1. In general, what are the unique characteristics of young adolescents? Please list them under each category.
Physical
different growth rates growth spurts awkward and uncoordinated hormones cause restlessness and fatigue
In need of physical activity sudden outbursts of activity risky diets causing weight change vulnerable Kids in this stage are exploring their own bodies, which are all growing at different rates. Because they are unsure why they are growing the way they are, they may have sudden outbursts of energy, or solicit themselves to risky health behaviors that could result in unintended consequences.
Cognitive - Intellectual different cognitive development rates some moving towards formal operational thinking facing situations that require advancement of cognition wide range of intellectual interests; few need sustaining
Prefer active learning and interaction to passive learning and seclusion curious about world and self, not with academic subjects respond positively to opportunities to connect learning to real world develop understanding of current abilities

Kids in this stage are exploring their own minds, which are all growing at different rates. Some kids are still only thinking about problems in a concrete fashion. A larger majority of kids are able to think about problems in a formal way, trying to connect the questions being answered to their real life. Research have shown this may be particularly valuable to low-income students to become more engaged with their school environment.
Moral
Start to think about the greater good instead of how each situation benefits them
Starting to see shades of grey instead of only seeing black and white
Starting to show compassion for those who are suffering value participatory democracy quick to see flaws in others, but slow to acknowledge own flaws
Rely on trusted adults for advice