Victoria's Portfolio

Introduction

The purpose of my conference is to share my overall academic journey within SAS this year in 8th grade.

I’d like to share:

• What I’ve done and what I still want to achieve
• Some areas of growth, struggles, and some of my work
• My goals and how I plan to achieve them

My Vision Board

Some of the things I’ve included in my vision board include:

1. A badminton court
2. A book
3. View from a plane window

These are important becuase:

1. Badminton is a sport I play.
2. Reading has benefited my current english-related grades significantly, therefore an important part of my life.
3. I have travelled frequently throughout my life, making it, in a way, a part of me.

My Goals In Student Led conference:

Goal 1: Hand in homework assignments on time.

Specific: Develop efficient study habits to hand in assignments earlier.

Measurable:

Start homework assignments the night they are assigned.

Follow a productive routine (e.g., using a Pomodoro timer, checklists).

Utilize a to-do list, checking off assignments once completed.

Achievable: These tasks are realistic and can be accomplished with consistent effort and support.

Relevant: Directly addresses the struggle with late submissions, fostering a more productive learning environment.

Time-bound: Achieve no more than 1 missing late assignments by the end of the semester.

Goal 2: Maintain a balance between academic work and leisure time.

Specific: Create a balanced schedule that allocates time for both academic work and leisure activities.

Measurable:

Allocate specific hours each week for studying and leisure (e.g., 4 hours of study vs. 2 hours of leisure daily).

Track time spent on each activity using a time management app.

Achievable: This is realistic with proper planning and prioritization.

Relevant: A balanced schedule is crucial for mental well-being and academic performance.

Time-bound: Review and adjust the schedule weekly to ensure balance is maintained throughout the semester.

3. Goal 3: Participate more in sport-related extracurriculars.

Time-bound: Commit to regular participation for the entire semester and assess involvement by the end of the term.

Specific: Increase participation in sports by joining at least one new extracurricular activity.

Measurable:

Attend at least two practices or meetings per week for the chosen sport.

Track participation in events and competitions over the semester.

Achievable: Joining one new sport is realistic and manageable alongside academic commitments.

Relevant: Enhances physical health, teamwork skills, and overall well-being.

TTG (Transfer Transdisciplinary) Goals:

Critical thinking – The artifact below is an example of my participation in assignments requiring analyzing and thought, demonstrating critical thinking skills.

Language Arts

Artifact 1 – This artifact presents my grade for an analytical essay which focused on the moral dilemmas of a variety of stories. This demonstrates the achievements and progress I have made throughout my writing/analytical processes, emphasizing my development not only as a student but creative writer as well.

Artifact 2 – The artifact is an excerpt from one of the many reflections I completed in my reading writing passport. The written component of the article provides an example of the work within this assignment, an important insight.

Science

Evidence of Organization

Earlier work:

Recent work:

My notebook gradually became a crucial learning tool and resource for me throughout the course of the year.

Evidence of Active Learner Habits

My active learning habits have considerable room for improvement.

Evidence of understanding of Key Concepts

I have a relatively high understanding of key concepts within class.

Evidence of Growth in Science Skills

My skills in CER writing/analytical writing have improved significantly throughout the semester.

Social Studies

Artifact 1 – This is feedback regarding my WW1 Impact Analysis Assessment, demonstrating how my in-depth understanding of WW1’s influence on my chosen topic reflects my grasp of such concepts. This artifact reflects my development from a state of lacking understanding to effectively communicating my points regarding WW1’s influence on society’s view on mental health conditions. I incorporated the feedback I received in later assignments, taking notice to delve into specific, concrete evidence when supporting a point.

Artifact 2: The above image is me and my peers participating in a debate regarding an assigned motion. This demonstrates my ability to think critically, which was crucial during preparation, as well as engage in discussions respectfully while articulating my thoughts.

Math

Artifact 1:

1. The artifact is a collection of math assessments and quizzes reflecting various topics, including unit quizzes on curved solids, volume calculations, and applying powers. It demonstrates proficiency in understanding and applying mathematical concepts related to geometry and algebra.

2. I learned how these calculations are used in real-life scenarios. I developed strategies for approaching complex problems, particularly in applying the “Product of Powers” rule in algebra.

3. Some questions required multiple steps, which made it difficult to keep track of my calculations. To overcome these challenges, I created a study guide with key formulas and practiced problems regularly. I also collaborated with classmates to discuss and solve complex questions, which helped clarify my understanding.

4. I chose this artifact as I believe it reflects the general situation of my academic learning in Math, which is an important insight within the conference today.

Artifact 2:

1. This artifact demonstrates a report of my active learning within the learning environment of math class. This includes homework collection, IXLs required to complete, etc.

2. Throughout the creation of this artifact, I reinforced key math concepts introduced during class, reflecting on my progress and improving areas of growth throughout practice.

3. Certain challenges I faced while completing the work displayed within this artifact include the on-time completion of these assignments as well as the understanding of concepts previously introduced. However, I overcame such difficulties by completing the required assignments at a earlier time and sought out help from outside sources to increase my familiarity with the key concepts learned.

4. I chose this artifact because it encapsulates my learning journey in math and the improvements that could be made. It showcases my positive attitude to completing required assignments, how it correlates to my understanding of essential mathematical concepts, and how this area can demonstrate growth.

Chinese

1. How has this task helped your Chinese learning? How has it enhanced your understanding of the Chinese language and culture?

This task has helped me gain a deeper understanding of Chinese expressions and cultural background. By researching related topics, I have been able to better use vocabulary and grammar, while also learning about many customs and traditions related to Chinese culture, making my grasp of the language more comprehensive.

2. How did you overcome challenges during this task? What progress do you think you have made in problem-solving and dealing with difficulties?

During the task, I encountered some difficulties with language expression and data collection. I overcame these challenges by consulting dictionaries, using online resources, and discussing with my teacher. This has led to a noticeable improvement in my problem-solving abilities, making me more confident and independent.

3. What new knowledge or skills did you learn from this task? How have these knowledge or skills impacted your Chinese learning?

In this task, I learned many new vocabulary words and expressions, especially in describing emotions and culture. This knowledge has made my writing and verbal communication smoother, and significantly improved my understanding of daily conversations.

4. What part of this task are you most proud of? Why? Are there any aspects you feel need improvement or strengthening?

I am most proud of being able to independently complete a depthful article that reflects my understanding and analytical ability regarding the topic. However, I believe I still need to improve on the accuracy of grammar and word choice, especially in more complex sentence structures.

5. How has completing this task changed your understanding of your learning style or motivation? How do you plan to use this understanding to improve your performance in Chinese learning?

Through this task, I realized that I need to participate more actively in my learning and seek more practical opportunities. I plan to improve my Chinese level by engaging with native speakers, participating in language exchanges, and reading more Chinese materials. This proactivity will help me maintain motivation and interest in my studies.

Design Tech

Liao 2024-2025

Reflection on semester 1:

As I reflect on Semester 1 in my Design Technology (DT) class, a significant part of this period of time is the process of designing and creating a decorative tissue box. This project allowed me to express my creativity while considering the functionality and aesthetics of such items.

One artifact that showcases my work is the completed tissue box project, which was characterized by the assigned design movement.

Through this project, I demonstrated my skills as a “Creative Learner” by brainstorming a variety of design ideas as well as experimenting with various techniques. Overall, this experience has emphasized a crucial factor in design, creativity and how that may impact one’s understanding of such concepts.

PE

I believe I improved with my active learner in class/during games, effectively collaborating with my teammates to pursue points. Throughout class, I actively participate to improve my skills in the particular sport taught in the unit.

Art

1. I demonstrated my creativity within this learning process by suggesting unique designs and experimenting with different clay techniques. When challenges arose, I adapted quickly and integrated my teammates’ ideas into our sculpture, fostering a collaborative environment. 
2. I engaged in the project by asking questions and reflecting on the group’s progress after each session. I remained persistent when facing difficulties and took responsibility for my tasks, contributing to our overall success. 
3. In our group, each group member discovered how open communication was essential, as we discussed everyone’s ideas during brainstorming. We respected each other’s suggestions, compromised on design choices, and supported one another, which enhanced our teamwork and motivation.

Strengths and areas of improvement

Strengths:

1. I believe one of my strengths is my research and data analyzing skills. As an example, I can effectively identify relevant topics and conduct thorough searches using various databases and search engines. I believe I am efficient in evaluating sources for credibility and relevance, ensuring the information I use is reliable. Additionally, synthesizing information from multiple sources and presenting my findings clearly in the form of written reports is a priority of mine. Overall, my research skills help me think critically and solve problems, which I know will benefit me throughout my academic journey.

Areas of Improvement:

2. An area of improvement of mine would likely be time management and organization. I often find that it is challenging for me to effectively develop a productive schedule allowing for efficient completion of assignments.

Passion Project 4.0

1. The purpose of my project is to develop and strengthen a skill, watercolor painting, through the creative expression of illustrations of the 4 seasons. Each painting represents a landscape setting of Autumn, Summer, Spring, and Winter. Through this project, I am able to present my skills not only as an artist but a communicator of the serenity of nature as well.

1. I demonstrated my creativity within this learning process by suggesting unique designs and experimenting with different clay techniques. When challenges arose, I adapted quickly and integrated my teammates’ ideas into our sculpture, fostering a collaborative environment. 

2. I engaged in the project by asking questions and reflecting on the group’s progress after each session. I remained persistent when facing difficulties and took responsibility for my tasks, contributing to our overall success. 

3. In our group, each group member discovered how open communication was essential, as we discussed everyone’s ideas during brainstorming. We respected each other’s suggestions, compromised on design choices, and supported one another, which enhanced our teamwork and motivation. 

Design Tech

Liao 2024-2025

Reflection on semester 1:

As I reflect on Semester 1 in my Design Technology (DT) class, a significant part of this period of time is the process of designing and creating a decorative tissue box. This project allowed me to express my creativity while considering the functionality and aesthetics of such items.

One artifact that showcases my work is the completed tissue box project, which was characterized by the assigned design movement.

Through this project, I demonstrated my skills as a “Creative Learner” by brainstorming a variety of design ideas as well as experimenting with various techniques. Overall, this experience has emphasized a crucial factor in design, creativity and how that may impact one’s understanding of such concepts.

Goal for Semester 2:

Improve the quality of my work, specifically Process Journals.

1. Describe how media could influence teen mental health: Media throughout society influences teens’ mental health by enforcing negatively-influencing ideas/concepts into their minds.
2. Explain why you think mental health stigma exists and how we could reduce stigma: Mental health stigma exists due to the stemming of certain stereotypes from social media. Advocating that stigmas are usually inaccurate as well as harmful to individuals suffering from a particular mental health condition.
3. Summarize what you have learned about mental health conditions and why it is important for teens to understand them: There is a variety of mental health conditions, negatively impacting all kinds of individuals regardless of gender, race, or age. Despite the importance of treatment for mental health issues, mental conditions are often disregarded, potentially leading to further complications in life. It is crucial for teens to understand such mental health issues as they are able to understand the existence potentially similar obstacles in themselves as well as their peers.

B2

1. The evidence collected from the sources provided revealed that while phones can be essential tools for connectivity between students, they can be extremely distracting as well, consequently leading to lack of face-to-face interactions between students. This could potentially result in a decrease in vital EQ skills.
2. My opinion on cell phones being unrestricted next year in highschool is relatively neutral, since I acknowledge both perspectives of cell phones. However, I believe that as students mature, there should be less restrictions with phones as they are helpful tools and personal belongings.
3. Strategies regarding my phone use that could help with my social-emotional health in highschool might include putting it away during class to avoid distractions as well as focusing more on meaningful face-to-face interactions with friends.

The Center for Human Technology states “Teens prioritizing digital communications over meaningful face-to-face interactions miss the chance to fundamental social skills.”

Kelly, the highschool we interviewed stated “I find that phones can be a bit distracting, especially in classes, so I just put it in my bag during them.”