Early life adversity influences the diurnal cortisol rhythm, yet the relative influence of different characteristics of adversity remains unknown. In this study, we examine how developmental timing (childhood vs. adolescence), severity (major vs. minor), and domain of early life adversity relate to diurnal cortisol rhythms in late adolescence. We…

This study examines development along Perry's intellectual and ethical scale among three successive graduating classes of students identified as gifted and talented in mathematics and science. Perry posits that intellectual development proceeds from a basic dualism through nine stages ("positions") and culminates with a sense of personal identify…

It is important to understand the biological, psychological, and social pressures facing modern adolescents in order to use art education as a uniting force in the evolution of education. These pressures are discussed and the role of art as a catalyst in adolescents' total education is examined. (IS)

Discusses how teaming, attaching a group of students to a block of teachers for an extended period of time, can provide a supportive environment that facilitates middle school students in their developmental tasks. Describes how one middle school in Utah uses this strategy. Includes discussion of stage theory and its impact on teaching practices.…

Currently there is a strong movement to make schools more effective by raising the quality of instruction, program design and organizational management. This paper reviews recent research in adolescent development as a major focus for determining the success or failure of specific practices in secondary schools. Factors of school effectiveness are…

Research indicates that middle school students need a great amount of physical activity to remain alert, motivated and eager to learn. A study was conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Middle-Level Athletics Task Force to gather and evaluate information about athletic programs that are compatible with young adolescents' needs…

In recent years, numerous questions have been raised in correspondence and in conferences about the education of children in grades seven and eight. In response to the interest expressed, the Elementary Schools Section of the Office of Education invited a group of educators representing administrators, supervisors, teachers, and teacher-educators…