Noting that young adolescents have unique needs and interests that require understanding to better serve adolescents both academically and personally, this book is a professional's guide to working with middle school students. The first chapter lays the foundation for the book by describing who the middle school student is and the nature of young adolescent development. The second chapter discusses the evolution of the middle school concept and the call to change schools to meet the unique needs of these students. Chapter 3 describes the elements of effective middle schools called for in the reform reports described in chapter 2. Chapter 4 explores middle school curriculum, including core curriculum, language arts, social studies, mathematics, and science. Chapter 5 explores interdisciplinary teaming and integrated curriculum, which allows teachers to develop integrated thematic units and students to see curriculum as a whole. Chapter 6 explores instructional practices including responsive practice, cooperative learning, role play, individual study topics, inquiry, and more. The final chapter describes assessment practices which are appropriate for young adolescents. The book concludes with an extensive list of resources for middle level educators such as reform reports, teacher education articles, and professional organizations. Contains 55 references. (SD)