Description

Every student deserves rigorous and meaningful learning experiences. Yet misunderstandings about rigor often interfere, especially the misconception that rigor simply means assigning more work or increasingly difficult tasks, rather than genuinely enhancing and deepening students’ thinking. So how can educators gain clarity about what true rigor looks like, and effectively encourage deeper learning in their classrooms?

In Rigor by Design, Not Chance, experienced educator Karin Hess not only provides a clear definition and vision of authentic rigor, but also presents a structured, equitable approach to actively engage students in meaningful, in-depth tasks. Hess identifies five essential classroom strategies teachers can use to promote powerful thinking and learning:

1. Asking carefully sequenced probing questions that increase in complexity over time.
2. Building strong schemas within each content area.
3. Designing purposeful scaffolding to strategically support students.
4. Developing complex, performance-based tasks focusing on transfer and evidence-supported solutions.
5. Incorporating consistent opportunities for student reflection and metacognition throughout the learning process.

In addition, Hess explains how educators can build an actionable assessment cycle that effectively drives and supports continuous student learning. Filled with practical teaching strategies, clear indicators of desired student behaviors, helpful templates, and various performance assessments, this resource is a valuable guide for teachers seeking richer learning environments. Likewise, instructional coaches and school leaders will find tools and approaches specifically designed to nurture rigor in their schools. Above all, Rigor by Design, Not Chance supports educators in cultivating a classroom culture where students take greater responsibility and ownership for their own learning.