Final answer:
Prior to English classes, boys typically attended mathematics, Latin classics, and physical education, among other subjects, in various historical educational systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historical accounts suggest that before attending an English class, boys from various historical periods and locations would attend classes like mathematics, Latin classics, and physical education.
In some educational systems, such as that of ancient times or Renaissance grammar schools, boys would concentrate on reading, writing, mathematics, music, and the memorization and performance of Latin plays.
Likewise, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, before entering English classes, boys would often attend classes that emphasized arithmetic as well as other subjects like history or languages as part of their basic education. Physical education also played a significant role in preparing boys for military service, which, in many cultures, was compulsory.
The boys attended three classes before English:
Reading
Writing
Mathematics
These subjects were part of their formal schooling curriculum that started at the age of seven. Additionally, the boys also had physical education classes to prepare them for future military service.