TRENDS IN STUDENTS’ PERFORMANCE IN JUNIOR CERTIFICATE EXAMINATION IN BASIC SCIENCE (EDUCATION PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS)
CHAPTER ONE
- INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Basic Science is a branch of science that involves the fundamental system of acquiring knowledge using observations and experiments to describe and explain natural phenomena.
Basic Science is referred to as a type of science where emphasis is placed on the unity of science and it is the only way of teaching science in such a way as to present scientific ideas as a unified whole (Wikipedia,2014).
The significance of Basic Science cannot be over emphasized as its application helps to acquire new knowledge of the underlying foundations of phenomena without regard for a particular method and it is undertaken primarily to improve the quality of living. The study of basic science helps to develop interest in science and technology. It helps to meet social needs by applying the basic knowledge and skills in science and technology. Advantages of the numerous career opportunities offered by the study of science are taken and basic science also prepares students for further studies.
This study is aimed at the general direction in which students’ performance in Junior Certificate Examination in Basic Science is developing.
The most innovative contribution of the National Policy of Education (2004) to the development and modernization of Nigerian educational system are in the area of secondary education. The policy prescribed a two tier secondary education lasting for a period of six years. A child is required to spend three years in junior secondary school and another three years in senior secondary school. Secondary schools are mostly state or federally owned, students attend junior secondary school for their grades seven (7) through nine (9).In the ninth grade, they take Junior Secondary Certificate Examination (J.S.C.E) to qualify for the limited number of opening in senior secondary schools. Those who do not do well in the exam may continue at the same school or transfer to a different school if they qualify
