Middle Level Teacher Education: Middle Grades Organization

Contemporary middle level schools are structured specifically to respond to the unique nature of young adolescents. Explores these structures in relation to middle schoolers' developmental and cultural needs. Topics include personalization, teaming, grouping, scheduling, transition planning, and family involvement.

Graduate students or PACE students; Asynchronous online

Contemporary middle level schools are structured specifically to respond to the unique nature of young adolescents. This course explores these structures in relation to middle schoolers’ developmental needs. Topics include personalization, teaming, grouping, scheduling, transition planning, and family involvement. Course participants are placed on simulated interdisciplinary teams and experience the many decisions required to function effectively as a 21st century middle grades team teacher. Essential Questions: How can I develop a team culture and community that is safe and supportive for a diverse population of young adolescents through applying research-based middle grades practices? How do I design culturally responsive and developmentally appropriate middle grades organizational structures and practices that foster purposeful learning and meaningful relationships?

Your grade for this course will be based on your proficiency in the learning objectives for this course. Each assignment you complete this semester has been designed to assess your proficiency in one or more of the course learning objectives. Throughout the semester, as you complete assessments, you will be provided with ongoing feedback. All assignments will receive a traditional letter grade, in addition to feedback and will need to be revised if you receive below an Emergent (B) on them. In addition, you will reflect on the course learning objectives throughout the semester, providing evidence that demonstrates your current level of proficiency.