Discourse requires students to evaluate and interpret the perspectives, ideas, and mathematical arguments of others as well as construct valid arguments of their own. That is, students develop deeper understandings of mathematics when they engage in meaningful social interactions such as whole class discourse. Both the National Council of Teachers…

Middle level educators around the country aim to create a classroom environment and a way of teaching that is developmentally responsive, challenging, empowering, and equitable for every student. One way to ensure this is to include instruction that promotes creativity. This article offers guiding principles and shares instructional lessons that…

Teaching and studying the Holocaust is a complex and sensitive undertaking. The dynamics of dealing with a modern, technologically advanced state's attempt to annihilate all members of a given group of people for racial reasons involves tortuous twists and turns that challenge the most sophisticated of thinkers, leading to a situation in which…

The question of how to best help students understand, accept, and respect difference presents an important challenge for educators. As schools embrace an increasingly diverse population, middle school students are likely to encounter on a daily basis people from diverse backgrounds, and with different abilities and disabilities, in their schools…

The use of picture books as supplementary material for middle level classrooms is becoming more common. Picture books are being created specifically to address the needs and interests of middle school students. Society is becoming more visually oriented and the visual format of picture books appeals to adolescents, who today are exposed to various…

Argues that achievement gains in literacy in the middle school classroom revolve around the three elements of "dialogic instruction" orchestrated to support "envisionment-building classrooms" centered around substantive and sustained "curricular conversations." Asserts that effective classroom practices that include well-planned classroom…

Examines the emerging concept of teacher as leader in the classroom, and offers a useful framework for practice. Finds that to exercise situational leadership in the classroom, teachers vary supportive behavior and directive behavior in response to four levels of student task development: telling, consulting, participating, and delegating. (SD)

Highlights research important to understanding struggling middle school readers, and based on that research, suggests principles for instruction. Argues that knowing students as readers, maintaining a wide range of reading material, and allotting time for reading in class can support readers regardless of motivation, interest, or ability. (SD)

Asserts that middle level teachers can deal effectively with the challenges of appropriate grading for all students. Argues that motivating students with learning disabilities requires the attention of the entire IEP (Individualized Education Plan) team to modify instruction, adapt grading procedures, and keep communication open with parents and…

Presents information learned from the planning and implementation of a Writer's Academy. Describes structures for writing as well as six useful lessons learned pertaining to: (1) teacher conferences; (2) peer conferences; (3) exploring the world; (4) writing with students; (5) valuing the process and the product to address national standards; and…

Addresses "text potential" as a tool to make interdisciplinary connections between language arts and mathematics by identifying literacy standards and identifying literature that has text potential for teaching mathematics. Describes literature that highlights aspects of geometry and measurement, and discusses the power and potential of using…

Presents vocabulary building strategies to assist young adolescents in better understanding the mathematical concepts being presented to them. Specifically describes: (1) a verbal and visual word association strategy; (2) concept circles strategy; and (3) use of the strategies. Notes that the modified vocabulary strategies have positive results…

Asserts that many enrichment options are congruent with core beliefs regarding middle school pedagogy and suggests some models that will raise the ceiling of achievement for gifted learners and provide opportunity to enhance the learning of all students. Focuses on: (1) shared vision; (2) flexible grouping structures; (3) varied teaching and…

Mathematics curriculum for students in grades 5 through 8 should include explorations of statistics in real world situations. Provides a sample data-exploration activity. (ASK)

Presents several strategies used by teachers committed to providing varied teaching and learning approaches in the middle school; strategies include learning inventories; question posing by young adolescents; projects; and interactive and reflective learning by students. Also discusses the need for professional development for teachers who are…