Assessment of the Grade Six Learners' Performance in Math Challenge Activities and Difficulties Encountered: Basis for the Development of a Proposed Action Plan

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Mathematics activities require critical thinking and problem-solving skills. However, most students show troublesome performance in the subject itself, particularly in the Math Challenge activities. Hence, when Bukal Sur Elementary School participated in the MTAP Division Math Challenge 2018, the Grade 6 team gained 64% in the written elimination. Although qualified, they had 53% performance in the Division Finals. The researcher, as a second time MTAP Math Challenge trainer, aspired to craft an Action Plan that aims to develop the skills of the learners in such type of Math questions, not only for contest purposes but for a more solid foundation of their Mathematics competencies.

METHODS

The researcher made use of the Quasi-Experimental method of research. The study considered the results of the Pretest and Posttest given to Grade Six-Humble learners in evaluating their performance level in Math. At its midst, different strategies and compilation of MTAP test materials were used. This study also used the descriptive-evaluative method of research for analysis of the significant difference in their mastery level before and after the interventions made. This study also used the qualitative method of research for the difficulties encountered. All the obtained findings were considered in the development of the Action Plan proposed for implementation in the succeeding school year, SY 2019-2020.

RESULTS

The Pretest results revealed that the mastery levels of the respondents were Mastery Least with 36 percent MPS. On the other hand, the Posttest results showed that the respondents had Nearing Mastery with 53 percent MPS. Though the performance remained below 70 percent, the BSES Grade 6 team showed improvement in the MTAP Math Challenge 2019 being 1st Place in the Written Elimination and ranked 10 all-over the participating schools in the Division. It was also supported by the statistical finding that there is a significant difference in the mastery level during the Pretest and the Posttest. Difficulties such as time constraints, poor mastery of the basic skills and others were also determined. All these were considered in the development of the proposed Action Plan.

DISCUSSIONS

The findings denoted that with intensive efforts to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, gradual improvement can be achieved. The proposed action plan, which is open for further improvement, may be readily implemented for the next school year and will not be limited to the Grade Six level alone.