Teaching the Male Brain: How Boys Think, Feel, and Learn in School

No, you’re not imagining it: boys really do learn differently from girls. When you discover how to reach them, you can help them succeed beyond anyone’s expectations—even their own. Updated with the latest research in neuroscience and developmental psychology, this bestselling guide translates theory into tested and refined strategies that are practical and ready to be put to work immediately. Features include

• A discussion of cognitive gender differences and how they relate to learning
• An analysis of the benefits and challenges of single-sex classrooms
• Tried and true techniques for differentiating learning in co-ed classroom
• Cutting-edge strategies for reaching boys with ADHD, learning disabilities, social and emotional differences, and more
• Detailed case studies and real-life dilemmas

The boys in your class are counting on you. Keep them in the game and lead them to success with this must-have resource.

Table of Contents

Foreword Bradley Adams

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Introduction

• Substantiating Research
• How the Book Is Structured
• Learning Objectives

Part I. Sex and Gender Differences in the Classroom

Chapter 1. Brain Basics

• Are Brains Gendered?
• Anatomy of the Brain
• Sex Differences in Brain Function
• Cognitive Skills

Chapter 2. Sensory Differences

• Vision
• Hearing
• Touch
• Learning Modalities
• Sensory Differences and Learning

Chapter 3. Physical Differences

• Activity Levels
• Gross Motor Development Versus Fine Motor Development
• Targeting
• Handedness and Dexterity
• Growth Patterns
• Physical Differences and Learning

Chapter 4. Cognitive Differences

• Verbal and Language Skills
• Practice the Skills Necessary for the SAT, ACT, NAEP, and Other Standardized Tests
• Spatial Abilities
• Learning Modalities
• Strategy Development
• Cognitive Differences and Learning

Part II. Societal and Biological Influences

Chapter 5. ADHD and Learning Disabilities

• Attention—ADHD
• Medication
• The “At Risk” Student
• Sleep
• Attentional and Learning Problems

Chapter 6. Social and Emotional Differences

• The Brain and Emotions
• Emotional Vocabulary
• Aggression and Bullying
• Competition and Cooperation
• Puberty
• Alcohol and Drugs
• Social Influence on School
• School and Masculinity
• Learning Applications
• Emotions and Learning

Chapter 7. Students With Other Risks

• Teachers
• Culture
• Adults
• Boys in Foster Care
• Boys With Cultural, Linguistic, or Socioeconomic Differences and School

Part III. Strategies and Resources for Teaching the Male Brain

Chapter 8. Classroom Management Strategies

• Home Influence
• Discipline
• Self-Control
• Technology
• Classroom Management and Learning

Chapter 9. Content-Specific Suggestions

• English/Language Arts
• Mathematics
• History/Social Studies
• Science
• Foreign Languages
• Fine Arts, Music, and Drama
• Computer Skills
• Individual Disciplines and Learning

Chapter 10. Gendered Education: Teaching Boys and Girls Together

• Boys and Girls as Learners
• Sex and Gender Differences in the Classroom
• Gendered Education and Learning

Chapter 11. Effective Teaching

• Differentiated Instruction
• Multiple Intelligences
• Learning Modalities
• Unit Design
• Empowering Boys as Learners
• Test-Taking Strategies
• Final Words

Chapter 12. Resources and Other Helps

• Books of Interest
• Rubrics
• Learning Style Assessments
• Resources
• Books for Boys Ages 6–9
• Books for Boys Ages 9–13
• Books for Boys Ages 13–18
• Graphic Novels

References

Index

"This book can be described as the definitive A-Z of teaching boys. Everything, from what makes boys tick to helping them fulfill their potential, is covered in this book. There is a good blend between cognitive theories and psychology, and I found it difficult to put the book down because it answers so many of the questions raised, on a daily basis, in boys’ schools by staff and parents. It was refreshing to finally find a book that not only explains the uniqueness of boys but provides the solutions that helps them succeed academically. The book clarifies in readable and understandable language many intuitive feelings that teachers have when teaching boys. Every teacher in a boys’ school, or a co-ed school for that matter, should have a copy because it is so refreshing to find a book that focuses on the importance of skills in teaching. It is a remarkable and delightful book which, having been crafted from the writer’s own experience, makes it hugely relevant."
- Theroshene Naidoo, Deputy Head, Northcote Lodge Prep School for Boys, London, UK

"Teaching the Male Brain, Second Edition by Dr. Abigail James is a holistic tool for educators, parents, and/or individuals committed to effectively understand, teach, support, and guide the development of young men in their care. Dr. James provides a clear lens into the intricate details of the thoughts and actions of the boys in our lives."
- Nakia Douglas, Principal, Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy, Dallas, TX

"Dr. James states that 'It is important to approach teaching from a gendered perspective, as not all students learn the same way and teaching them as if they did will not change that fact.' This is the perspective we ask our teachers to take at Allen Middle School in Greensboro, NC. We have several blended classes consisting of heterogeneous, all girls and all boys. Dr. James helped our teachers realize the uniqueness of each student. The strategies and concepts she shared during staff development helped us launch blended classes to best meet the needs of our students. Her book is a practical tool for the classroom teacher. It provides teachers with a plethora of practical, promising practices to motivate and encourage students to perform at or above their potentiality level."
- Shelia Gorham, Principal