Includes bibliographical references and index

The importance of simplicity, clarity, and priority -- What we teach -- How we teach -- English language arts made simple : A brief note on textbooks -- Social studies with reading and writing at the core -- Redefining inquiry in science -- Making math meaningful -- Conclusion : This time, let's do it

In focus: Elevating the Essentials to Radically Improve Student Learning, Mike Schmoker comforts the afflicted - teachers, administrators, and students straining under the weight of multiple initiatives - and afflicts the comfortable - education reformers more enamored with flashy process than meaningful results. This book will help new teachers focus on the essentials of curriculum and lessons, and will help veterans, weary of the perpetual hail of silver bullets, to rediscover the joy of teaching with purpose. Most importantly, this book will help students who are depending on leaders and policymakers to listen to the evidence, give up the fad of the day, and focus on learning