Learning to be boys(2)

The school crest and gates of the Shanghai No.8 Senior High School Photos: Cai Xianmin/GT

"The school offers a string of special courses every semester designed to broaden the scope of the boys' knowledge, to cultivate their interpersonal skills, to hone their ability to think logically and express themselves, and to develop self-discipline and determination. And after long-term observation and careful study, we have also adopted a variety of different teaching styles and methods including lab experiments, open classroom discussions and brainstorming sessions that the boys have responded well to," Lu noted.

As well as the special curriculum, the boys can also choose from a range of extracurricular activities which emphasize practical, hands-on skills and physical training, Lu said.

Dai Zhongqin and Xu Ying, two Grade 11 students who are in the pilot program, are enthusiastic about the extracurricular activities. "I wasn't really good at sport when I was in the junior high school. But I have become keen on athletics and, after running every morning for some time, I'm quite good at this now," said Dai, a tall thin boy who recently came first in the school's 1,000 meters race.

Principal Lu said that all the boys in the pilot scheme have to run 1,000 meters every morning. "And I've also learned to master other technical skills from courses and extracurricular activities," Dai said. He is now a capable hand at computer programming, carpentry, electro-engineering and wilderness survival skills.

"I've been losing weight and staying fit thanks to the morning running sessions and other physical exercises. And I think I am more self-motivated about studying," Xu Ying told the Global Times.

He said that even though there were no girls in the class he felt he and his classmates could develop communication and interpersonal skills by talking to their female teachers. One of the best things about the scheme, Xu said, was the mutual understanding and respect the boys now have for each other.

"Although we often have different ideas and opinions about our lessons or other topics, we always listen to each other and show respect even if we can't agree. There are never any fights or brawling in our classrooms," Xu said proudly.

His sentiments were echoed by his class monitor, Qin Jiajie. "The best thing about being in this single-sex class is the team spirit - everyone gets along with each other and sticks together. I have close friendships with several classmates. We've all managed to have some fun - even without girls," Qin told the Global Times.