Developmental Characteristics

Students in grades six through eight are changing physically, socially, emotionally,
and intellectually. During this time, children are struggling to define themselves as individuals and in relation to others. They begin to question the role of adults in their lives, and their peers take on increasing importance. They face many unique challenges as they struggle to find themselves in this transition between childhood and adulthood.

Generally, children who are 10 to 15 years of age and in grades six through eight are similar in the ways they learn. They tend to learn best by doing, experiencing, and using their senses. They often require concrete models and have a need to make relevant associations between what they learn and their everyday experiences.

 

PHYSICAL	INTELLECTUAL	EMOTIONAL	SOCIAL
Uneven physical growth Rapid brain growth Restlessness and periods of fatigue Metabolic and hormonal fluctuation Periods of high energy and lathargy Underdeveloped sense of time and space	Short attention span Needs relevance in learning Responds to choice Varied ability levels Varied interests Inquisitive Concrete thinking Orientation to the present	Fluctuating emotions High level of anxiety Extreme sensitivity Ambivalence Behavior Fluctuationg moods Extreme self-consciousness	Desire for independence Sensitivity to peer pressure Self and others Reclusive behavior Changing interests, needs and priorities Needs to focus on role models Acceptance Dealing with bullying issues