ABSTRACT
This chapter explores middle level literacy from its roots in the early grades to considerations for the current time period and on to future hopes and possibilities. The author begins with a discussion of cognitive flexibility, principled eclecticism, and wickedity. These three areas provide a foundation for the author’s overall theoretical positioning. The author premiers them as binding threads for the instruction and growth of literacy for the years before, during, and following the middle level grades. A discussion of middle level literacy would not be complete without a nod to the important role of technology. The same holds true for the home, school, and classroom environments. Finally, and of central importance for any exploration of middle level literacy, social justice and educational equity assume prominence.
