I found this chapter interesting and helpful. I am going to keep my response short & sweet, as my right hand is tired of doing all the work today :)
I have used showcase & collection portfolios in the past---good, but same issues the chapter mentions
"aha" --- I should be moving towards an assessment portfolio that links curriculum/instruction to assessment, and allows students to have input in the criteria. also should involve more student self-assessment
also, i am starting to get some great ideas of how I might use portfolios (newsletter writing samples) and now I need to figure out how to best use student self-assessment, and student selected criteria. I feel like a lot of the examples were geared towards younger students.
in a way i have been using portfolios, but not in a systematic way...i like the ideas for contents page, and page for notes for others (parents, next teachers etc)....i would love to take these ideas and turn it into an electronic portfolio with my class.
i will be getting a new cast tomorrow during class, so think of me!! the best way to reach me this week is via e-mail.
take care, and i hope to talk to you all soon!
Em