Good Goals to set?

Question

Hi! I'm homeschooled and I need to make a portfolio to display for various reasons. It's a portfolio for every subject, I found hwo to make one here: (please look at the link so you know what I'm talking about- just read through the begining and through the list of things to include that's it- it's short) http://ezinearticles.com/?Creating,-Maintaining-and-Presenting-a-Homeschool-Portfolio&id=102223

So anyway, I was wondering what are some good goals to put in my portfolio? It says I should include a list of my goals in the beggining. I'm in 8th grade, this is just a practice year for making a portfolio, I really have to start making my official ones starting in 9th grade. Anyway- what are some good goals to set? I have no idea!

Answer 1

First, I am the one that posted the previous portfolio question - thanks to all for the behind-the-scenes help!!!!

Second, "ViewFrom," I would definitely be there for an online conference!  I'd even, at least make an attempt to line up an admissions person - I *may* have a connection with Vanderbilt in TN.

Now to your question! As far as setting goals... here is our approach...

My son has joined the Congressional Awards program.  HSLDA recently did an article about this in one of their publications.  The awards are given in four categories: Personal Development, Community Service, Physical, Exploration/Expedition.  Details on this can be seen at the link below.  The great things: 1) this program will give you a structure for setting and pursuing your goals; 2) as you accomplish your goals you will get official and prestigious recognition for doing so (and some cool stuff to put in your portfolio).  It is my understanding that Congress issues two awards - one is the Medal of Honor and the other is for youth achievement through this program.

The portfolio thing: I am very frustrated with this and I have decided to create our own online web application for my son to build and maintain his portfolio.  If you, or anyone else, are interested in being a "guinea pig" in this effort, let me know! I intend to have a prototype ready in about a month - maybe less.

Also a book recommendation for you: Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teenagers.

Here is a quote from the congressionalAward site:

"The Congressional Award is a public private partnership created by Congress to promote and recognize achievement, initiative, and service in America's youth. The Congressional Award provides a unique opportunity for young people to set and achieve personally challenging goals that build character and foster community service, personal development, and citizenship."

Answer 2

Well think of things that you want to learn, and excel in!! Maybe starting a new language, or reading a set amount of books!!! Taking on a new skill such as painting or drawing.... a goal is something only you can really decide!!!

Answer 3

Long term goals...

"I'd like to go to college for ...."

"The colleges I'm considering are...."

"I would enjoy learning more about....."

"I would like to study abroad, in France"

They want to know that you're interested in learning and your parents are doing a good job keeping it that way :)

You could write down stuff like...

"I'd like to learn to speak German"

"I want to continue practicing my art skills to better myself"

"I'd like to better myself in History"

I think that it would be fun for you to make a

journal/photo album and include samples of your work too, make it formal not fun and no scrapbooky things.

Answer 4

There are 2 kind of goals...short term goals and long term goals. Short term goals are  within months to year. Long term goal are few years to 10 years or may be more.

Short term goal for your age will be

1 I will study very hard for the next exam in one month.

2 I will help my mom in the kitchen at least twice a week.

Long term

1 I will try to take atleast one AP class in 9th grade next year.

Answer 5

This is a topic of interest to our family as well. We are also looking into portfolios for the high school years of our eighth grader. There was also a post a few days ago about portfolios here at Yahoo Answers/Homeschool by ysn you might want to look up.

I would be interested in an online meet and greet with others who are also exploring protfolio options. I have an online classroom that can serve as a terrific way we can meet online together. Perhaps we can arrange to get an admissions counselor to come in for an interview and see it from their side of things. If you think you would be interested in doing something like this, please e-mail me and I will send a link to my online classroom for a planning meeting. My e-mail is [e-mail]

Answer 6

You should try and create S.M.A.R.T. goals (See link below). Using this method for each subject will help you create your own distinct and descriptive life and learning goals. Both short and long term. Be sure to be honest and point out any difficulties you have as this is a way for your new teacher to help you in the next year.

Good luck with going to 9th grade.