Portfolio Guide2013-2014

INTRODUCTION

At Eastern Westmoreland Career and Technology Center, we strive to help all students become highly-skilled, employable, successful, and literate. To become employable and well-educated, students must practice and master the PA Communications standards for Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. All EWCTC students will build a multi-level Career Portfolio, under the direction of their teacher (advisor) with support from the Literacy Committee. Then, each senior will present their Career Portfolio before a panel of evaluators. Earning a passing score on the Portfolio is a requirement for a Certificate of Completion. Cooperative Education students must have an up-to-date portfolio prior to beginning co-op.

DEFINITION

The Career Portfolio is a compilation of student work requiring teamwork between the student, CTE teacher, academic teacher, and career counselor. It contains documents that support your important qualities, skills, knowledge, and talents. These documents are listed in the ‘Portfolio Components’ page. The student is responsible for the contents. Teachers are responsible for assigning, guiding, encouraging, reviewing and scoring the Portfolio entries.

A Career Portfolio is never finished—it’s a work in progress, always undergoing change, improvements and updates. Throughout your time at EWCTC and beyond, new items are continually added to a meaningful Portfolio. The Portfolio is in a constant state of becoming more perfect—reflecting your current skills, talents, and unique qualities.

PURPOSE

The Career Portfolio can be a great self-marketing tool for five main reasons:

1. It draws attention to the key information you want to convey about yourself.2. It provides personal examples that connect you with an employment

opportunity. 3. It makes the key skills tangible.4. It adds to your credibility. 5. It builds confidence.

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Portfolio Components Due Dates

Cover Letter and Thank You Letter Oct 25

Resume Oct 25

Typewritten Job Application (Industry Specific) Oct 25

1-3 Letters of Recommendation/Commendation Jan 10

M.L.A. Career Research Paper Dec 20

Community Service Mar 28

Post-Secondary Plan Mar 28

Up-to-Date Task List Mar 28

*Job Shadow (Recommended) Mar 28

Senior Interview Day/Portfolio Presentation April 17

Artifacts

An Artifact is a written reflection about a completed task or project. Academic Artifacts include items from the task list. Practical Artifacts include Cooperative Education, job shadowing, and/or volunteer experiences.

12 Artifacts Minimum (Total) (1 per quarter)

Transcripts (optional)

License and Certificates (if available)

Awards, Ribbons, and Recognitions (if available)

*Optional but recommended (See Mrs. Newhouse)

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2013-2014 EWCTC Portfolio Checklist

NAME___________________________ PROGRAM_____________________________

COMPONENT COMPLETED DUE DATE

Industry-Specific Job Application October 25, 2013

Cover Letter October 25, 2013

Thank You Letter October 25, 2013

Resume October 25, 2013

1-3 Letters of Recommendation January 10, 2014

Quarterly Artifacts (12 min.) March 28, 2014

Career Research Paper December 20, 2013

Community Service (4 hours min) March 28, 2014

Post-Secondary Plan March 28, 2014

*Job Shadow (Recommended) March 28, 2014

Senior Interview Day/Portfolio Presentation

April 17, 2014

COMPLETION OF ALL PORTFOLIO DOCUMENTS IS REQUIRED TO EARN CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION

SENIOR PORTFOLIOS DUE MARCH 28, 2014SENIOR INTERVIEW DAY APRIL 17, 2014

*Optional/Recommended

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Cover Letter Guidelines1. Take the time to write a targeted cover letter for each employer. This means customizing each

cover letter you write, so it specifically relates your skills to the job for which you are applying.

2. State why you are writing, indicating your interest in the job.

3. State where you learned of the position and the title of the position you are applying for. This way the person reading your cover letter will know which job you are interested in.

4. Explain the reasons for your interest in the organization. Let the cover letter reviewer know why you are interested in the company.

5. Express your enthusiasm for the job.

6. Identify your most relevant skills and experiences. Don't just duplicate your resume. Rather, include the skills that most match the job.

7. Refer to the qualifications for the position and illustrate how your abilities relate.

8. Communicate your interest, motivation, and strengths.

9. Emphasize your achievements.

10. Indicate how you will follow-up, typically with a phone call or an email. Thank the company for their consideration.

Tips:

1. Avoid clichés and meaningless or wordy expressions.

2. Your cover letter should complement, not duplicate your resume.

3. Your cover letter is often the first contact with an employer; be sure it creates a good impression.

4. Take the time to target your cover letter to the job you are applying for. DO SOME RESEARCH ON THE COMPANY.

5. List all of your contact information in the heading. Your name, address, phone numbers and pertinent email. (Make it the same heading you use on your resume.)

6. Write the letter in business format. Your info at the top, their name, business and address on the left, the date, Dear ______:, body, closing.)

Buford B. Smiley

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123 Happy LaneBucolic, PA 15000

Home: 724-666-0000Cell: 724-888-1234

BSmiley@yahoo.com

Mr. Robert BuilderBob the Builder Construction144 Roberts WayLatrobe, PA 15650

June 1, 2012

Dear Mr. Builder:

I am responding to your advertisement for a carpenter specializing in kitchen/bathroom remodeling. Though you did not list specific skill requirements, I am a recent graduate of Eastern Westmoreland Career and Technology’s Building Trades program. As a student, I was exposed to basic cabinetmaking, masonry, and plumbing before focusing on the building trades. I am comfortable with blueprint reading, demolition, wall construction, wiring, laying flooring and setting fixtures.

I have previous work and volunteer experience related to construction, specifically kitchen and bath remodeling. These positions have given me confidence in my skills and have helped me to expand my communication abilities. I am eager to share my skills with a construction team who shares my interest in providing customers with quality work. I look forward to meeting with you to present my portfolio and learn more about your business. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Buford B. Smiley

Resume Guidelines

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General Information

CAPITALIZE proper nouns – ONLY Check spelling. Do not rely on spell check and verify spellings of all proper nouns. Format should be organized and neat. Always tailor the resume to match the job.Do not put references or “References upon request,” on the resume.Objectives should briefly mention what you can contribute to an employer. Objectives should not focus on what you are looking for in a position.

Headings

Headings should include name, address, phone numbers (home and cell). Email should be included only if applicable and you check it often. Your name should stand out on the page.

Parts of a resume

Parts of a resume should be organized to show your strengths first. If you don’t have applicable job experience, list skills first. Label each part of the resume.

1. Skills Use your task lists! Highlights strengths and skills applicable to the job. Big companies scan resumes for key skills. List your communication skills, teamwork, and/ or computer skills to round out your resume.

2. Employment List work experience in chronological order. (Note the last place first.)List month and year of start date and month and year of end date. If you are currently employed, list month and year of start date to “present.”List a minimum of three duties performed on the job. List the name of the business, city, state, and your position title.

3. Education List name of school, city, state and graduation year. Add your GPA if it is 3.25 or higher.Be sure to list your home school and EWCTC separately. Note your program with EWCTC’s info.If classes have been taken at a community college, list them, the start date and end date. Also, list the total number of credits taken if you have several.Do not list your middle school unless you went there last year. Never list elementary school.

4. Volunteer ExperiencesList volunteer experience in chronological order.List month and year of start date. List a minimum of three duties performed on the job. List the name of the business, city, state, and your position title.

5. Awards and Certifications Certifications are key! List every relevant certification you have. Awards should be listed only if they are important to the job. If using an award, mention where and when you received it. (Ex. Eastern Westmoreland CTC – Teamwork award – Fall 2010.)

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Buford B. Smiley123 Happy Lane

Bucolic, PA 15000Home: 724-666-0000

Cell: 724-888-1234BSmiley@yahoo.com

Objective

To perform carpentry skills with precision on construction sites

Qualifications Summary

Educated in the construction trade, reliable, works with accuracy and innovation, follows safety regulations and custom job specifications

Skills

Capable of operating common hand tools and power tools safely Measures with accuracy Completes tasks with minimal scrap Proficient in roofing, framing, and drywall Adept in basic cabinetmaking skills such as building kitchen and bathroom cabinets Competent floor installer, familiar with ceramic tile, hardwood, synthetic hardwood, and vinyl Exceptional written and verbal communication skills Reads blueprints Strives for customer satisfaction OSHA Certified, 2010

Education

Certification of Completion in Building Trades, 2010Eastern Westmoreland Career and Technology Center, Latrobe, PA

High School Diploma, 2010Derry Area High School, Derry, PA

Work Experience

Laborer Summers 2008-2012XOX Construction Company, Latrobe, PA Duties include kitchen/ bath demolition, basic framing, cabinet installation and job site cleanup

Volunteer Experience

Maintenance Volunteer Jan. 2009 - PresentAction for Animals, Latrobe, PA Duties include building fencing, repairing kennel gates, laying new ceramic floor tiles and participating in fund-raising activities.

Thank You Letter Guidelines

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1. Thank each interviewer for the interview opportunity. This may mean that you have to write more than one letter.

2. Be sure that you have spelled each interviewers name correctly. (Get this info before leaving the interview.)

3. Write a paragraph discussing why you are a good fit for the position. List specific skills that match the job description.

4. Show enthusiasm, but do not beg for the position.

5. Remind the interviewer of what you discussed in the meeting. If possible, show that you have done additional research on information learned in your discussion.

6. List all of your contact information in the heading. Your name, address, phone numbers and pertinent email. (Make it the same heading you use on your resume.)

7. Write the letter in business format. Your info at the top, their name, business and address on the left, the date, Dear ______:, body, closing.)

Buford B. Smiley123 Happy Lane

Bucolic, PA 15000Home: 724-666-0000

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Cell: 724-888-1234BSmiley@yahoo.com

Mr. Robert BuilderBob the Builder Construction144 Roberts WayLatrobe, PA 15650

June 10, 2012

Dear Mr. Builder:

Thank you for investing your time in our meeting on June 9, 2010. I enjoyed learning about the

types of jobs your company completes. After speaking with you, I drove past some of the buildings you

mentioned. The addition on ABCD Building on Hippity Hop Way was especially impressive! Your work

is impeccable, and I was really inspired by the quality of construction. I believe I could make some

excellent contributions to your company because I bring skills in building construction with an emphasis

in cabinetmaking. Scrollwork, similar to what I have seen on the ABCD building, is my specialty. I am

also willing to learn new techniques and believe that I would be a good fit for your team. We seem to

share many of the same ethics, interests and dedication to work. Again, thank you for meeting with me.

I look forward to hearing from you in the near future. Please feel free to contact me with additional

questions.

Sincerely,

Buford B. Smiley

EWCTC Postsecondary Plan

Senior Name: _______________________ Sending High School: ______________

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Program: __________________________ Instructor: _______________________

Career (s) of Interest: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Steps taken for Postsecondary Preparation:

□ Career Research ( includes wages, postsecondary requirements, degrees/certifications required)

□ Updated Resume□ Job Shadow – (date/place)

___________________________________________□ Community Service/Volunteer Hours -

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

□ Employment - ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

□ Attended a College Fair □ Attended a Financial Aid Presentation

Postsecondary Options

Next year, I plan to:

Employment

□ Do you have a job? __________________________________________

If not, list your plans to obtain? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Union/Apprenticeship

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□ Have you spoken with a representative? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

□ What are the requirements for the application process? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

□ Did you visit the facility? _______________________________________□ Did you schedule the entrance exam? ____________________________

Postsecondary School

□ Did you take your PSAT/SAT/ACT/Accuplacer? __________________________________________________________

□ Did you speak with a representative? ____________________________□ Did you visit the school? ______________________________________□ Did you research the entrance requirements?

__________________________________________________________□ Did you obtain your transcript and recommendation letters? ___________□ Did you complete the application process? ________________________□ Did you complete the FAFSA (www.fafsa.ed.gov)?

__________________________________________________________□ Have you researched scholarships and applied?

__________________________________________________________□ Have you been accepted? _____________________________________

Armed Service

□ Did you take the ASVAB? _____________________________________□ Have you decided on which branch? _____________________________□ Have you met with a Recruiter? _________________________________□ Have you enlisted? ____________ When do you leave? ___________□ What job do you intend to pursue in the military? ____________________

EWCTCCommunity Service/Volunteer Program

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Student Name: _____________________________ Program: ___________________

Grade: __________ School: ____________________

Name of Activity: ________________________________________________________

Date of Activity: ____________________ Total Number of Hours: _____________

Description of Activity: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Student Assignments: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Supervisor’s Name and Title: ______________________________________________

Supervisor’s Signature: ___________________________________

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EASTERN WESTMORELAND CAREER & TECHNOLOGY CENTER 4904 Route 982 . Latrobe, PA 15650

Phone: 724-539-9788 . Fax: 724-539-1907www.ewctc.net

Mrs. Marie Bowers, Administrative Director

ACADEMIC ARTIFACT

STUDENT NAME: Student Name PROGRAM AREA: Building TradesDATE COMPLETED: 5/6/2010 TASK / COMPETENCY: Task Name / Number

REFLECTION:

Students will write about their project, addressing the following: 1. Product

a. Description/Definition (What, When, Where)

b. Rationalei. Why did you choose this

project?2. Process

a. How does this project demonstrate what you know and what you can do? (Skills learned and steps)(Apply Technical Vocabulary)

b. Self Evaluation i. What challenges did you face

and how can you improve upon them?

3. Purposea. How can you use this skill in the future?

(In class)b. How does this apply to your

career/vocation? (On the job)

INSTRUCTOR’S SIGNATURE

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Artifact Scoring GuidePRODUCT PROCESS PURPOSE CONVENTIONS IMAGE

The product or project is described and defined using logical rationale.

The process demonstrates knowledge, skills gained, and a self-evaluation.

The purpose of the artifact in future use and career application.

The use of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage and sentence formation.

Image of explained artifact

7/8

Substantial, specific, and/or illustrative content demonstrating strong development and sophisticated ideas

Substantial, specific, and/or illustrative content demonstrating strong development and sophisticated ideas

Substantial, specific, and/or illustrative content demonstrating strong development and sophisticated ideas

Evident control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage, and sentence formation

Image/images are relevant, focused, and clearly depict the subject of the artifact. Color and significant enhancements are present

5/6

Sufficiently developed content with adequate elaboration or explanation

Sufficiently developed content with adequate elaboration or explanation

Sufficiently developed content with adequate elaboration or explanation

Sufficient control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage, and sentence formation

Image/images are relevant, focused, and clearly depicts the subject of the artifact

3/4Limited content with inadequate elaboration or explanation

Limited content with inadequate elaboration or explanation

Limited content with inadequate elaboration or explanation

Limited control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage, and sentence formation

Image is not relevant, focused or inaccurately portrays the subject of the artifact

1/2Superficial and/or minimal content

Superficial and/or minimal content

Superficial and/or minimal content

Minimal control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage, and sentence formation

No image

NAME: ______________________________ ASSESSMENT: _____ / 40 _____%

COMMENTS: _____________________

DATE: ______________________________ ________________________________

________________________________

TASK/COMPETENCY:__________________ ________________________________

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M.L.A. Career Research Outline

I. Introductiona. Define Careerb. History of Career (3 different notes)c. Thesis Statement

II. Description/Requirements (may be more than 1 paragraph)a. Describe Career (services/products)b. Describe Skills Involved

i. Physicalii. Mental/Emotional

iii. Interpersonalc. Education/Training Required

III. Environments/Statistics/Future Outlook (may be more than 1 paragraph)a. Work Environment/Conditions

i. Typical Hoursii. Equipment/Technology Used

iii. Geographic Differencesb. Job Statistics/Future Outlook

i. Number of Current Jobsii. Key Industries for Employment Opportunities

iii. Future Job Prospects/Demand

IV. Career Advancement/Growth (may be more than 1 paragraph)a. Salary (entry level – maximum)b. Advancement Possibilitiesc. Evolution of Career/ Predict Future Changes

V. Personal Connection (may be more than 1 paragraph)a. Describe what influenced or attracted you to this careerb. Assess your current success in reaching your career goalc. Predict where you’ll be in 5 or 10 years

VI. Conclusiona. Relate to Introduction (History/Definition)b. Restate Thesis Statement (Different Wording)

VII. M.L.A. Works Cited Pagea. 3 Sources Minimumb. Alphabetically Arranged

REQUIREMENTS: 3 Sources Minimum, At least 3 pages in length, Size 12 Times New Roman, Double Spaced

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