Assessment of the Improvement of Grade Seven-Venus Students' Competency in Addition and Subtraction of Integers Using the Net-Worth Concept

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The net worth concept uses the concept of assets and liabilities. Assets pertain to positive numbers and liabilities pertain to negative numbers. Through different activities, students will understand how to add and subtract integers and know the sign that they will affix to the answer. Using the net worth concept, students were able to understand addition and subtraction of integers. Students were able to cope with other lessons in Math requiring the knowledge on addition and subtraction of integers and this leads them to become critical thinkers and problem-solvers.

METHODS

This study made use of quantitative and qualitative data to assess the improvement of the competency of Grade Seven Venus students in addition and subtraction of integers. The quantitative data used were the scores of the students from the pre-and post-tests. The qualitative data were the students' and teacher's reflection. The result of the study was a basis for reflection of the current practice of teaching addition and subtraction of integers.

RESULTS

Before the implementation of the instruction using the net worth concept to add and subtract integers, Grade Seven -Venus were given a Pre-test and the class got a mean percentage score of 33.33%. After the instruction, a Post-test was given and the students got a mean percentage score of 65.83%. The figures showed a significant improvement in the performance of the participants in adding and subtracting integers. Based on the students' reflection or journal, the participants found the instruction using the net worth concept more challenging and they enjoyed learning addition and subtraction of integers. Some participants said they were happy because they improved their pre-test result. Students found it difficult when the assets and liabilities were more than one. They understood the net worth concept but, according to one participant, she found it hard answering addition and subtraction of integers though she understood the net worth concept. There were 9 students who said they did not have any negative experience.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the findings, the use of the net worth concept is effective. It can be applied to my students and I will share this also with my colleagues teaching Mathematics 7. Miller's net worth concept in teaching addition and subtraction of integers was also effective for my students. Based on the students' positive and negative experiences' journal, it is also clearly seen that they enjoyed and learned the lesson using the net worth concept.