The Portfolio Overview Portfolios work in different ways in different classes.

Sometimes they are used to simply collect the work a student has done over a period of time. Sometimes they are used to mark progress via revision. And sometimes they are used as a way to assess student work-not simply just writing but also progress and effort in class. The Portfolio you will turn in for this class will do all of these things. As you develop these portfolios each of you will engage in three activities: collection, selection, and reflection. This will give you the opportunity to review your work, revise your writing, and think about what you have learned throughout the semester. Another way you will show the knowledge you have developed is in a reflective Introduction for your portfolio. I will assess the portfolios and include a letter to you when I return them. The letter will detail your work in the class to that point. I will give you feedback on the quality of your work.. I will also include a letter grade. Final Portfolio Your final portfolio is your last opportunity to demonstrate to me everything you have learned throughout the semester and think about what you have learned about yourself as a writer. What to include:

1. A selection of your Readers Notes from the semester (the entire semester). You can include up to three. You do not need to revise them, simply include them, comments and all. Include with your selections about a half page, single spaced of typed reflection on why these particular readings/journals were important to you this semester. You should write this reflection outside of class and include it in your portfolio. 2. A selection of your Beginnings Pieces from the semester (entire semester). You can include up to three. You do not need to revise them, simply include them, comments and all. Include with your selections about a half page, single spaced of typed reflection on why these particular readings/journals were important to you this semester. You should write this reflection outside of class and include it in your portfolio. 3. A revision of one of your first two formal essays. You do not have to revise both here- choose one. 4. Your completed third formal essay. a. Note: If you are writing one large essay than, instead of handing in one revised essay and your completed third essay, you will hand in your final completed large essay 5. Your Final Portfolio Cover Letter. You will write a reflective introduction on your work this semester. Your cover letter should answer the following questions: a. What did you learn about yourself as a writer this semester? b. What did you learn about your family heritage? c. What was the hardest part of this course for you? d. What piece of writing are you most proud of and why? There is no particular format for the cover letter. You can write a letter, an essay, a bulleted list, a memo, whatever format suits you to convey what you mean.