Portfolios

Portfolios are beneficial for a number of reasons. First, they clearly show a student's growth over a period of time. This is helpful for teachers, students and parents, as all parties can make sure that the student is progressing as he or she should. Second, if students know that their work is going to be put into their portfolio, they are more likely to work harder and do a better job. If they know that either they or someone else is going to look at it again, they will not want to be embarrassed by their lack of effort. Finally, especially in math classes, students can see how current topics are built on previous ones. By looking back over their old work, they can make key connections between mathematical ideas. Overall, if used correctly, portfolios can be of great value in the classroom.