The authors provide a brief introduction to the Dimensions of Learning instructional model and then explain how it relates to lifelong learning standards and the content standards being developed in mathematics, science, and other subjects. They include numerous examples of performance tasks that help students meet standards by requiring them to actively construct knowledge for themselves.

Teachers will especially appreciate the book's many rubrics, which are four-point scales that teachers can use not only to assess student performance on various tasks related to the five dimensions of learning, but also to provide descriptive feedback that can help students improve their performance. The book is printed in an 8" x 10" format so readers can easily photocopy the rubrics and blank assessment forms in Part Two of the book.