Effectiveness of the Matheladder as a Review Material on the Achievement and Motivation Levels of Grade 9 Learners in Trigonometry

Abstract

This study aimed to look into the effectiveness of the Matheladder as a review material for grade 9 learners’ achievement and motivation level in learning trigonometry.  The study was administered to grade 9 learners on the fourth quarter from Acelo C. Badelles Sr. Memorial High School who were selected through purposive sampling.  This study employed mixed method of research which used quasi-experimental design as the quantitative method. Quantitative and qualitative data was utilized from the achievement test, motivation questionnaire and interview guide questions. Findings revealed that the experimental groups have significantly higher achievement level compared to the control group. It also reveals that all experimental groups have significantly different motivation levels than the control group. The experimental groups, in particular, had a higher level of motivation than the control group. The drawn insights of the learners revealed that some learners demonstrated an interest in trigonometry and appreciated the game’s value in helping them comprehend the teachings in an enjoyable way. Furthermore, the game’s Question-and-Answer component, as well as the concept of winning the game, is one of the most captivating parts of the game.  The participants had difficulty in answering the test due to the lack of sufficient knowledge, of how hard it is to understand the topics, unfamiliarity with the problem-solving process, and the negative notion of trigonometry. Following are some recommendations based on the foregoing conclusions: (1) Conduct the study in a longer span of time and with larger sample. (2) Encourage the use of the Matheladder game as a formative assessment instead of using it as a review material. (3) Contextualize and incorporate Matheladder in mathematics activities. (4) Replicate the study in the Grade 9 level in order to know the reasons behind the low achievement level in trigonometry. (5) Students and teachers need to focus on conceptual learning rather than rote memorization for meaningful understanding in trigonometry.

Keywords: achievement level, educational board-game, Matheladder, motivation level, trigonometry

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/14-15-05

Publication date:May 31^st 2023