For a homeschooled student, the portfolio is an essential tool. But just what is a 'portfolio' anyway?

Throughout the school year, as well as at the end of the year, you will need to assess your student's academic progress. The portfolio is the tool used to do so. There are as many ways to build a portfolio as there are to homeschool. But, these suggestions will help get you started in the right direction.

Use a journal (pick a fancy one at your local stationary store or simply use a notebook) in order to track and record what your child accomplishes each school day. If you are schooling more than one student, you will want a journal for each of them in order to keep their work separate. Put your child's name and the year on the cover. On the inside cover, jot down the names of the textbooks as well as their publishers. This is also a good place to write down any support groups you may belong to and the contact person's number.

As the school year progresses, date each page and record the day's lessons, i.e., 'Algebra - pg. 42-46' and 'Read and discussed chapter 3 of Swiss Family Robinson'. Also, do not forget to write down locations, etc. of all field trips. Tip: always update your journal daily. Otherwise it is guaranteed to run away with you!

Many families include photos in their annual journals. Photos of science projects, class trips, etc. not only are helpful reminders at the end of the year, but are just plain fun to have. Now, on to the second part of your student's portfolio - the paperwork.

You do not need to keep every single paper that your child has done throughout the year, but simply a representation of that work. But even so, you can quickly become swamped in it. What you need is a good storage system.

I prefer a file box, keeping each subject separated by subject folders. Make certain to always date each paper before filing it away.

Another good method is the simple three-ring binder. Once again, be sure to clearly label each separate course area.

At the end of the school year, write a summary for your student/s that includes all vital information,. i.e., name/age/grade/address. Also include your name, a list of text books utilized as well as any special projects which had been accomplished. This is also a good place to note any particular areas of growth you have seen in your student this past year.

Take this report along with your file box (or just samples from) or your three-ring binder (again, only a representation of the work) to the person you have chosen to review the end of the year work. With this portfolio in hand, that person will be able to give an accurate assessment of your child's academic work and progress.

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