FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test

What is the primary purpose of portfolio assessment in education?

1. To grade students based on exams

2. To systematically collect a variety of work to document progress

3. To create standardized tests for all students

4. To showcase individual talents without evaluating progress

The correct answer is: To systematically collect a variety of work to document progress

The primary purpose of portfolio assessment in education is to systematically collect a variety of work to document progress. This approach allows educators to gather evidence of a student's learning and development over time, showcasing a comprehensive view of their abilities and achievements. By incorporating different types of work, such as projects, essays, and presentations, portfolios provide a holistic representation of a student's growth and learning journey. This method emphasizes continuous assessment rather than relying solely on single test scores, enabling a deeper understanding of a student's strengths and areas for improvement. This approach contrasts sharply with the practice of grading solely based on exams, which can provide a limited view of a student's abilities. Similarly, standardized tests focus on uniform measurement across all students, potentially overlooking individual learning paths. Showcasing individual talents without evaluating progress would fail to provide meaningful insights into a student’s development, making portfolio assessments a more effective tool for monitoring and supporting student learning.