On the path towards understanding Malaysian boys and girls’ interest and participation in literacy

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper explores the differences between boys and girls in the context of the literacy-based examination, presented through Malaysian national test scores, together with teacher interviews to gain insights regarding boys’ and girls’ English literacy achievement. The findings will bridge the gaps so that the scenario of literacy gender differences in schools can be better comprehended and handled by relevant parties. This study, an amalgamation of students’ performance in literacy examinations and the English teachers’ views on differences between boys and girls, can further inform the gender gap issue because schools remain central in which students gain core language literacy skills.