Using the Speed Test in the Pre-Requisite Skill of Finding LCM in Subtracting Dissimilar Fractions

Abstract

This action research focused on the effectiveness of using speed test in finding LCM as pre-requisite skills in subtracting dissimilar fractions among grade 4 pupils. One of the essential skills that a person must have is mathematical skills. Basic facts in Math must be mastered in early age. This simple computation is crucial and useful in our everyday lives. As observed, most of the pupils experienced difficulty in some topics in Mathematics from second grading up to fourth grading because their basic skill in concepts is not well-developed. Because of this, the researcher decided to conduct a study with the use of speed test in teaching the subject. The researcher utilized a pretest-posttest control group design of research —the thirty grade 4 pupils of Sto. Domingo Elementary School served as the respondents of the study. The researcher used speed test in finding LCM as a drill in teaching subtraction of dissimilar fractions. The data obtained from the pretest and posttest questionnaire were consolidated, organized, and tabulated in the distribution tables. They were analyzed and interpreted using different statistical tools like mean and t-test. Based on the data gathered, it was found out that there is a significant difference between the pretest and posttest mean scores. The results revealed that there is an increase in mean scores between pretest and posttest and gain more mastery in the achievement level of the pupils. The results support the study of Fall (2012) according to him computerized drill and practice in math can increase the performance of the pupils in math fact fluency. The same with speed test in finding LCM it is very evident in the results that it can improve the performance of the pupils in subtracting dissimilar fractions. Therefore, it is concluded that the use of speed test in finding LCM as a pre-requisite skill which contributes more excellent proficiency among pupils in teaching subtraction of dissimilar fractions. It has also been found that pupils become more active and participative in the subject when the speed test is taught to them. It is recommended that teachers should use different pre-requisite skills like the use of the speed test to prepare the pupils to gain the skill needed in learning Mathematics effectively.