This article examines the relevancy of large-scale, quantitative methodologies in middle grades education research. Based on recommendations from national advocacy organizations, the need for more large-scale, quantitative research, combined with the application of more rigorous methodologies, is presented. Subsequent sections describe and discuss several topic areas relevant to middle grades research. The advantages and disadvantages of varying research designs, including cross-sectional, longitudinal, experimental, and quasi-experimental, are also presented. Additional methodological topics--such as data triangulation, validation of research designs, power analysis, and sample size estimation--are discussed in the context of large-scale, quantitative research methodologies and their relevancy to middle grades education research.