Identify two major influences on a child’s academic achievement during middle childhood.

The correct choice highlights the significant role that the home environment and teacher expectations play in influencing a child’s academic achievement during middle childhood.

The home environment includes the resources available to children, such as books, educational materials, and a conducive atmosphere for learning. It encompasses parental attitudes toward education, support for homework, and encouragement of academic pursuits. A nurturing and stimulating home can foster a positive attitude toward learning and enhance a child's motivation to succeed academically.

Equally important are teacher expectations, which can greatly affect a student’s performance. When teachers have high expectations and communicate confidence in a child's abilities, it can lead to increased motivation and effort from the student. Research has shown that students often rise to the expectations set by their teachers, impacting their academic engagement and achievement.

This combination of a supportive home environment and positive teacher expectations creates a foundation for greater academic success in middle childhood, thereby highlighting their critical influence on a child’s educational outcomes.