ElEd 3202: Middle Level Theory
Study Guide for Final Exam
Chapter 1
Characteristics of junior highs vs. middle schools
Developmentally responsive
Chapter 2
How do we know when adolescents are in trouble? What are some signs?
What are middle school students going through in terms of cognitive, psycho-social, and physical development?
Chapter 3
What are considered the related domains? Why are they important?
What are the core domains/core curriculum?
Learner-centered vs. subject-centered
Chapter 4
What are the 5 levels of curriculum?
What are the roles of teachers and learners in an integrated curriculum?
What is the rationale for an integrated curriculum?
What is exploratory curriculum?
Chapter 5
What is block scheduling? What do the different schedules look like (flexible interdisciplinary, alternating day, etc.)?
What organizational factors might be present in middle schools? Be able to describe looping, multiage classrooms, and interdisciplinary teaming.
Chapter 6
What is a positive classroom environment? What are some essential elements in building a positive classroom environment?
Review basic theorists such as Ginott, Dreikurs, the Canters, Jones.
Chapter 7
What types of thinkers are middle school students?
Define interdisciplinary teams and discuss their benefits.
Chapter 8
Considering the diverse interests and abilities of your future students, how would you make your subject area relevant to adolescents?
How do different scheduling options influence your instruction?
What types of modifications might be appropriate for gifted or struggling learners?
Chapter 9
Be familiar with all tables:
Withitness, p. 196
Productive time on task, p. 198
Intended objectives, p. 199
Opportunities to succeed, p. 200
Academic success, p. 204
Chapter 10
What are the strengths and weakness of traditional assessments like standardized tests, multiple choice items, true/false, matching, short answer, and essay?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of performance assessments and authentic assessments?
What is the difference between a performance assessment and an authentic assessment?
Define: diagnostic, formative, summative assessment
Chapter 11
What is the teacher’s role in providing guidance and support for middle school students and working with counselors? P. 247
What needs of 10-14 year olds can guidance programs address? P. 245
Describe a typical advisor-advisee program (p. 250).
Chapter 12
What are some reasons parents might not be involved in school (p. 264, 272)?
What are some ways teachers/schools can reengage parents?
Why is it important for parents, families, and communities to be included in schooling (p. 263)?