Introduction

Abstract

Middle school teachers can describe the differences in their students' intellectual, physical and emotional development and how those developmental differences make meeting the needs of middle school students especially difficult. Yet, middle school physical education programs have the potential to engage students in a variety of challenging, exciting and enriching activities to help their students embrace a physically active lifestyle. In particular, middle school teachers have the potential to develop their students' abilities to strategize with teammates, work together to solve movement problems, and set personal goals for improving both skill performance and fitness levels. The purpose of this feature is to offer a window through which the reader can witness the work of middle school physical education teachers who have been successful in capturing the interests of students and helping them feel competent in their ability to engage in a variety of physical activities. In addition, readers will be able to see how effective middle school programs address the emotional and social needs of middle school students as these students struggle to make sense of their physical development and emerging personalities. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR