Doug Lemov, with his keen observations of top teachers and ability to break down what they do into concrete techniques that all teachers can put into practice, has gone a step further by including teaching clips that clearly illustrate what these techniques look like – a resource sorely needed by the teaching profession. He not only provides specifics but also thoughtful explanations of the rationale behind the techniques so that teachers can implement it. The goal of each technique is ultimately to set high standards for students before they go to college.

The book is not just a tool for teachers. It serves as a powerful resource to help school leaders understand the elements of effective teaching which is vital in both observing and training their own teachers.Note that Lemov does an impressive job of describing dozens of techniques in just over 300 pages. The summary can’t possibly capture the depth and nuances of all of these techniques. Instead you will find an overview of most of the techniques and a few more details for some of them.

The goal of the book and this class is not blind fealty to all of these techniques. Instead, try them, adapt them, and improve them in a way that works to increase student achievement. The path of successfully adapting and refining these techniques will be different for every teacher.