Submitted by Lynn (not verified) on August 21, 2006 - 01:51.
I was searching for ways to reach my male students in the classroom, and stumbled in here. I teach 7th grade science (Life Science) in the suburbs of Atlanta. There is a huge difference in classroom performance between boys and girls at my school.
I did notice last year, the boys that were involved in school sports performed much better in the classroom. During the season of whatever sport the kids played, the boys performed better in the classroom. During the off-seasons, their performance declined and their behavior turned from wonderful to unacceptable.
There are so many variables, but I have two guesses.... either they have an outlet for the testosterone surge they experience at this age when they play sports, or they have more responsibility and accountability due to their position as a representative of the school and not wanting to upset their coach.
Another guess would relate to amount of responsibilities at home. Many boys at this age have little responsibilities, and mothers are even doing their homework in some cases. Girls at this age typically have more responsibilities at home. Could this be part of the difference?
I'm just speculating. The truth is, I am extremely frustrated as a teacher because I don't how to reach the boys to help them succeed academically. I am looking everywhere for answers.
I was searching for ways to
Submitted by Lynn (not verified) on August 21, 2006 - 01:51.
I was searching for ways to reach my male students in the classroom, and stumbled in here. I teach 7th grade science (Life Science) in the suburbs of Atlanta. There is a huge difference in classroom performance between boys and girls at my school.
I did notice last year, the boys that were involved in school sports performed much better in the classroom. During the season of whatever sport the kids played, the boys performed better in the classroom. During the off-seasons, their performance declined and their behavior turned from wonderful to unacceptable.
There are so many variables, but I have two guesses.... either they have an outlet for the testosterone surge they experience at this age when they play sports, or they have more responsibility and accountability due to their position as a representative of the school and not wanting to upset their coach.
Another guess would relate to amount of responsibilities at home. Many boys at this age have little responsibilities, and mothers are even doing their homework in some cases. Girls at this age typically have more responsibilities at home. Could this be part of the difference?
I'm just speculating. The truth is, I am extremely frustrated as a teacher because I don't how to reach the boys to help them succeed academically. I am looking everywhere for answers.