Study Of Relationship Between The Grades In ‘A’ Level Science Practical And Theory Papers

Abstract

The performance of students in ‘A’ level practical examinations was analysed to construct a backdrop for a  study of ‘A’ level science practical work. This paper presents the results of regression analyses that were  carried out to find out if any significant relationship exists between the grades in practical and theory papers. Although the linear model does not explain a large proportion of variance in the practical paper grades, it  indicates that the performance of students in practical papers is related to their performance in theory papers and the college they attend. Gender does not emerge as contributing to the variance in the practical paper grades. From the regression analyses results emerges the need for further research into the laboratory practices to identify the remaining variance in the practical paper grades with a view to optimising the learning outcomes.

Key words: performance, practical work, regression analysis, science