According to the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) and This We Believe, educational programs for young adolescents should reflect what is best for 10 to 15 year olds based on research and experience.  Students in this phase of life are undergoing great changes - physically, morally, intellectually, psychologically, and social-emotionally. 

 

Keeping students engaged and using learning strategies that involve each student personally empower them to accept responsibility for their learning.  All content areas can benefit from project-based learning, and it gives students a chance to internalize what they learn and to share with others.  Students are exposed to real-world experiences and are able to find connections to their own interests because they are given the freedom to research and explore various sources. 

 

Collaborative work during projects can motivate and inspire middle schoolers.  Students take an active role in their learning and will not only become independent thinkers in the classroom, but in life beyond!