Math teacher and author Barbara Doyle knows firsthand the difficulties educators face in today's world and the real challenges involved in reaching students-helping them to truly understand abstract concepts and information.

Through her teaching experience, Doyle discovered that incorporating the Common Core Mathematical Practices (part of the Common Core State Standards Initiative that defines knowledge standards for grades K-12) in the classroom greatly improves students' comprehension of mathematic principles and theories. Now, she shares her approach with you.

In this handy guidebook, Doyle outlines step by step the secrets to achieving teaching success. Each chapter focuses on a different goal, such as creating an engaging environment for learning, paying attention to language and terminology, and running the classroom in a professional, genuine manner.

Unlike most professional development books, Greater Expectations engages the reader with humor and a light, conversational tone. No dry, boring material here! While mathematics teachers are specifically targeted, the concepts and techniques featured are helpful for all educators.

Implementing the Common Core Mathematical Practices will reap benefits with students, fellow teachers, and even parents as the young minds in your charge absorb the lessons of the world-and actually understand them.