Based on a foundation of portfolio learning where the instructor functions as the students' "guide by their side," the book shows the link between learning and assessment.

Presents a complete narrative of one student's progress through the course as a device for delivering the material and illustrating how students can learn from students.

Offers concrete strategies for substantive revision by embedding thinking strategies such as clustering and freewriting throughout the writing process rather than limiting students to prewriting activities.

Provides multiple student examples throughout -- including metawriting and revisions -- especially evident in sample Portfolio Letters and Justin's Portfolio.

Includes a large number of exercises and activities to promote collaboration and analysis for students' own work.