Problem Solving Skills of Grade 9 Students in Science and their Science Academic Performance (A Proposed Differentiated Materials)

Abstract

The study determined the problem-solving skills and the academic performance in science of grade 9 students as basis for the preparation of differentiated materials on the science subject. Focusing on specific topics like electronic structure of matter, chemical bonding, carbon compound and mole concept, it involved the participation of 52 grade 9 students. The findings showed that the level of problem-solving skills of the Grade 9 students was generally described as above average, their academic performance in Science was found to be at the same above average level. The data led to the rejection of the hypothesis explaining a moderate relationship between the level of problem-solving skills and the academic performance of the students in the subject. A number of instructional materials were developed to address the weakness of the students in problem solving. Further studies on the problem-solving skills of the students are strongly recommended.