Although experts agree about what middle level teacher education programs should include, the majority of middle school teachers do not have specialized training. Middle level mandatory certification is necessary to induce middle school teachers to pursue special training. (MLF)

A ten-year study of television viewing and content found that middle level students watch more television than any other age group. They are exposed to violence, sex, use of drugs, and sex role socialization in many programs. Schools can help students become discriminating consumers of television. (MLF)

Proposes clustering content areas of a middle school curriculum under humanities, technology, and personal study. An interdisciplinary team planning approach could eliminate the schism between academic and other subjects. (MLF)

The middle level social studies curriculum should involve interdisciplinary instruction and in-depth study of issues that lead students to make connections. (eight references) (MLF)

A middle-school counselor thanks her principal for his help over a 15-year working partnership. She is especially grateful for the principal's understanding of middle-level program objectives; respect for counselors' suggestions and nontraditional approaches; support for group counseling, teacher advisory programs, and counselors' professional…

Curriculum developers should consider middle level learners' needs for intellectual growth and individual attention and their needs to understand themselves and know others. (MLF)

Reviews recent trends in grade organization and factors to consider in examining changes at the district level. Cites the lack of empirical evidence supporting any one form of grade organization as a reason for the range of patterns found in American school districts. Offers guidelines for accomplishing grade organization change. (Author/WD)

Tips are offered on how to ease the transition of students from elementary to middle level or junior high schools. A teacher-advisor program is proposed, and staff development modules are suggested to help teachers assist students in the transition process. (TE)

Middle schools are here to stay. The overriding purpose of middle-level education continues to be that of providing programs based on the unique characteristics, needs, and interests of middle-level students. (Author/TE)

"Turning Points," the report of the Carnegie Task Force on Young Adolescents, examines the condition of America's young people, ages 10-15, and how well middle-grade schools, health institutions, and community organizations serve them. In this interview, David Hornbeck discusses the report and its recommendations. Ignorance concerning this age…

A principal shares principles and practices involved in achieving excellence in a middle school. (DCS)

Defines and explains the elements of the English curriculum (listening, speaking, reading and writing) and shows how, as integrated, they become the basis for the middle school or junior high English curriculum. (Author/JM)

Following a review of the development of the middle school concept, this essay cites six ideal characteristics of the middle school and questions whether many middle schools have attempted to embody them. The need for change for continued development of middle schools is emphasized. (MJL)

Prevention of teenage suicide and coping with it when it occurs is an increasing concern for middle-level principals. This article focuses on specific implications of the youth suicide problem for middle-level principals with considerations for other principals as well. (Author/TE)

The Department of Education and National Association of Secondary School Principals have compiled differing criteria for middle school excellence as a result of conflicting ideas of the purpose of education, but resolution may be found through consideration of all demands by parents, educators, and the Department of Education. (DCS)