Education - Gender Differences In Achievement Flashcards
What is the gender gap in achievement at GCSE?
Around 10 percentage points.
The gap reflects the difference in performance between boys and girls at this level.
How do girls perform compared to boys in Key Stages 1 to 3?
Girls consistently do better, especially in English.
This trend highlights the early academic advantages girls have over boys.
What percentage more likely are boys to have statements of special educational needs?
Boys are two and a half times more likely.
This statistic indicates a significant disparity in educational needs.
What external factor has improved women’s rights and opportunities?
Impact of Feminism.
Feminism has played a crucial role in changing societal perceptions and policies regarding gender.
What did McRobbie (1994) note about the portrayal of women in magazines?
Magazines in the 1970s emphasized marriage and housewives, while now they feature assertive, independent women.
This shift reflects broader changes in societal attitudes towards women’s roles.
What effect does the increased divorce rate have on women’s aspirations?
Encourages the idea it is unwise to rely on men.
This change promotes greater independence and the pursuit of better qualifications.
What was the significance of the 1970 Equal Pay Act?
Encouraged girls to aim for better careers and financial independence.
This legal change marked a significant shift in gender roles and expectations.
According to O’Connor (2006), how are marriage and children viewed by girls in the 1970s?
Seen as less important.
This reflects a shift in priorities towards education and career aspirations.
What impact do equal opportunities policies have on education?
Feminist ideas lead to teachers being more sensitive to gender issues.
This helps create a more equitable educational environment.
What do Gist and WISE policies aim to achieve?
Encourage girls to pursue traditionally male-dominated fields.
These policies help break down gender stereotypes in education.
How do changes in assessment methods favor girls?
Girls are more successful in coursework.
This success is attributed to their conscientiousness and organizational skills.
What does French (1993) say about classroom attention?
Boys get more classroom attention than girls.
This can lead to disparities in engagement and academic performance.
What are hyper-heterosexual feminine identities?
Investing time and money into making themselves ‘glamourous’.
This reflects a cultural emphasis on appearance among girls.
What dilemma do working-class girls face in education?
Gaining symbolic capital or educational capital.
This highlights the conflict between social identity and academic success.
How do boys’ reading habits affect their literacy?
Parents put less effort into reading with male children.
This lack of support can hinder boys’ performance across various subjects.