Feature Article
Middle Grades is a Time of Multiple Transitions
Early adolescents are going through many transitions. They are starting the transition from childhood to adulthood, which brings dramatic changes in the body, brain, and behavior. They are also transitioning from elementary grades to some configuration of middle grades. Together, all these transitions can create a “perfect storm” and that is the reason for the need of unique school environments and unique educators to teach these unique people.
Research studies have demonstrated that the classic decline in motivation that happens as students enter middle grades may not be due to their intense focus on their social lives. It also may not be due directly to the swift physiological changes taking place. It may, however, be due to a mismatch between school environment and the changing developmental needs of middle grades students. These needs are intricately woven as the body, brain, and behavior transform.
Rapid growth spurts make the body disproportionate and the young adolescent feels terribly self-conscious. At this age, their self-esteem is based abnormally high on their body image so how they look becomes all important. Together, the disproportionate body and the major influence of their body image make the chances of having a “bad hair day” quite high. Perception also plays a role in adolescent egocentrism and the belief that everyone is looking at them.
Hormones play a role in changing the adolescent sleep cycle and causing extreme fluctuations in energy levels. However, one of the most significant recent discoveries made was the transition through which the frontal lobe in the brain undergoes. This results in impulsivity, taking risks, and misinterpreting facial expressions along with misinterpreting what adults may say.
Understanding the developmental research regarding middle grades students and then teaching to support their physical, mental, and emotional growth will contribute greatly towards keeping students engaged in school particularly as they prepare to transition from elementary grades and then onto high school. Find both parenting and teaching tips related to transitions and the brain in the adolescent development essay related to Transitions.
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