Using the balance model to improve the understanding of the principles of solving linear equations in one variable at Buasi Roman Catholic Junior High School

Abstract

This study investigated whether the use of the balance model in the teaching and learning of linear equations can improve students‟ conceptual understanding in the principles of solving linear equations in one variable. The data was gathered using tests. A pre-test conducted on thirty (30) Form two pupils of Buasi Roman Catholic Junior High School and an analysis of the interviews enabled the development and the use of the balance model in the teaching of linear equations in one variable. The study adopted a post-test after an intervention design on the 30 J.H.S 2B pupils. The descriptive analysis of the tests‟ results showed that the use of the balance model in teaching and learning of linear equations improves pupils‟ understanding of the principles of solving linear equations in one variable. This leads to improvement in pupils‟ performance in solving linear equations in one variable.