
A classroom portfolio is a representative sampling of a student’s writing for evaluation. It differs from the traditional writing folder that contains all of a student’s work.
Why should I ask students to compile classroom portfolios?
Portfolios encourage students to monitor their own writing progress. They learn firsthand that writing is an involved, recursive process of writing and rewriting. Portfolios also directly involve students in assessment as they choose which pieces to include. You can use any and all methods of assessment with portfolios, including self-evaluation with a "Student Checklist," peer evaluation with a "Peer Response" sheet, and summative assessment with a "Writing Rubric."
How many writing samples should be included in a portfolio?
You and your students should make that decision. However, as a guide, ask your students to collect at least three pieces of writing in a portfolio each quarter, including any drafts. (Photocopy journal entries rather than ripping them out.) Have students complete "For My Portfolio" for each piece of writing, reflecting on why they like it and chose it to include.
How can I help my students with their portfolio writing?
Provide your students with many opportunities to discuss their writing with each other. Make daily sharing time an important part of your class. Expect your students to evaluate their own writing and the writing of their peers—and help them to do so. Also be available to guide students when they need help with their writing. Finally, create a stimulating classroom environment that encourages students to immerse themselves in writing.
How do I evaluate a portfolio?
Use the "Writing Rubric" as a starting point for your portfolio assessment. Focus on the later works in each collection as a demonstration of the child's growth. Also, in the comments section, reflect on how the student has progressed over time.
You can also modify the rubric based on the goals you and your students establish at the beginning of the grading period. Then each quarter, you can evaluate new entries to the child's portfolio and track the specific gains you are hoping to see.