What is essential?

In a time where breadth seems to be the way to go, Ellin Keene, author of Mosaic of Thought, argues for a "National Conversation" and so I would like us to be a part of that conversation. What is essential for our students? Keene would argue for a the learning theory that asks this of us...

Learning Theory:
To focus on a few key concepts;
of great import
taught in great depth;
over a long period of time;
and applied in a variety of texts and contexts.

Seems simple almost...doesn't it? Please take the time to think about and respond to this in terms of you and your students. Let's begin this conversation with your thoughts and ideas in response to this theory. Think about an area that you have done this, or would like to do this....and ultimately what IS essential for our students?