One helpful alternative form of assessment is portfolio assessment. Instead of relying on a single test or short assignment, students collect samples of their work over time, projects, writing pieces, drawings, reflections, or anything that shows how they are growing. This kind of assessment gives a fuller picture of the student as a learner, not just what they can do on one particular day.

Why it works well:

It shows progress across weeks or months, not just one moment in time.

Students get to choose work that represents their strengths, helping them build confidence and ownership.

It encourages reflection, allowing students to think about what they learned and how they learned it.

Things to keep in mind:

Because every portfolio is unique, it can be harder to score consistently.

Teachers need time to review and discuss the work with each student.

Some students may feel unsure about what to include or how to present their work.

Portfolio assessment can be especially meaningful in a resource classroom. For students with autism, it allows them to show their learning in ways that fit their communication style, interests, and strengths. It highlights growth with real, concrete examples-making it a supportive and flexible option for documenting progress.