Boy Question: How To Teach Boys To Succeed In School

The book "Boys Don't Try?" addresses the barriers to male academic success and provides practical advice for teachers to tackle the "Boy Question" in the classroom. It offers insights into what makes boys tick and how to design effective curriculums to ensure they can acquire powerful knowledge.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Following on from the immense success of Boys Don't Try?, this essential new book answers nine key questions about how teachers and schools can best tackle boys' academic underperformance. For decades, schools have grappled with the most significant barriers to male academic success: a lack of motivation to succeed, poor attitudes to learning, lower literacy levels, and a reluctance to read for pleasure or write at length. In this compelling book, Mark Roberts provides clear answers about how teachers can tackle 'The Boy Question.' Each chapter answers a frequently asked question about how best to teach boys, outlining the issue and demonstrating what can be done about it. Informed by a wealth of research and the author's personal experience of successfully teaching boys, this book offers an abundance of practical advice for the busy classroom teacher. It will shine a light on what makes boys tick and how we can design effective curriculums to ensure they can best acquire powerful knowledge. With practical advice and examples to help address anti-social attitudes and stem the cycle of boys' underachievement, this is essential reading for all teachers and school leaders.

Introduction:
The educational landscape has long been plagued by the issue of boys' academic underperformance, which has persisted for decades. Despite numerous efforts and initiatives, the challenges faced by boys in the classroom continue to be a significant concern for educators and policymakers alike. In this book, we aim to provide a comprehensive and practical guide for teachers and schools in addressing this issue and promoting boys' academic success.

Barriers to Male Academic Success:
One of the primary barriers to male academic success is a lack of motivation to succeed. Boys often struggle to see the relevance of school and education to their lives, leading to a disengagement from learning. This lack of motivation can be attributed to various factors, including a lack of positive role models, a sense of disempowerment, and a belief that boys are not capable of achieving high academic standards.

Poor Attitudes to Learning:
Another significant barrier to male academic success is poor attitudes to learning. Boys may exhibit apathy, resistance, and a negative attitude towards school, which can hinder their ability to learn and achieve. This can be influenced by factors such as a lack of interest in subjects, a perception that school is boring, and a sense of frustration with academic expectations.

Lower Literacy Levels:
Lower literacy levels are also a significant barrier to male academic success. Boys tend to have lower reading proficiency and vocabulary skills compared to girls, which can limit their access to knowledge and their ability to engage in academic discourse. This can be attributed to various factors, including a lack of exposure to books and reading materials, a lack of parental support, and cultural and societal norms that prioritize boys' physical activities over their intellectual development.

Reluctance to Read for Pleasure or Write at Length:
Lastly, the reluctance to read for pleasure or write at length is a barrier to male academic success. Boys may not enjoy reading or writing, which can make it challenging for them to develop critical thinking skills, express their ideas, and engage in academic discourse. This can be influenced by factors such as a lack of exposure to diverse literature, a preference for video games and other forms of entertainment, and a belief that writing is not important or relevant.

Practical Strategies for Teaching Boys:
In response to these barriers, teachers and schools can implement practical strategies to promote boys' academic success. Here are some key strategies that can be effective:

Create a Positive Learning Environment:
Teachers can create a positive learning environment that encourages boys to engage in learning and promotes their sense of belonging. This can include fostering a sense of community, providing opportunities for collaboration and teamwork, and creating a safe and supportive classroom climate.

Use Active Learning Strategies:
Active learning strategies, such as hands-on activities, group projects, and problem-solving exercises, can engage boys and promote their active participation in the learning process. These strategies can help boys develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a sense of ownership over their learning.

Encourage Positive Role Models:
Teachers can encourage positive role models, such as male teachers, coaches, and community leaders, to interact with boys and provide them with positive guidance and support. Positive role models can help boys develop a sense of self-confidence and a belief in their abilities.

Address Anti-Social Attitudes:
Anti-social attitudes, such as aggression, bullying, and a lack of empathy, can be a barrier to male academic success. Teachers can address these attitudes by promoting social skills, empathy, and conflict resolution skills. They can also provide opportunities for boys to engage in positive social interactions and build positive relationships with their peers.

Design Effective Curriculums:
Teachers can design effective curriculums that are tailored to the needs and interests of boys. This can include incorporating male-focused literature, providing opportunities for hands-on learning, and incorporating sports and physical activities into the curriculum.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the issue of boys' academic underperformance is complex and requires a multifaceted approach. By implementing these practical strategies, teachers and schools can create a positive learning environment that encourages boys to engage in learning and promotes their academic success. It is essential to recognize the unique needs and interests of boys and to provide them with the support and guidance they need to achieve their full potential.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 175 x 245 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367509118