CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
The influence of audio visual materials in promoting student’s academic achievement and teaching and learning in educational development cannot be over emphasized. The teaching of geometry in Nigerian junior secondary schools needs to be properly handled. The materials used by teachers to teach and drive home their subject points at the primary and secondary school levels of our education system is incontrovertibly a paramount important issue in practical classroom interaction and successful transfer of knowledge from the teacher to the students.
Audio visual are materials which assist teachers to make their lessons explicit to students. They are also used to transmit information, ideas and notes to learners (Ijaduola (1997). Instructional materials include both visuals and audiovisuals such as pictures, flashcards, posters, charts, tape recorder, radio, video, television, computers among others. These materials serve as supplement to the normal processes of instruction.
Geometry is a subject in mathematics that focuses on the study of shapes, sizes, relative configurations, and spatial properties. Derived from the Greek word meaning “earth measurement,” geometry is one of the oldest sciences. It was first formally organized by the Greek mathematician Euclid around 300 BC when he arranged 465 geometric propositions into 13 books, titled ‘Elements’. This, however, was not the first time geometry had been utilized. As a matter of fact, there exists evidence to believe that geometry dates all the way back to 3,000 BC in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt!
The West African Examination Council (WAEC) Chief Examiners (2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006) consistently reported candidate’s lack of skills in attempting all the questions asked in general mathematics. WAEC Chief Examiners (2003, 2005) further observed that candidates were weak in geometry of circle and 3-dimensional problems, when they attempt geometry questions: only few of the candidates showed a clear understanding of the problem in their working. Which poses a serious challenge to solving geometry problems in future, and the need to try using audio visual material in teaching the topic.