MEGA Cross Categorical Special Education Practice Test

A portfolio assessment primarily provides documentation of what to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team?

1. a student's strengths and evidence of progress

2. the effectiveness of instructional methods

3. a student's level of achievement compared to peers

4. the potential of a student to learn skills

The correct answer is: a student's strengths and evidence of progress

A portfolio assessment is a comprehensive collection of a student's work that illustrates their academic growth, achievements, and abilities over time. When presented to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team, this collection serves as a tangible resource for documenting a student's strengths and evidence of progress. This type of assessment captures various aspects of learning, including specific skills mastered, improvements made, and areas of growth. It may include samples of student work, assessments, and reflections, which together provide a holistic view of the student’s capabilities. This rich documentation helps the IEP team make informed decisions about the student's educational plans and goals by highlighting not only what the student has learned but also their unique strengths that can be built upon in instruction. While other options touch on relevant educational aspects, the primary focus of portfolio assessments within the context of the IEP is to showcase the student's individual strengths and progress rather than instructional effectiveness, comparative levels of achievement, or potential for learning.