This book describes a Connecticut school district's approach to teaching and learning that balances basic instruction with performance-based learning and assessment, using tools such as performance tasks, benchmarks, assessment lists, rubrics, and portfolios. Both literal understanding and application are important: Tasks are engaging and are well connected to the content, process skills, and work habits of the K 12 curriculum in many subject areas. Analytical assessment tools foster teacher dialogue, improve communication with students, encourage self-assessment, and help parents support learning. Student performance in the district has improved, as measured by standardized achievement tests, district measures, and the regionwide student portfolio.