French Students Rank Near Bottom in Global Math and Science Study

The 2023 TIMSS report highlights persistent low performance, widening inequalities, and challenges in math education reform in France.

• The 2023 TIMSS study ranks French CM1 and 4e students among the lowest in math and science compared to other OECD and EU countries.
• France's average score of 484 in CM1 math is well below the EU average of 524, with 15% of students not meeting the basic proficiency level.
• Gender disparities in math performance have worsened, with CM1 boys now scoring 23 points higher than girls, up from a 13-point gap in 2019.
• Socioeconomic inequality remains a significant issue, with France among the most unequal OECD countries in terms of academic outcomes.
• Experts call for better teacher training, active learning methods, and earlier introduction of key concepts like fractions to improve outcomes.

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