This text uses practical applications and an accessible writing style to present a summary of psychological research on students' learning of academic subject areas. The text is organized into three main sections. 1. General principles of learning, memory, intelligence, problem-solving, and motivation that apply to any school-related skill. Unlike typical books on cognitive development, these general principles are explicitly translated to classroom practice. 2. Specific developmental trends in the acquisition of skills in the areas of reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. The reader will learn what children can understand and do at various ages in these domains. 3. Understanding gender and ethnic differences in achievement.