The portfolios serve as a demonstration of both the student's progress and the instructional program for parents and administrators. Questions regarding a student's progress can be answered by reading through that student's work, thoughts, and reflections. Using Portfolios Students' portfolios can serve them as they continue their mathematics education. They can look back into their portfolio to refresh their knowledge of a topic from their own point of view. Many students have sent along portions of their IMP portfolios as part of their college applications.
Teachers have a variety of policies on grading portfolios.
Some teachers look for completeness, since the bulk of the samples put into the portfolios have already been graded. Others assign a grade based on demonstration of student growth or understanding, especially as reflected in the cover letter. However you choose to grade the portfolios, you should use them for a broader kind of assessment from time to time. Both you and the students should take time to look through the portfolios and get a feel for areas of growth and, perhaps, areas of need. The portfolio should be available to students for use or revision at all times.