This book provides K-12 teachers with information about effective teaching and learning tools. Each innovation has a long history of use and has been researched and evaluated in a variety of settings. The innovations foster a student-centered classroom environment that is equitable and rigorous. The nine chapters focus on: (1) "The Power of Essential Questions"; (2) "Curriculum Integration as a Tool for Coherence"; (3) "Standards-Based Curriculum and Assessment Design"; (4) "Authentic Assessment"; (5) "Using Scoring Rubrics To Support Learning"; (6) "Portfolios: A Window into Students' Thinking and Learning"; (7) "Reflection: A Key to Developing Greater Self-Understanding"; (8) "Action Research: Asking and Answering Questions about Practice" (Diane Cunningham); and (9) "Embracing It All." The book provides examples from different grade levels, along with design modules, templates, and checklists. The five appendixes include: tools for developing a curriculum unit; tools for developing authentic assessments; tools for designing portfolio assessments; reflection prompts and questions; and tools for action research. (Contains 21 references.) (SM)