Samples of student work are the icing on the cake, the yummy dessert of comprehensive homeschool records.
In our homeschool records, I provided three writing samples with out comprehensive records. I tried to choose a variety of writing styles; research, fiction, and poetry. I tried to use writing samples that I knew were good. We had submitted some writing to essay competitions to win scholarship money. When my children won scholarship funds, I knew the essay must have been good, so I tried to include that piece of work.
In addition, I kept a sample of work for every class on the transcript. I didn’t submit those to colleges (I figured maybe they didn’t really want documentation of four years of PE, you know? That could get long!) Instead, I made a note on each course description about how “written work is available upon request.” I actually did keep something from every class. If they asked me for something, I was able to give it to them.
I was asked for some additional work samples. I was asked for a “graded” English paper (presumably with some red marks on it) and math work in the student’s handwriting. Another college wanted to see a lab report from science. My advice is to be prepared. It’s impossible to guess exactly what records they may ask for. Instead of worrying about it, just try to keep a few representative samples from each class. Then you’ll be prepared for anything!
Another feature of the Gold Care Club is where I answer your biggest questions about homeschooling high school. You will love your free month of Gold Care when you get my e-book!