Middle Grades Research: Exemplary Studies Linking Theory to Practice is the first and only book to present what is perhaps the most thoroughly scrutinized group of studies focusing on middle grades education issues ever assembled. Each research project undertaken by the contributing authors herein resulted in the publication of a scholarly paper. As a collection, the ten studies featured in this book are the creme de la creme of submissions to the Middle Grades Research Journal between August 2006 and December 2008. They are the ten highest peer reviewed manuscripts examined by members of the MGRJ Review Board -- each having undergone careful "blinded" examination by three or more experts in the sub-specialty area addressed by the research study conducted. In addition, each study serves to exemplify how sound, practical research findings can be linked to classroom practice in middle grades classrooms, Middle Grades Research: Exemplary Studies Linking Theory to Practice is a must read...