How to Create an Assessment Portfolio

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While a test can give teachers a small snapshot of a student's mental abilities, an assessment portfolio provides a much more in-depth, authentic assessment of the pupil's skill level. Although the task of creating an assessment portfolio takes more time and effort than giving a standard test, the resulting picture of the student's skill level is so much more clear that it often proves worth the extra time. As you set about assessing your students, guide them through the creation of an assessment portfolio and use this tool to better your understanding of your their actual skill level.

Instructions

  1. Define the purpose for the portfolio. List the things that you want the portfolio contents to show. For example, if creating a portfolio for science, you might want it to show that the student understands and can utilize the scientific method as well as that the pupil is familiar with an array of science-related vocabulary.
  2. Pick a portfolio container. If the planned portfolio will contain only standard 8½-by-11-inch paper, use a standard folder. If the portfolio also will contain larger works, select a larger, more specialized portfolio container. When picking your container, consider the planned contents to ensure that it will serve the purpose.
  3. List items to feature in the portfolio. Write or type a list of planned portfolio contents. Use the list as a portfolio cover sheet, allowing pupils to see what the portfolio will contain, or use the list for your reference only.
  4. Create a portfolio item creation schedule. Set specific due dates for each piece of portfolio content, or keep the portfolio creation process a bit more fluid by setting a due date range and deciding on a specific date later in the year as you reach each portfolio piece.
  5. Prepare a portfolio self-evaluation form to promote reflection among your students. Ask your students to assign scores to their work based on their own estimation, or instead simply check a list of requirements, indicating whether each standard has been met.
  6. Create a portfolio evaluation rubric. Clearly list the criteria on which you will grade the portfolio, allowing students to more easily see how their ultimate grade will be calculated. Present this rubric to your students well before the portfolio due date, allowing them to make modifications to their portfolio to earn the grades they desire.

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