This document provides a framework for academic and career/technical teachers who want to raise students' achievement through real-life projects reflecting the rigorous academic and technical standards needed for further learning in the workplace and postsecondary education. The document begins with definitions of the six A's of project-based learning (authenticity, academic rigor, applied learning, active exploration, adult relationships, and assessment). The following core principles of project-based learning are discussed: (1) see the whole before practicing the parts; (2) study content and apply it to real problems; (3) learn by observing, trying out, and reflecting on how experts do things; and (4) make schoolwork more like real work. Questions for evaluating implementation of the six A's of project-based learning are listed along with the following action steps for translating research into action: (1) identify specific things students will learn through the project; (2) define an essential question/concept; and (3) design "scaffolding" (activities, access to resources, knowledge and skills, and assessments) to support learning. The following items are also included: suggestions for building a repertoire of teaching skills; sources of staff development and technical assistance; a list of World Wide Web resources; profiles of five successful project-based learning programs; and a detailed example of gauging a project's effectiveness. (MN)