Mathematics & Science Programs for Girls

Research describes how schools are experienced differently by females and males. As early as nursery school and continuing through college, boys and girls sitting in the same classroom, listening to the same teachers, using the same textbooks experience different educations. Many statistics show that these disparities too often shortchange girls in mathematics and science. Below you will find some resources that can be used to encourage girls to achieve success in math and science.

Association for Women in Mathematics
AWM is a nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging women and girls in the mathematical sciences. Resources for teachers and students include biographies, forums, awards, scholarships and other resources.
http://equity.edreform.net/resource/241

Association for Women in Science
AWIS is dedicated to achieving equity and full participation for women in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. Check the Web site has information about a scientist of the month, mentoring, scholarships, book reviews and discussion forum.
http://equity.edreform.net/resource/1226

Cyber Sisters
An educational tele-mentoring program in science, math and technology for middle school girls.
http://equity.edreform.net/resource/1262

Design Your Future
This Web site is designed to encourage girls to explore careers related to science, math and technology. Site contains e-mentoring, information about working women, and more.
http://equity.edreform.net/resource/503

EQUALS
EQUALS programs work to increase access and equity in mathematics for all students, particularly girls and under-represented groups. With an attention to gender and race, class and culture EQUALS presents ways of learning and thinking about mathematics that help build access and success for all students.
http://www.lawrencehallofscience.org/equals/

Engineer Girl
This Web site from the National Academy of Sciences offers information on women in engineering -- fun facts, great achievements, essay contests, and career information.
http://www.engineergirl.org/nae/cwe/egmain.nsf/?OpenDatabase

Girls Start
Girls Start provides a supportive and empowering atmosphere in which girls perform hands-on activities with robots, microscopes, environmental science, math, engineering, and technology. Girls learn science, math, engineering, and technology concepts in a fun and energetic environment. The Girls Start Web site features activities for girls as well as resources for teachers and parents.
http://www.girlstart.org/

Great Science for Girls
The Great Science for Girls Web site is designed to build the capacity of after-school centers and intermediaries to deliver evidence-based programming that will broaden and sustain girls' interest and persistence in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). 
http://www.afterschool.org/gsg   

Iwaswondering.org
Created by the National Academy of Sciences, iwaswondering.org encourages young people, especially girls, to pursue an interest in science. The Web site showcases the accomplishments of contemporary women in science and highlights the careers of some of today's most prominent scientists. The interactive resources and activities are designed for middle school students. The site also includes science labs, games, and a parent-teacher guide.
http://www.iwaswondering.org

Sally Ride Science Club
Sally Ride created this organization for girls who like science, math, and technology. It is open to upper elementary and middle school girls across the country. The club enables girls to consult with experts and role models, exchange ideas, collaborate with peers, and embark a vast array of online and off-line activities.
http://www.sallyrideclub.com/member_home.do

Updated February 2008.