The Mathematics Proficiency of Grade 7 Students: An Input to the Readiness for Higher Order Thinking Skills

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In the secondary level, mathematics subjects are taught sequentially and are geared towards the acquisition of higher order thinking skills that will be useful in producing citizens who are active members of the workforce and contributors to nation-building. For this reason, continuous efforts have to be made in the study, monitoring and evaluation of mathematics learning, which could result in the enhanced performance of students and, hopefully, better prepare them in the competitive and global work environment. All these start in the basic education level, where students' mathematics and numeracy skills should be harnessed to their full potential.

METHODS

The study determined the Mathematics proficiency of Grade 7 students in five public secondary schools in the District of Lobo, Batangas during the SY 2016-2017. The respondents of the study were 220 Grade 7 students from selected public secondary schools in the District. This study investigated their academic performance in Mathematics and assessed their proficiency in conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and strategic competence. The researcher used the descriptive design and conducted informal interviews as one of data gathering methods. Test questions were prepared and served as the main data gathering instrument. Frequency, weighted mean and Pearson r were used to statistically treat the gathered data. Rubrics were developed to ensure consistency in evaluating student work.

RESULTS

Findings revealed that Grade 7 students generally have a satisfactory performance in Grade 7 Mathematics. They were also found to be proficient in conceptual understanding, moderately proficient in procedural fluency and slightly proficient in strategic competence. Data also revealed that there is a significant relationship between students' academic performance and proficiency variables.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the results, the researcher prepared various classroom activities that would enhance students' mathematical proficiency and help improve their higher order thinking skills. It was recommended that the activities be validated prior to adoption and classroom implementation and that further studies be conducted focusing on other aspects of mathematics proficiency.