Enhancing the Analytical Skills in Solving Word Problem of Grade 6 -Cattleya Pupils of West Bauan Central School through Intervention Activities

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

One of the major phases of Mathematics curriculum is solving word problem. However, it has been observed that the Grade 6 -Cattleya pupils of West Bauan Central School had difficulties in this aspect. The focus of this study is to uplift the level of performance of the pupils, determine the difficulties they met in mathematical problems and to improve their analytical skills in solving word problem through intervention activities and Remedial Program called, “I Can Solve It”.

METHODS

The qualitative study was carried out on Grade 6 -Cattleya at West Bauan Central School which was composed of 19 boys and 29 girls with a total of 48 pupils. Pupils took a pretest and posttest design to measure their proficiency level and find their weaknesses or unmastered skills in problem solving through item analysis. Apart from the test given, focused group interviews were conducted, recorded, and transcribed. During the implementation of "I Can Solve It”, pupils were given word problems to solve either with partner or small groups or individually. They were given practice problem daily.

RESULTS

Data findings gathered from the pre-test administered showed that respondents encountered difficulties in many mathematical problem-solving skills such as determining the operation or strategies to use and writing the appropriate equation that leads to incorrect solution. After exposing the learners to "I Can Solve It", the performance level of the pupils improved by 22.16% for the class attained a PL of 87.41 and MPS of 75.42. There were no longer pupils who did not meet expectations. The number of pupils who were fairly satisfactory was lowered to 5 out of 48 pupils which is 11% while 15% of the pupils were satisfactory. From 0% in the pretest, 29% of the pupils became very satisfactory while 45% achieved the performance level of outstanding in the posttest. As a whole, the class has a performance level of very satisfactory. Results showed the effectiveness of the program.

DISCUSSIONS

For the learners to be able to analyze and solve mathematical word problems with accuracy, vocabulary development, and comprehension skills should be developed among them leading to the improvement of the analytical skills needed in answering word problems. Furthermore, the remedial program "I Can Solve It" can help the pupils enhance their analytical skills in solving word problems.