Learners' Proficiency in Solving Word-Problems in Mathematics: Basis for an Instructional Materials Development

Abstract: This research investigates the proficiency of learners in solving word problems in mathematics within a private school situated in a first-class component city in Southern Negros during the School Year 2022-2023, aiming to inform the development of instructional materials. Quantitative data were collected from 119 Senior High School respondents via a meticulously crafted questionnaire, which was subjected to validity and reliability. The questionnaire targeted three primary topics: functions and their graphs, basic business mathematics, and logic. Results indicate a predominance of female respondents and STEM learners, with a notable portion of parents possessing college or graduate-level education. Basic Business Mathematics emerged as the area with the lowest scores. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in proficiency levels in this area based on sex and academic strand, while Functions and Their Graphs showed significant differences based solely on academic strand. In contrast, the Logic area showed no significant differences across any demographic variables. These findings were instrumental in guiding the development of instructional materials for General Mathematics, enhancing educational strategies tailored to address specific proficiency gaps identified among learners. Keywords: Mathematics Proficiency, Word problems, Senior High School Learners, General Mathematics