanted to get better at it and have better grades. We went out, she brought her book and all of the notes she had. She was really organised, she made a lot of mind maps and because of that, it was really easy to work with her due to her dedication. We focused on her weak points, which are vocabulary and fluency in speaking. After 2 hours, we went through all the topics and she really enhanced her speaking skills. The day after, she got the highest grade (5) which made her happy and has boosted her confidence.

Reflection:

This experience taught me the importance of patience, tailored support with regard to individual needs, and just how rewarding it is helping others. It improved my communication and teaching skills while we were having fun. Overall, it encouraged me to seek more opportunities for helping others and growing through collaboration.

[pavlestevic]

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚

Hiking on Šehitluci with friends

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Activity title: Hiking on Šehovi with friends

Duration: 3 hours

Type of activity: Activity

Learning outcomes

1. Identify your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth.

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process.

3. Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience.

Activity description

This Wednesday, our group went hiking on the scenic trails of Šehutluci, just outside Banja Luka. The path was beautiful and inspiring, with informational boards featuring stories of local athletes who achieved great results along the way. We took time to read these and learn about the achievements and dedication of these athletes, which added a unique and motivational aspect to the hike.

As we continued, we arrived at a newly built viewpoint overlooking Banja Luka. The view was stunning, offering a panoramic look at the city from above. We paused here, taking in the landscape and snapping some photos together, as well as trying to find each others houses from where we were looking. The fresh air and open space gave us a sense of calm and connection.

Exploring the new features along the trail and taking in the city from above made this hike a memorable experience for all of us.

the view <3 Reflection

Hiking on Šehutluci with friends was more than just a physical activity; it was a good experience that brought us closer to the culture, history, and beauty of Banja Luka. Reading the boards about these athletes added a deeper layer, as each story inspired us with tales of perseverance and dedication. It made us feel connected to the community in a new way, honoring the achievements of individuals who have represented this area with pride.

Reaching the newly built viewpoint was a highlight. Seeing Banja Luka spread out below us reminded us how lucky we are to have such beautiful landscapes and a vibrant city. The view gave us a new perspective, not just of the city, but also of how refreshing it feels to step outside our routines and appreciate the world around us.

This hike wasn’t just a walk through nature; it was an experience filled with learning, laughter and friendship.

[pavlestevic]

The European Day of Languages Quiz

Activity title: The European Day of Languages Quiz

Duration: 2 hours

Type of activity: Creativity and Activity

Learning outcomes:

It was my first time participating in a quiz, so I enhanced my teamwork skills and learned how to answer questions fast and correctly under the pressure.

I increased my awareness of which areas of knowledge are my stronger and which are my weaker side. For example, I knew most of the questions related to geography and sport, but I didn't know all of the questions related to history and painting.

By participating, I have broadened my knowledge and learned a lot of new things about European language and culture.

Activity description:

It was the European day of the languages and the Faculty of Philology organized a quiz for high school students. Our English teacher informed us about the quiz and a few of my classmates and I decided to participate. The quiz was related to the European languages, culture, history, geography, etc. Unfortunately, we didn't win anything, but still it was really fun for all of us to participate.

Reflection

This activity was more than just a fun competition, it helped me to reflect on the value of languages. Through this quiz, I realized how diverse our culture is and how much there is to learn about it. I also learned how important teamwork is. Definitely, none of us could succeed in doing this quiz alone, so that taught me how much knowledge one team could have. In conclusion, this experience has deepened my appreciation for language learning and cultural diversity. I hope that, in the future, I will have more opportunities in participating at events such as this one.