Give students a sample of what the digital portfolio should resemble. You may want to develop a menu of items and file types that could be included. If the digital portfolio process is new to your class or school, mock-up a sample of what you would like students to create. In addition to providing students with a model, it will be a useful exercise because it allows you to assess the amount of time and effort required to complete the portfolio. Build regular check points in the process to make sure students are thinking about and assembling their portfolio.