The influence of the pass mark on the choice of Mathematics as subject by Grade 10 learners in the Groot Letaba Circuit

Abstract

The main problem identified for this study relates to the low numbers of learners who choose Mathematics as a subject in Grade 10 in many schools of the Groot Letaba Circuit, Limpopo Province. The purpose of this study was to explore how the pass mark influences the choice of Mathematics as a subject by Grade 10 learners. This study is situated within the constructivist paradigm. Constructivism is based on the belief that reality is subjective and multiple which means that people with their assumptions, experiences and backgrounds contribute to the establishment of reality. This study followed a qualitative research approach nested in a phenomenological research design. Attribution Theory, advocated by Fritzs which is concerned with how individuals interpret events and how this relates to their thinking and behaviour, supported the research. Purposive sampling was used to select four teachers and 20 Grade 10 learners from four secondary schools in the Groot Letaba Circuit of Limpopo Province. Individual interviews were conducted with teachers and learners participated in focus group interviews, both of which permitted the researcher to obtain rich information. The Thematic Method of data analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that the low marks obtained by learners in Grade 9 influenced them to reject Mathematics as a subject in Grade 10 because they fear failing mathematics again in subsequent grades. The findings also revealed that by providing sufficient time for teaching mathematics, implementing effective teaching methods and using applicable resources, learners should be motivated to work hard and attain the necessary pass mark require to choose Mathematics as a subject in Grade 10.