Comparing the Academic Performance of Male and Female Pupils in Private Primary Schools in Sokoto State

Abstract

This research aimed at comparing the performance of male and female pupils in private primary schools in Sokoto state. Four leading private primary schools were purposively selected to meet the target. Primary six pupils were also selected for the research since it is the certificate class. There were a total of two hundred and thirty-five primary 6 pupils from these four schools in the following proportion; Federal Government Staff School (n=89), Federal Staff School (n=23), Alheri Schools (n=29) and Blue Crescent Schools (n=94). The total population was used since they are not too many due to acceleration of pupils from primary 5 to JSS I. Using the entire population gives a more reliable result also. Academic achievement tests in English Language and Mathematics were administered to the pupils, from one school to another. Every rule of examination was observed. The test were judge to have good content validity and reliability of 0.86 (English) and 0.88 (Maths). Pupils’ scripts were retrieved, marked and scored, compiled and analyzed. The results showed that there were significant differences in the pupils’ performance generally and in English Language in particular in favour of the females. However, there was no significant difference in Mathematics performance of males and females. It was recommended that every child should be given equal opportunity and access to education irrespective of sex.