This article synthesizes reports of middle grades research and practice from 2000-2013 that appeared in "Middle Grades Research Journal," "Middle School Journal," and "Research in Middle Level Education Online," 3 publications that specifically and exclusively report on middle level research and practice. This comprehensive and critical review of the literature identifies patterns in the major themes, topics, theoretical frameworks, and research methods used in research reported in these publications. From the patterns identified, this article proposes directions for future middle level research and practice that address issues around teaching and learning with young adolescents.