Teachers have an opportunity to find out what students know in an informal setting. Students want their teachers to show an interest in their personal life. This is a time for students to get to know each other more personally. This can be modified to fit instructional needs of the classroom. Younger students can bring in 5 items of information written on index cards to post on their time lines, while fourth grade and up can bring in up to 20.
Photographs add color.
Time lines help with the presentations. This is a great way to get parents involved in their child's life to share about their own heritage. The home-school connection is important. Students will treasure these portfolios as they grow up. Teachers will treasure the memories of their students.