Encourage boys and girls equally in any activity. Gender inequality arises in a classroom when the teacher put students into traditional gender roles such as having girls work on a home economics project while boys work on math or science projects. Keep boys and girls together and avoid segregating the class according to gender. Likewise, occasionally have students perform non-traditional gender tasks. These approaches teach students that activities are not determined by gender.
Use a predetermined, objective system for calling on students. Studies have proven that teachers subconsciously call on and praise male students more often than female students. A gender-neutral method for calling on students ensures that all receive equal attention.
Teach students about people who have broken gender barriers. When students learn about men and women who have performed non-traditional tasks they will learn that not only are they not defined by their gender, but that other people have achieved success in a field not typically associated with their gender. For instance, in May and prior to Memorial Day weekend, teach students about the Indianapolis 500 and how Danica Patrick became the first female to lead laps during the famous race.
Be aware of your own behavior when interacting with students. Even the youngest students recognize when they are treated differently. For example, if a child's feelings are hurt and he is crying, refrain from telling him to stop "acting like a girl." Responses like this invalidate a student's feelings and send a message to the opposite sex that there is something wrong with their behavior. Instead, when responding to the emotional needs of students, use the opportunity to find out what is bothering the student and how you can help the student to positively handle the situation.