Focus

<p>In this 2nd edition of <em>Focus: Elevating the Essentials to Radically Improve Student Learning </em> Mike Schmoker extends and updates the case that our schools could be on the cusp of swift unparalleled improvements. But we are stymied by a systemwide failure to simplify and prioritize; we have yet to focus our limited time and energy on the most essential widely acknowledged evidence-based practices that could have more impact than all other initiatives combined. They are: simple coherent curricula; straightforward traditional literacy practices; and lessons built around just a few hugely effective elements of good teaching. As Schmoker demonstrates the case for these practices--and the need for them--has grown prodigiously.</p><p>In every chapter you'll find late-breaking discoveries and practical advice on how to simplify the implementation of new state standards in the subject areas; on the hidden pitfalls of our most popular but unproven instructional fads and programs; and on simple versatile strategies for building curriculum planning lessons and integrating literacy into every discipline. All of these strategies and findings are supported with exciting new evidence from actual schools. Their success confirms as Michael Fullan writes that a focus on the best high-leverage practices won't only improve student performance; they will produce stunningly powerful consequences in our schools.</p>