Help girls develop positive attitudes toward science and math. This is especially important in middle school, when girls are in their early teens. Develop a classroom atmosphere that encourages participation. Boys call out answers more often than girls, yet teachers continue to encourage boys more than girls. Encourage girls to participate in class discussions, projects, and experiments, and provide opportunities for cooperative learning.
Girls generally prefer to work in groups because it reduces feelings of competitiveness.
Provide girls with access to women mentors and role models by forming partnerships with local businesses and community organizations. References American Association of University Women. How Schools Shortchange Girls . Backes, J. S. 1994. Heller, R. S., and C. D. Martin.