Project DIDS: Improving Problem Solving Skills in Mathematics of Grade V Pupils at JD Luna Elementary School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Problem solving is the process part of Mathematics that has often been overlooked in the past in favor of skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. The reason why problem solving in Mathematics is now included in our curriculum is that it bases students' mathematical development on their current knowledge. Others say that it is an interesting and enjoyable way to learn Mathematics and it is a way to learn new mathematics with greater understanding and it produces positive attitudes towards the subject. Therefore, it is essential for the pupils to have mastery in this skill.

METHODS

A. Participants and/or other source of data and information

The respondents of the study are all 46 grade 5 pupils at Julian D. Luna Elementary School since they are the only section in Grade 5 so the researcher decided to include them all in the study.

Data Gathering Method

To determine the performance level in solving word problems in Mathematics of the Grade 5 pupils, the teacher-made Pre-Test and Post-test were administered among the learner-respondents.

Data Analysis Plan

The researcher used the Mean, MPS and SD as the statistical treatment of the gathered data.

RESULTS

The researcher came up with the following results after the gathering and treatment of the data.

The grade 5 pupils got very low performance in solving word problems in mathematics as shown in their Pre-Test result.

After the Pre-Test, the researcher decided to work on an action plan for intervention. The main objective of the intervention is to uplift the performance of grade 5 pupil in terms of solving word-problems. The program is entitled Project DIDS which means Directing Individual's Decisiveness in Solving Word Problem.

After the implementation of the Project DIDS, the researcher conducted an assessment through the Post-Test. To get the accuracy and reliability of the result, the same test was given from the Pre-test which was consisted of 50 items. The table also show the result of the Post-test. It shows the difference and the improvement in the said skills.

DISCUSSIONS

The results show how Project DIDS took part in improving the word problem solving skills in Mathematics of Grade V pupils at JD LUNA Elementary School. The objectives and strategies were clearly defined. The persons involved, time frame, resources and expected output were also present in the action plan. The implementation of the Project DIDS was optimized by the researcher through its stringent implementation.