Using activity method of teaching to improve upon the performance of SHS two home economic students in integrated science at Diabene secondary technical school in the Western region.

Abstract

The study aimed at helping SHS 2 Home Economics students’ of Diabene Senior High Technical School, Takoradi in the Western Region of Ghana, on their performance in both class test and examinations in Integrated Science. Out of two hundred and fifty (250) students, one hundred and five (105) students made up of 95 boys and 10 girls were selected as sample size. The method for the sampling exercise was simple random sampling. Data were collected through interviews, observations and tests in Integrated Science. The data were analyzed using bar graphs expressed in percentages. Some of the findings derived were lack of teaching and learning materials to teach the subject, lack of class exercises due to large class size and lack of exposure of students to some educational trips. Based on the findings, an intervention was designed and implemented to address the problem of their poor performance. Some of the intervention strategies included the use of demonstration method in teaching science, grouping mixed ability students for practical activities using relevant teaching and learning materials, formation of science clubs, using some of the girls as laboratory assistants and organization of educational trips. University of Education, Winneba http://ir.uew.edu.gh Observation of the students during the implementation of the intervention revealed that they were highly excited when taught using activities that got them involved in the lesson.