Abstract: | Incorporating the academic engaged time model, the present study investigated behavioral differences between high- and low-achieving inner-city children. Two hundred observations of “on-task”-“off task” behavior of 136 children within the elementary grades (1 through 6) were noted during reading and mathematics lessons. Findings suggested that high- and low-achieving inner-city children spend a large proportion of time actively engaged in academic tasks, with high achievers spending somewhat more time than low achievers. No significant developmental trends were noted, and discrepant academic attainment levels of children are discussed in terms of an “academic learning time” model. |