1. Vocabulary and Word Knowledge: Middle school students continue to expand their vocabulary, demonstrating an understanding of increasingly complex words and using more precise language in their communication.

2. Grammar and Syntax: They refine their understanding and usage of grammar rules, including more sophisticated sentence structures, verb tenses, and subject-verb agreement.

3. Reading and Writing: Students at this age should be able to read and comprehend more advanced texts independently. They develop stronger reading fluency, reading comprehension, and critical thinking skills. In terms of writing, they can compose coherent paragraphs and essays, expressing their ideas with more clarity and organization.

4. Conversation Skills: Middle school students refine their conversational skills, engaging in more complex and extended discussions, taking turns, and using appropriate conversational strategies such as staying on topic, asking questions, and actively listening to others.

5. Figurative Language: They begin to understand and use figurative language, including metaphors, similes, idioms, and proverbs, in their speech and writing.

6. Abstract Thinking and Reasoning: Middle schoolers develop the ability to think more abstractly and engage in critical thinking, considering multiple perspectives and supporting their arguments with evidence.

7. Social Language Skills: They refine their understanding of social norms and appropriate behavior in different social settings. This includes understanding sarcasm, humor, and nonverbal cues, as well as adapting their communication style based on the context.

If you have concerns about a middle school student's speech and language skills, it is advisable to consult with a speech-language pathologist for a comprehensive evaluation and guidance.