Abstract
Rational Numbers is an essential topic in mathematics since it necessitates the learning progression of more advanced topics. Nevertheless, previous literature shows that students are having difficulties in understanding the topic for numerous reasons. The inability of teachers in providing good examples during teaching is identified as one of the major causes. Thus, this study aims to develop a calibrated pool of items to facilitate teachers in giving appropriate examples for the topic of Rational Numbers. We employed a descriptive design to provide descriptions of the item statistics for the calibrated pool of items. Samples of the study consisted of 1,292 secondary school students. We used the Rasch measurement model framework via a quantitative approach to analyse the data. The results showed that all items demonstrated an acceptable quality of measuring students’ ability in rational numbers while at the same time demonstrated high evidence of validity and reliability as well. Ultimately, we also provided suggestions on how teachers can use the pool of items in delivering appropriate examples in the classroom.
Highlights
Success in school and beyond is greatly influenced by mathematics proficiency (Ritchie & Bates, 2013)
The current study described the process of developing a calibrated pool of items in the topic of Rational Numbers to facilitate teachers in giving examples in classroom learning
We were able to pool 71 high-quality test items with varying degree of difficulties that were calibrated on a common scale
Summary
Success in school and beyond is greatly influenced by mathematics proficiency (Ritchie & Bates, 2013). According to Tian and Siegler (2018), one of the prime factors that contribute to mathematics proficiency is knowledge about rational number. Rational number is defined as any number that can be expressed as a ratio of two integers with the denominator ≠ 0 (Blinder, 2013). 2 is a rational number since it is a product of 2/1 or 4/2 etc. Decimals such as 0.125 is a rational number since it can be expressed in terms of 1/8. Since probabilities are widely expressed as fractions, decimal, and percentages, it requires an understanding of the magnitudes of these rational numbers to understand the concept of probabilities and the decisionmaking contexts
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