This volume theorizes, describes, and explains practices and some specific programs designed to help meet the needs and demands of a diverse student population. The central point of this volume is that curriculum, instruction, and assessment in middle-level education is a dynamic, interrelated system undergoing change. The book contains the following chapters/articles: (Introduction) "Middle-Level Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment" (S. Gross); (1) "Curriculum Integration: Theory, Practice, and Research for a Sustainable Future" (B. OSteen and others); (2) "Exploratory Education in a Society of Knowledge and Risk" (L. Waks); (3) "Developmental Appropriateness Versus Academic Rigor: An Untenable Dualism in Middle Level Education" (V. Anfara and L Waks); (4) "Culturally Responsive Instructional Processes" (D. Brown); (5) "Every Student and Every Teacher: Crossing the Boundaries of Middle Level, TESOL, Bilingual, and Special Education" (E. Skilton-Sylvester and G. Slesaransky-Poe); (6) "Authentic Curriculum: Strengthening Middle Level Education" (M. Caskey); (7) "The Relationship Between Middle-Grades Teacher Certification and Teaching Practices" (S. Mertens and others); (8) "Character Education Infused Into Middle Level Education" (T. Mandeville and R. Radcliffe); (9) "Reculturing Middle Schools to Use Cross-Curricular Portfolios to Support Integrated Learning" (S. Thompson); (10) "Enabling 'Algebra for All' With a Facilitated Instructional Program: A Case Study of a Talent Development Middle School" (R. Balfanz and others); (11) "Cohorts in Middle Level Teacher Preparation: Transformational Possibilities and Complexities" (J. Arhar and A. Crowe); and "Conclusion" (S. Stacki). Each chapter/article contains an abstract and a list of references. (Contains a subject index.) (WFA)