Suggests that the cliche that "all kids can learn" validates educational practices that mask middle school learners' diversity. Presents case studies of two middle school learners, one student who could not read, and one who was gifted. Suggests that the hard truth is that middle schoolers differ greatly in the ways they learn and in their…

Describes Project Enable involving approximately 30 middle school students at risk for dropping out of school and 12 former military men earning teacher certification. Discusses the teacher candidates, essentials of at-risk programs, lessons learned from Project Enable, benefits for participants, and suggestions for working with learners at-risk…

Discusses the impact of a "shy" student, and her subsequent death, on a middle school teacher. Suggests that it is up to middle school teachers to implement a middle school philosophy and to provide a sense of security and belonging to every student in every classroom. (RS)

Describes a proven program of structured, sustained silent reading (SSR) for middle school students that helps students successfully develop academically and socially. Notes the learning climate attends to the cognitive, personal, and social needs of the learner. Discusses student-teacher conferences and SSR, and negotiating individual reading…

A special program through which a student contracts with a teacher to learn a certain amount is explained. (CK)

Explains briefly identity development and health and safety concerns specific to gay and lesbian youth. Proposes a variety of strategies for meeting their intellectual and developmental needs. (SR)

Describes the educational reform of the Italian middle school system from a fragmented system of separate vocational and academic schools to a unified comprehensive middle school system. Effects on the high school system are also mentioned. (AN)

Presents research and opinion on the pros and cons of teaching phonics in the middle school. (SJL)

Maintains that working with the Bayeux tapestry is an excellent way to introduce the use of primary sources (and thus help students develop a critical historical inquiry method) into the middle or secondary school history class. Suggests how to introduce the tapestry and describes numerous class activities for using the Bayeux tapestry across the…

Describes how guidance (counseling) was integrated into school life and involves all school personnel at a middle school. Discusses structures such as "home base" and interdisciplinary teams, as well as the middle school counselor's role. (SR)

Considers how although for some the transition from middle school to high school can be easy, many young adolescents experience a decline in grades and attendance and begin to view themselves more negatively and experience an increased need for friendship. Notes that students with learning disabilities making the move to high school face even more…

Compares classical literacy (which treats reading and writing as distinct from content subjects) with informational literacy. Discusses seven key informational-literacy teaching practices and class activities that middle grade teachers can use to prepare their students for life in the information age. (SR)

Surveys National Board Certified teacher's views about middle school teacher preparation. Validates the need for specialized middle level teacher preparation, and shows consensus about major elements of such programs: a comprehensive understanding of early adolescence; the needs of young adolescents; the philosophy and organization of middle level…

The orientation course, described in this article, was intended to provide some help and guidance for students as they approach adolescence and enter a new educational environment. (Author/RK)