What schools are doing

Some schools are dealing with the problem of boys' underachievement through special mentoring of lower achievers and by one-to-one tutor interviews. This helps boys to focus and plan individually.

• Some schools are experimenting with single-sex classes, particularly in English (so the boys can no longer hide behind the more articulate girls) and in science and maths, where the boys feel less pressure to 'show off' without the presence of girls and can perform better.
• Teachers are planning lessons around strategies that are known to be successful.
• Workmates may be set by the teacher rather than chosen by the class. It has been found that working in male/female pairings increases the language skills a boy is forced to use by 35%.
• Boys work best if they follow a linear model, so instead of asking a class to 'plan a story', they may be asked, 'What five steps will you need to follow to write your story?
• Boys respond well to lots of activities of a short duration (as opposed to girls, who can concentrate at one activity for longer).
• New ways of recognising achievement without destroying 'street cred' are being tried.

What you can do at home

Counter the peer pressure problem. Boys who do well at school are often encouraged at home, when they can enjoy success away from the 'pack'.

• If your son has trouble approaching a piece of homework, see if he can break it into five sequential stages.
• It is important for boys to have strong role models. Dads, older brothers, uncles, friends - it can be very motivating for a boy to chat with anyone who is seen as successful in their chosen field.
• Choose books that appeal to boys - not necessarily fiction - and be seen reading them. It's is important for boys to see reading as an activity to be enjoyed by males as well as females.
• Make the most of ICT! Using the computer and the internet is very motivating for some boys.
• Celebrate success! A new CD, a trip to the ice-rink, a take-away meal - anything to show your son how proud you are of what he can do.
• The DFES Dads and Sons website is full of tips on how to approach the problem positively.

Based on an article by Lorna Smith

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