Factors Affecting Achievement In Mathematics at Secondary Level

Abstract

This study focuses on the factors affecting achievement in mathematics at secondary level students toward optional mathematics. This is case study related to affecting factor on the achievement in mathematics. The objectives of this study were to identify the factors that affect of the achievement in mathematics and to analyze the strategies taken by school to promote mathematics achievement. It is case study and qualitative in nature. This study was conducted with the sample of one school from public selected by convenience sampling. Two guardian, one head teacher and one mathematics teacher and four students through convenience sampling. Direct interview with students, head teacher, maths teacher and parents were taken. Classroom observation was done for three times with different days during teaching learning activities. The collected information from teachers and students were analyzed with the help of theoretical and conceptual framework developed by the researcher. The finding of study shows that the major findings of the study were as followings.  The school had enough rooms, desks, bench and playground with playing materials concerning mathematics.  Truly, the teacher of mathematics were having high academic but the teaching style was poor and old.  The single teacher taught different subjects like compulsory mathematics, optional mathematics and science.  They were unable to prepare lesson plan effectively.  Evaluation process at school were terminal, half terminal exam and annual exam.  Homework given by teachers were not satisfactory. 6  There was not enough references book and practice book.  Class size was big so that disturb in teaching.  Communication between teacher to parents and students was minimal.  School management committee had planed to adopt new policies but failed to follow.  There was poor economical home environment.