This volume consists of reports on the status and function of lower secondary comprehensive school systems in four countries with contrasting cultures and educational traditions: Denmark, France, the United Kingdom as represented by Scotland, and the United States as represented by Maryland and Minnesota. The volume begins with an analysis by Professor Malcolm Skilbeck of Australia of the main issues and trends to emerge in comprehensive middle schools, based on contributions from representatives from 18 countries. Next are extensive reports, prepared by separate reviewers, on all aspects of schooling for adolescents in each of the countries . The report on Denmark is prepared by Professor Urban Dahllof of Sweden, Dr. David H. Hargreaves of the United Kingdom, and M. Andre Lafond, Inspector General of the ministry of education in France. The report on France is prepared by Professor Skilbeck, Professor Pierre Vanbergen of Belgium, and Professor Marzio Barbagli of Italy. The report on the United Kingdom (Scotland) is prepared by Professor Dahllof, Dr. Hargreaves, and M. Lafond, while the report on the United States (Maryland and Minnesota) is by Professor Skilbeck and Professor Denis Kallen of France. References are included with each report.(TE)