This handbook balances research-based discussion and practical ideas. Includes a wealth of field-based and reflective activities, readings, and in-service examples. The new edition emphasizes teacher teamwork and differentiation of instruction, two of the most significant new directions in middle level education. A new chapter on different learning styles (Ch. 5) stresses developing appropriate skills to fit individual teaching styles and classrooms. Also new chapters on home, child, and middle school (Ch. 6), teacher as advisor (Ch. 9), teacher- directed instruction (Ch. 13), teaching gifted and at-risk students in regular classrooms (Ch. 14), and making seatwork work (Ch. 15) reflect some of the latest trends today.