Grading students’ work for scholastic publications is a frequently shared challenge for new and experienced advisers alike. Portfolio assessments are a highly effective evaluation tool for journalism classrooms because they require students to self-document their work.
Quality of Work.
Before production begins, spell out your expectations for what constitutes a quality portfolio and the specific components. In a portfolio assessment, the final evaluation is based on both the process and the end product. High-stakes exams are unrealistic in yearbook production.
Begin with a goal or purpose.
The final portfolio, ready for submission, should be well organized, original and creative. It should fulfill all the requirements set forth for the assignment. Grammar, spelling and mechanics should be nearly flawless for written portions of the spread.
Determine what content should be included in the portfolio.
This will vary per your publication. Portfolios can include worksheets and/or notes for photo planning, background information and interviews. Additionally, rough drafts, self assessments and peer assessments for designs, copy, captions and headlines can be included. A paragraph explaining what the subject and message of each spread are and how the photos and secondary coverage support the message are essential. A printout of the final spread goes on top.
Assess the process and final product.
Have students present their portfolios to each other for review before submitting them to you. Instruct students to listen attentively and respectfully to others who are speaking, and contribute their own relevant information and opinions appropriately. Evaluation of peers must be conducted in a serious and respectful manner and should include positive feedback, as well as relevant suggestions for improvement.
Portfolio assessment accommodates students with special needs, aids communication between school and home, engages students actively, provides goals for student learning and documents teacher effectiveness.
Earning Your Points: Use this worksheet to give yourself a break by placing evaluation responsibility in the students’ hands. They need to justify their grades by showing you what they have done.
