There is no doubt that girls are as smart as boys. Therefore, their disadvantage at quiz games is not for lack of intelligence.

The girls' disadvantage is the result of the gender discrimination that they have encountered. That discrimination has taught them that it is not cool for girls to be smart and competitive. Girls have internalised the message from society that it is more important for them to look good than to achieve academic honours.

This results in a lack of self-confidence in girls, which we don't see in boys who perform publicly at quiz games. The task at hand is to help the girls to overcome this discrimination so that they can achieve their own personal best and go on to serve as role models for future generations of girls.

I am, etc.,

SALLY BARRETT-PAGE

Boulder,

Colorado