Significant gender differences favouring boys were found among Norwegian sixth-grade students in total mathematical test score and in the sub-scores of numeracy, measurement, fractions, geometry and word problems. No significant differences were found in addition and subtraction or in multiplication and division. Items requiring an understanding of decimal numbers discriminated in favour of the boys. The study revealed the dominance of boys in the upper ranges of ability in mathematics, showing that small average gender differences can hide large differences in a highly able group of students.
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