Why do boys underachieve - GCSE and coursework (Internal)

Question 1

What does Godard argue about the impact of coursework on boys achievement ?

Answer 1

Gorad (2005) found that the gender gap in achievement was fairly constant, however it increased sharply in the year in which coursework was introduced. Gorard concludes that the gender gap in achievement is a product of the changes system of assessment rather than the failing of boys

Question 2

Why do Mitos and Brown argue that coursework causes boys to underachieve and girls to do better?

Answer 2

Mitos and Brown explain the trend- They conclude that girls are more successful in coursework because they are more conscientious better organised than boys
E.g- Girls spend more time on their work, take more time and are better at meeting deadlines

Question 3

How does Elwood evaluate the above claims ?

Answer 3

Elwood (2005) argued that although coursework has some influence, it is unlikely to be the only cause of the gender gap because exams have much more influence than coursework in final grades