Work samples are examples of student work—essays, tests, projects, and worksheets—collected to document educational progress, often required as part of homeschool portfolios for state compliance.
What are Work Samples?
Work samples are tangible examples of your child's completed schoolwork that demonstrate learning and academic progress. These might include writing assignments, math tests, science lab reports, art projects, or completed workbook pages. Unlike standardized tests that provide a snapshot on one particular day, work samples show growth over time. They serve as evidence of education for states requiring documentation, provide valuable records for college applications, and create meaningful keepsakes of your child's educational journey.
Key Takeaways
- Three samples per subject (beginning, middle, end of year) typically satisfies requirements
- States like Pennsylvania, Florida, and Maryland have specific portfolio requirements
- Work samples complement standardized testing—they cover subjects tests don't assess
- Digital and physical storage options each have advantages
- Keep originals in your files; submit copies for official reviews
States Requiring Work Samples
Requirements vary significantly by state. Pennsylvania mandates portfolios including writing samples, worksheets, workbooks, and creative materials in required subjects. Florida requires samples of writings, worksheets, workbooks, or creative materials used by the student. Maryland's portfolio reviews require weekly work samples across English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Health, Art, PE, and Music. Vermont requires portfolios demonstrating progress in each subject area. Many other states offer portfolio review as one of several assessment options.
What Types of Work to Collect
What Types of Work to Collect
- Writing samples
Essays, book reports, creative writing, journal entries
- Math work
Completed tests, problem sets showing work, worksheets
- Science materials
Lab reports, experiment documentation, research projects
- Creative projects
Art, crafts, photos of 3D projects
- Tests and quizzes
Graded assessments showing comprehension
Organization Strategies
Most families use a large three-ring binder with subject dividers and page protectors for important items. Add new work to the back and organize chronologically or by subject—whichever makes sense for your state's requirements. Alternatively, use accordion files, filing cabinets, or digital systems. Scanning apps let you photograph work with your phone and store it electronically. Whatever system you choose, date everything and maintain it throughout the year rather than scrambling at year-end.
How Many Samples to Keep
Portfolio evaluators want a snapshot, not an exhaustive archive. Three samples per subject—one from the beginning, middle, and end of the year—typically suffices and clearly shows progress. Include a variety of work types, and don't be afraid to include imperfect work that demonstrates authentic learning. If your state requires weekly samples (like Maryland), develop a simple filing habit: each Friday, select one representative item per subject.
The Bottom Line
Work samples provide authentic evidence of learning that standardized tests can't capture. They document progress in subjects like art, music, and physical education that tests ignore. Even in states without portfolio requirements, maintaining work samples protects you if questions ever arise about your homeschool and creates meaningful records for the future. Start a simple system now, add to it consistently, and you'll have comprehensive documentation without year-end stress.
