Enhancing Language and Scientific Literacy among Grade 3 Pupils through the Use of Modules in Science

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Scientific literacy is a skill wherein the person can ask, find, or determine answers to questions derived from curiosity about everyday experiences. It means that a person has the ability to describe, explain, and predict natural phenomena. Several studies in the world have indicated that Science teachers who are proficient in process skills use strategies that give children opportunities to learn those skills (Harlen, 1985, 2010). There are some students who have difficulties in reading. Therefore, it is important that students be given intervention materials to develop their reading skills. This study experimented if there is a significant difference in the pupils' language/ reading performance and scientific literacy after using a modular approach in teaching Science 3.

METHODS

The proponent used the descriptive type of research, particularly quantitative research. Purposive Sampling was used since there were only 15 pupils in Grade 3 at Lumipa Elementary School. The statistical tool used was parametric statistics, particularly the t-test to determine if there is a significant difference between the pretest and posttest in the language/reading performance and scientific literacy of the pupils after using the modular approach in teaching Science 3. The instruments used were (a) modules during the experimentation and (b) pre and posttest results.

RESULTS

Results show that there is a significant difference between the pretest and posttest in the language/reading performance and scientific literacy after using modular approach in teaching Science 3 demonstrated by the t-test at É ‘= .05, df = 28, and t .05 = 1.734. Because the computed value of t is 2.342, the null hypotheses was rejected. There were 13 out of 15 pupils who attained the independent level in reading after the experimentation. The modular intervention materials were effective in developing/enhancing language and scientific literacy among Grade 3 pupils.

DISCUSSIONS

It is found in this study that a module can help develop the reading ability of the pupils. Scientific literacy will lead them to be more capable in coping up with their lessons. Using modules have many advantages in developing the reading skill of the learners (Brown et al., 2010). Modular teaching may help develop many notable and self-reliant characters and in much more modern ways, pupils enjoy periods in which they pursue their interests and satisfy their curiosities (Manlove and David, 2015).