Purchase a large three-ringed binder for each student in your class. Clearly label the binders by printing the names of each student along the spine, as well as the school year.
Decide how to assess student progress through the portfolios. A combination of samples of student work, objective notes gathered from observations and running records are ideal options to include, as they give you glimpse into different aspects of the students' development.
Divide the binder into labeled sections; bi-monthly sections, or quarters are ideal.
Gather samples of students work at the beginning and end of each bi-monthly or quarterly period. Collect samples of their cutting, coloring, writing and any other concrete example you think is important to assess. Insert the samples into clear binder sleeves, label the sleeves with the dates from when the samples were taken and add them to respective binders in the proper sections.
Observe individual students during free-play and activities at the beginning and end of each bi-monthly or quarterly period. Take notes of their actions; note how they perform specific skills (fine motor, gross motor) and how they interact with one another, for example. Label the notes with the dates they are taken and add them to the binders in the appropriate locations.
Administer running records with students. Develop running records that focus on specific skills and concepts such as phonics, number recognition, colors, shapes, etc. Ask students the questions or statements that are compiled on the running records; for example, "Name a word that starts with the letter "A," or "Show me two fingers." Write down the answers supplied or actions performed by students in response to each question or statement. Label the running records with the dates they are administered and add them to the appropriate location in respective binders.