Advisers

Ryan Christopher M. Villalon, PhD

Discipline

Education

Abstract

This study examined the use of magnetic blocks in teaching fractions to Grade 3 pupils at Raymundo Punongbayan Elementary School. There were 72 pupils randomly selected from a population of 292. Because young learners often experience difficulty with abstract mathematical concepts, the study investigated whether tactile manipulatives could make fractions more concrete, engaging, and understandable. By providing visual and tactile representations of fractional parts, magnetic blocks were intended to support a meaningful learning experience. The study used a quantitative, quasi-experimental design. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and researcher-constructed pretests and posttests validated against Department of Education mathematics standards. Results were analyzed using frequency, percentage, ranking, weighted mean, and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Most respondents were aged 7–8 years (67%), and 53% were female. The use of magnetic blocks received a weighted mean of 13.96, which the study interpreted as indicating improved learner competence in fractions. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed a significant difference in Grade 3 pupils’ fraction skills before and after the intervention (Z = 7.062, p < .00001). For Grade 3 learners, the findings suggest that magnetic blocks provided a visual and tangible approach that helped pupils understand challenging fraction concepts. The study recommends continued use of hands-on materials such as magnetic blocks to support pupils’ understanding of fractions. Educators should provide equitable learning opportunities for male and female pupils, parents should encourage practice at home using similar materials, and students should participate actively in mathematics activities involving manipulatives. Future studies should examine the long-term outcomes of these tools and identify additional support for struggling learners.

Keywords

quantitative research, quasi-experimental design, fractions, magnetic blocks