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Portfolio
Assessment Information
by
Linda Campbell, Homeschool Consultant
This
article concerns the written narrative or portfolio review, one of four
assessment options permitted in West Virginia Code ｧ18-8-1.
The
following are my thoughts about portfolios as an experienced evaluator. Please
consult your evaluator for his/her suggestions, requirements, and procedures.
A
portfolio is a collection of samples of work from throughout the year that
shows accomplishments, experiences, and progress and abilities over time. A
portfolio showcases talents, skills and achievements. The portfolio assessment
can complement the overall instructional approach and learning style of the
child more than other forms of assessment, and it shows what the child
actually did and knows from throughout the year. When a portfolio is assembled
periodically, there is a constant review and reflection on the work so
evaluation of skills, growth, and pacing is ongoing and can be adjusted as
needed.
Samples
of your child痴 work can take many forms: everyday work, not just showcase
or "perfect" pieces; work from texts, workbooks, and tests;
pictures, products, and presentations as well as community and real world
experiences. Some suggestions for items to include in a portfolio:
ｷ
notebooks
or folders of work containing daily practice work, rough drafts, completed
quizzes, tests, and reports;
ｷ
lesson
plans and calendars;
ｷ
lists
of reading materials (books,
magazines), reference materials, audio and video/visual materials, learning
games as well as activities, clubs, and lessons;
ｷ
lists
of computer experiences: lists and examples of sites frequented, courses and
software used, and worksheet samples;
ｷ
photos
of trips, activities, projects, events, collections, and other creations;
ｷ
certificates,
awards, ticket stubs, programs, brochures and news clippings from events
attended;
ｷ
samples
of art work;
ｷ
correspondence
with others (pen pals).
And
don't forget to mention experiences like volunteer work, jobs, community
involvement, religious service and life/learning events.
To
demonstrate progress for the year as the law requires, select samples of work
that reflect change in skill level and growth in knowledge in the five subject
areas named throughout the year. Be sure to include work for social studies
and science. The samples and products presented are used to assess the child's
progress, skill level, and abilities over time.
There
is no right or wrong way to compile the portfolio materials. The organization
and presentation is as individual as your homeschooling. It痴 helpful to
date your materials as you go and gather and organize your materials on a
regular basis.
During
the review itself, items in the portfolio can be used to engage the student in
meaningful conversation, which can enhance self-esteem and confidence. The
portfolio evaluator can make suggestions concerning materials and methods and
offer information to enrich the child's learning. The portfolio review should
be a positive learning experience and a time to celebrate. I request that the
children themselves be present at the review as it is their day to shine.
To
be added to my portfolio information mailing (if I did not do an assessment
for you last year), please call Linda Campbell at 304/983-1200 and leave your
name and postal address, or email the information to IAL@att.net .
Adapted
from an article in WVHEA
Report (February 2004). A version of this article originally appeared in
the Monongalia Area Homeschoolers Assn. newsletter.
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