Advisers

Ryan Christopher M. Villalon, PhD

Discipline

Education

Abstract

Mathematics can be challenging for young learners, especially when language barriers affect their understanding of key concepts. This study explored the effectiveness of bilingual bridge material in teaching angles to Grade 4 students at Bagbaguin Elementary School, emphasizing the role of language in learning. According to Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory, social interaction, language mediation, scaffolding, and cultural relevance play a crucial role in cognitive development, supporting the use of bilingual material in mathematics instruction. The study used a quantitative, quasi-experimental design involving 100 Grade 4 students from Bagbaguin Elementary School. Stratified sampling and Slovin’s formula were used to determine the sample. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, ranking, the Shapiro–Wilk test of normality, and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Most learners were aged 8–10 years (89%), 53% were male, and 92% spoke Filipino at home. The pretest weighted mean was 1.51, interpreted as “Not Proficient,” across measuring, constructing, and applying angles. After use of MathLink, the general posttest weighted mean increased to 4.23, interpreted as “Proficient,” while constructing angles obtained 4.56. Students reported that MathLink supported interaction, language mediation, scaffolding, cultural relevance, comprehension, and engagement. The Wilcoxon test yielded W = 0 and p < 0.05, indicating a statistically significant pretest–posttest difference. The findings indicate that MathLink supported Grade 4 learners in learning angles and illustrate the potential value of bilingual and culturally grounded materials in mathematics. The study recommends using bilingual bridge materials to address diverse language needs and encouraging bilingual practice at home. Future studies may examine MathLink in other mathematics topics.

Keywords

mathlink, bilingual bridge material, angles, grade 4 learners, mathematics instruction