To reach true academic rigor, learners need high levels of both cognitive complexity and student autonomy. Moving them in this direction, however, requires teachers to become skilled at using research-based strategies to make the critical instructional shifts that deepen student learning. The Essentials for Achieving Rigor model of instruction and corresponding series of books were developed to help teachers provide that caliber of truly rigorous instruction. This guide, developed by authors of the Essentials series, brings it all together. Carla Moore, Michael D. Toth, and Robert J. Marzano provide valuable tips and guidance to help teachers leverage essential strategies to: Conduct standards-based planning and instruction Establish conditions for learning and criteria for success Use formative assessment data to make decisions Practice strategies in a unified system of instruction Each book in the Essentials series details one of 13 research-based strategies that facilitate the delivery of rigorous, standards-based teaching. This guide supplements that work, providing a big-picture view of the Essentials model's components, purposes, and practical use in the classroom. Complete with templates for performance scales, student evidence, and lesson details, it empowers educators and leaders to transform their schools into thriving, sustainable communities of practice.