Notes that a clearly defined purpose with identification of performance goals is crucial to the success of middle school teacher teams. Provides several practical ways for teacher teams to discover or define their purpose, including naming the team and identifying desirable qualities for team members. (HTH)

Examines effective lesson-planning under the integrated curriculum approach. Proposes a seven-step plan of writing, discussing, and revising proposed plans. Suggests that using the writing process in lesson planning as a team creates a multidisciplinary, integrated curriculum with organized, power-packed lessons and activities, offering a…

Discusses the pivotal role of the middle school principal in the success of collaborative teaching teams. Details team functions, selection, and stages of team development. Also discusses team meetings, reports, leader meetings, team competition, and team professional growth. (ET)