8 Reasons why candidates fail Mathematics WAEC 2014

Efforts have to be geared towards the subject is you want to scale through gallantly and so, WAEC has taken time to filter-out the general reasons why candidates fail mathematics WAEC 2014 paper, these reasons remain valid and relevant even till today. Therefore, all prospective candidates and Mathematics teachers should take it seriously.

The candidates’ weaknesses

After a careful examination of the candidates’ effort through their grade in each question and general weak points, the following are seen to be the weaknesses that led to the failure

1. Geometry – circle theorems and angles on parallel lines.
2. Inability to translate word problems into mathematics expression and diagram
3. Poor adherence to the rubrics of the question especially with regards to the use of calculator and mathematical table
4. Modulo Arithmetic
5. Commercial Arithmetic
6. Manipulation of decimals and fractions
7. Reading and answering questions from graphs.
8. Representation of information in diagrams.

Suggested Remedies for the prospective Candidates

Candidates and the teachers are to take heed to this, it was released from the chief examiner’s desk as the solid recommendations in improving candidates’ performance

1. Candidates should be led to do simple arithmetic without the use of calculators and tables.
2. Candidates should be encouraged to read the questions carefully so as to understand its demand before attempting them.
3. Candidates should be led to acquire knowledge of various Mathematical concepts and how to apply them to solving problems in everyday living.
4. Teachers as well as candidates were encouraged to put in more effort to the teaching and learning of geometry and trigonometry.
5. Teachers as well as candidates were encouraged to cover the syllabus while preparing for the examination
6. Teachers were encouraged to participate in the WA5SCE main coordination as this would help them improve on their teaching skills.
7. Qualified Mathematics teachers should be engaged to teach the subject.

Candidates’ Strength

The Chief Examiner reported that the areas where candidate’s showed significant strength included:

1. Surds
2. Simultaneous equations
3. Completing the table of values and drawing graphs of trigonometric functions.
4. Statistics/Probability
5. Quadratic equations
6. Number bases
7. Sets

The report further stated that candidates performed better in section A than in section B.