Simplified Technique on Enhancing Problem Solving Skills in MAthematics ofGrade-6 Pupils

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Problem solving is one of the least learned skills of every learner. Several researches found out that poor comprehension was one of the root causes why learners encounter difficulty in solving word problems. In order to solve word problem, one should read first, analyze the whole word problem, then solve. In this study, learners were exposed in different mathematical key words and mastered simplified technique on solving word problem this technique were named as Project ReTrO (Recognized, Translate and Operate) that may help to enhance their problem solving skills. Through mastering this simplified technique, the pupils will easily analyze word problem by recognizing operational key words, translate word probleminto equation, and easily operate the equation.

METHODS

Forty (40) items mastery test were constructed by the researcher to measure the level of problem solving skills of the pupils before and after the intervention. Data was gathered through quantitative analysis for pre-test and post-test of the action research from all grade 6 pupils before and after the project implementation. The results of pretest and post-test were obtained to analyze if there is a significant increase on the problem solving skillsof the pupils.

RESULTS

All thirty-eight (38) grade 6 pupils served as the respondents of this action research. Data was gathered and analyzed statistically after pre-test and post-test, it was found out that pre-test got a mean score of 2.24 with standard deviation of 1.88 and after the implementation, post-test increased the mean score to 6.45 with standard deviation of 1.69. Based on the result of the study, Project ReTrO significantly increased the pupils’ problem solving skills.

DISCUSSIONS

Through the results of the study, the researcher recommends that pupils need to be acquainted first to the operational key words of Mathematics and practice technique on translating word problem into equation in order to operate the problem easily and obtain answers accurately. To summarize, mastering mathematical keywords and simplified technique on solving word problem can help the pupils to enhance their problem solving skills.: