The Act of Teaching prepares students to be competent beginning teachers and to develop into competent experienced teachers. Research-based, the text emphasizes what teachers need to know about students (how they learn and their diversities); how to plan and provide instruction; how to assess, manage and motivate students; and how, overall, to be an effective teacher. Well-designed pedagogical features prompt students to reflect on what they are learning, highlight current issues and topics, and encourage students to apply what they are learning.

In developing this practical guide to effective teaching, the authors were guided by work done at the educational testing service (ETS) to determine what a competent beginning teacher should know; and work done by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards to determine what an experienced teacher should know.