A.
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/as-gender-roles-change-are-men-out-of-step/
Vocabulary notes
Valedictorian – (US and Canadian) a person, usually the most outstanding graduate, who delivers a farewell speech at a graduation ceremony
Affirmative action – (US) a policy or programme designed to counter discrimination against minority groups and women in areas such as employment and education. Brit. equivalent: positive discrimination
Op-ed – a page of a newspaper where varying opinions are expressed by columnists, commentators, etc
K-12 system – Kindergarten through 12th Grade (US) K-12, a term used in education is a short form for the publicly-supported school grades prior to college. These grades are kindergarten (K) and the 1st through the 12th grade (1-12). (If the term were used, “13th grade” would be the first year of college.)
Answer the questions
1. What does Dean Jennifer Delahunty mean by “anti-intellectualism” of your men? How does it manifest itself?
2. According to sociologist Michael Kimmel, how did women perceive themselves 25 years ago, how do they do it now?
3. Does he agree about boys’ academic disengagement? What number is given to prove it?
4. How have economic shifts contributed to these changes?
5. How is affirmative action for boys implemented? Why is it practiced?
6. Are women equally paid?
7. How does journalist Lisa Mundy argue that with new economic challenges men have greater opportunities?
8. Are there many stay-at-home men? What does one of them, Matt Schneider, say about his decision?
9. How does he explain the gender discrepancy in education? Does Dean Delahunty agree with him? What is her message for fathers of high school boys?
10. Do you think Russia is facing the same problems?
