Applying Depth of Knowledge and Cognitive Rigor

An Educator's Guide to Supporting Deeper Learning
Unlock strategies for PK–2 classrooms that shift traditional roles and empower students to construct meaning. Practical modules with FAQs, tools for planning, and assessments illuminate how integrating Depth of Knowledge with innovative thinking transforms instruction and deepens learning experiences.

Learn how to apply a cognitive mindset that supports student-centered classrooms (PK– 2).

For more than 2 decades, Karin Hess has worked with the concept of depth of knowledge (DOK) and expanded applications of cognitive rigor across content areas and grade levels, proving that every student can experience deeper learning.

This interactive book offers a self-guided journey beginning with the basics: what DOK is, what it is not, and debunking common misconceptions about rigor. Karin shares how she synthesized ideas from various thinking models with DOK as the foundation to create the Hess Cognitive Rigor Matrices, now used in more than countries. Each module is framed by frequently asked questions and provides practical tools and strategies for applying a cognitive mindset that supports student-centered classrooms, planning instruction that shifts student roles from taking in information to constructing meaning, and monitoring progress with assessments that uncover thinking.

This unique, action-oriented workbook is a perfect companion to Karin's earlier books and a great DOK refresher for PK– 2 staff!

Learn how to:

• Build a shared understanding of DOK and rigor among your teaching colleagues.
• Shift DOK levels in order to shift teacher-student roles in support of learning transfer.
• Create actionable standards-based and competency-based assessments.
• Analyze and adapt current curricular and assessment materials.
• Explore applications of DOK in progress monitoring and grading.

Contributor: Barbara R. Blackburn (Foreword by)

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