Teachers Forum
February, 2003

Answer: Some of them are every good. They are better behaved as compared with the boys and their turn out is neater. However they do not ask questions but sometimes they answer willingly.

A: It is because of their weak foundation, the language difficulties they face and because they are shy. This is unlike the boys. Even when they are not sure, they give it a try.

Q: How do you motivate them to participate? A: I call them to answer questions and where they have problems, I give them clues to the answers. They make attempts and sometimes, get it right.

A: Yes and I try to discourage the practice. But that is general as boys laugh at fellow boys and girls also laugh at boys in class.

A: They are always happy together but sometimes when they notice that the girls have benefited from donors, thy make good natured protests – "They are cheating us ooh!"

A: Because I’m a lady teacher, I usually favour them. For instance, when they do something wrong and you speak harshly to them; it makes them dull in class and even discourages them from coming to school for some days. So when they do something wrong, I have a way of correcting them.

A: I put them in mixed ability groups where stronger students help the weaker ones. Because the groups are small, the girls in these groups felt confident. I also explain difficult concepts in the local language, which in turn leads them to ask questions. Sometimes the questions come in Dagbani as well.

A: Yes, some of the girls do and they are quite willing to share ideas.

A: I talk about the logistical problems and that parents need to take a greater interest in their girl-child's education. And also to let their girls be punctual and regular in class so as not to miss topics.

A: I use both male and female examples.

A: Not really. Because I am a lady, such examples come to me easily. In fact, I have not noticed that teachers sometimes only resort to male examples.

A: Uniforms, books, school bags, sandals and to some extent, food are some of the problems. They would stay in school if these are provided for. Sometimes, the boys tease the girls but the girls do not take it badly.

A: There is an improvement in the learning process as you observe that some of them present homework that is carefully done. Class exercises are also good. This is because they pay particular attention in class. Those whose work shows improvement are those who are very regular at school.

A: There are no such relationships in this school. They are non – existent and boys do not make sexual advances towards girls.

A: I think they see me as a role-model. Many of them have expressed the wish to be teachers.

Thank you very much Fati. I’m sure you’ll continue inspiring your girls.