AN INVESTIGATION ON THE CAUSES OF POOR PERFORMANCE IN MATHEMATICS BY ORDINARY LEVEL PUPILS AT KAUNYE SECONDARY SCHOOL IN MUTOKO DISTRICT.

Abstract

The study investigates on the causes of poor performance in mathematics by ordinary level pupils at Kaunye Secondary School in Mutoko. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research approach which utilized a descriptive research design. The targeted population was 97 (90 students and 7 teachers). The sample of the study included seven teachers sampled purposively and twenty three learners which we sampled randomly. Questionnaires, interviews and observations were the research instruments used to collect the required information. The collected data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that poor performance in mathematics at ordinary level was and is a contribution of different factors which includes shortage of resources, wide curriculum and assessment methods, teaching and learning methods being employed, economic conditions and cultural beliefs. From this research, it is evident that improvement in mentioned factors will saw improvement in performance.