Schmoker, Michael J

Presents a practical guide that focuses on the importance of consistent curriculum that allows teachers to learn from one another.

The introduction states: "[T]he only reason our schools haven't made astonishing progress in the last 30 years of "reform" is quite simple: very few schools ever implemented 'what is essential'--the most powerful, simple actions and structures that would dramatically increase the proportion of students prepared for college or careers. What is 'essential' for schools? Three simple things: reasonably coherent curriculum (what we teach); sound lessons (how we teach); and far more purposeful reading and writing in every discipline, or authentic literacy (integral to both what and how we teach).

Presents case studies from five schools whose students have shown great learning increases, demonstrating the differences created in results when teachers regularly, collaboratively review assessment data in order to reach measurable achievement goals.

A discussion of school improvement, examining the conditions that favor results, and discussing teamwork, measurable goals, performance data, rapid results, research and development, and opportunities for action within various subject areas.

A discussion of school improvement, examining the conditions that favor results, reviewing the theory behind the conditions, and demonstrating how anyone in virtually any school setting can begin to successfully replicate these conditions. Includes case studies.