For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is for students in grades 7 to 12. Youth in this age group are becoming more independent, a lot more involved with their peer groups and beginning to define their future goals. The following slides will share some basic facts about the physical, mental, emotional, and social growth of this age group.

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology Physical Growth Boys especially continue to experience rapid growth spurts. Sleep patterns change, with many youth starting to stay awake later at night and sleeping in later in the morning. Personal hygiene becomes important as this age group starts to sweat more and to develop acne Students become either more or less physically active and need encouragement and support to set healthy eating and exercise patterns

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology Mental Growth  Middle teens are beginning to think about future plans and opportunities. Youth are exploring career plans, college visits, part-time jobs, and conversing with different adults about career paths.  During this time middle teens are imagining new things that challenge the status quo.  There is often trouble with understanding compromise and they may label inconsistencies as hypocrisy.  Independence is at an all time high  Teens are aware of their talents and abilities and any new skills and abilities gained are used to move towards independence.

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology  Two important goals during middle teen years are independence and identity, although neither will be achieved during this period.  Factors in achieving these goals include: satisfactory adjustment to sexuality and definition of career goals.  Unsettled emotions may case youth of these ages to be stormy or withdrawn.  However, in general these teens will pride themselves on increased ability to be responsible in the eyes of themselves, their peers, and adult Emotional Growth

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology  Relationship skills are becoming more well developed and friendships are usually close and long lasting.  They often want to belong to a group but also yearn to be recognized as individuals. Social Growth  Leader/member relations should begin moving from director/follower to advisor/independent worker. Although their independence is important, adult leadership is still needed and important.  This age group despises “busy-work” and meaningless activities.

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology Sources: Karns, J., & Myers-Wells, J. (n.d.). Ages and Stages of Child and Youth Development.. Retrieved, from ney/AgesAndStages.pdf ney/AgesAndStages.pdf Mentoring Through Technology to Promote Student Achievement. (2003, February 1).. Retrieved, from pages: 22-25http://ici.umn.edu/ementoring/CTS_Training_Manual.pdf