The Effectiveness of Manipulating Real Objects in Enhancing Retention Among Grade 7 Students Struggling With Concepts of Angles

Abstract

Mathematics frequently involves abstract concepts and symbols, presenting a challenge for certain students who may need help to retain these concepts. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of manipulating real objects in enhancing retention among grade 7 students struggling with concepts of angles during S.Y. 2023–2024 in a public institution in the city of Ozamiz. This study used a classroom-based action research design with 31 students as participants using purposive sampling. Research-made test questionnaires and interview guide questions were used to gather data. The data was interpreted using statistical tools, mean, standard deviation, and t-test, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Thus, the following were the study's key findings: the students' retention level of the concepts of angles before manipulating real objects did not meet expectations; the students' retention level of the concepts of angles after manipulating real objects was very satisfactory; there was a significant difference in the students' retention level of the concepts of angles before and after manipulating real objects; and other developments observed among the students after manipulating real objects involved increased student engagement, mastery of angles, and real-life application. Integrating manipulatives into mathematics instruction can significantly enhance students' retention of angle concepts. Teachers may incorporate the use of manipulatives and real objects in the teaching of angles to provide students with tangible and interactive experiences.