Single-Gender Program Overview
Single-gender classes is a choice option offered in Greenwood School District 50. A single-gender program is one in which boys and girls are taught seperately for some portion of the day. Students in these programs are taught the same academic standards as their peers; however, the instructonal approach for teaching these standards is different.
Single-gender classes are options for students in grades 2-8. Second through fifth grade classes are housed at Woodfields Elementary School and sixth through eighth grade classes are housed at Brewer Middle School. Students from across the district are invited to apply for inclusion in this program. Transportation will be provided for students who are not zoned for Woodfields Elementary or Brewer Middle School.
Greenwood District 50 is committed to providing quality educational experiences for all students. The single-gender program is a district-wide choice option aimed at improving student achievement through the use of differentiated instructional strategies. These strategies are supported by research on “best practices” and gendered education.
Single-Gender Initiative
Program Information for the 2012-2013 School Year
What is the Single-Gender Initiative?
The Single-Gender Initiative is a Greenwood District 50 choice option that is available for students in grades 2-8. Single-Gender classes (classes with all boys or all girls) are designed to address specific learning styles and needs of students. The goal of the single-gender initiative is to improve student achievement by providing an environment that is differentiated in order to accommodate the learning preferences of males and females. The instructional program will consist of the South Carolina Academic Standards in English language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science. At the elementary level, students will remain in their single gender classes for related arts. At the middle school level, students will be in mixed gender related arts classes.
What are the Benefits of a Single-Gender Program?
* Quality instruction by highly qualified teachers who
incorporate gender-specific strategies
* Opportunities to develop leadership skills
* Instruction in the Academic Standards using a differentiated
instructional approach
* A nurturing environment that is designed to help them become
confident, capable learners
* An alternative instructional environment for learning
* The opportunity to participate in enrichment activities designed to
emphasize the need to strive for excellence
| Typical Benefits for Girls More interest in and enthusiasm for math and science More interest in classroom participation More likely to accept and develop leadership roles Fewer gender distractions More enjoyment of school | Typical Benefits for Boys More development of reading and writing skills More focused participation More open to discuss issues and concerns More likely to develop a positive attitude toward school Fewer gender distractions |
