Brain Growth Periodization in Young Adolescents: Some Educational Implications.

Research findings in the area of brain growth periodization establish that the human brain does not grow on a constant continuum. Eighty-five to ninety percent of youngsters of average and above ability experience periods of great brain growth between ages 3-10 months, 2-4 years, 6-8 years, 10-12 years, and 14-16+ years. Mental growth data have indicated that between ages 10-12 years, an average growth of almost 40 months in mental age is experienced, while such an average drops to 7 months from ages 12-14 years. During the same intervals, it has been found that there is virtually no growth in the brain mass. This points to the need for a reexamination of middle grades educational practice in terms of expectations and strategies, because when teaching strategies are based upon cognitive levels and capacities of learners, information is learned more efficiently. (GSK)