COURSE DESCRIPTION This course will allow participants to build a foundational understanding of young adolescence using the major concepts and theories from the literature about YA development. Participants will also critique developmental theory with consideration of intersections of individual identities including race, class, and gender. This knowledge will be applied to develop a vision for their own classrooms grounded in understanding of young adolescent identity development. ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS How does your own young adolescent experience shape you? How do we understand early adolescence (including their physical, sexual, social, emotional, moral and cognitive development)? How do gender, race, ethnicity, class and sexual orientation influence young adolescent identity development? How do we create learning environments and experiences that are responsive to YA development? COURSE LEARNING TARGETS Young Adolescent Development 1.1 I can demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and moral characteristics, needs, and interests of young adolescents. 1.2 I can articulate the implications of diversity on the development of young adolescents, including considering the of gender, race, ethnicity, class and sexual orientation and other aspects of individual identity. 1.3 I can use my understanding of young adolescent development, together with cultural responsiveness, to conceptualize how I will create healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging learning environments for all young adolescents. 1.4 I can reflect on my own young adolescent experience and articulate how it can influence my own teaching practice. Professionalism 2.2 I can participate fully and professionally in my learning community. COURSE READINGS Association for Middle Level Education (formerly National Middle School Association). This We Believe: Keys to Educating Young Adolescents. Westerville, OH: NMSA. Brown, D. & Knowles, T. (2014). What Every Middle School Teacher Should Know. Portsmouth, NH. (Third Edition)