What is the purpose of keeping a portfolio as suggested by a principal for novice teachers?

Keeping a portfolio serves as a reflective tool for novice teachers to think critically about their teaching effectiveness. By compiling various artifacts, such as lesson plans, student work, and evaluations, teachers can evaluate their own practices, identify areas for improvement, and document their professional growth over time. This reflective process fosters continuous development and helps educators make informed adjustments to their teaching strategies, ultimately benefiting their students.

In contrast, following a strict curriculum may limit a teacher's ability to adapt to their students' needs, while evaluating student performance typically focuses on assessing students rather than the teacher's instructional methods. Sharing lesson plans with parents can be beneficial for communication but does not directly relate to the personal growth and professional development aspect encompassed by a portfolio.