Mathematics and Science Achievement at South African Schools in TIMSS 2003

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Mathematics and science are key areas of knowledge for the development of individuals and for the social and economic development of South Africa. In November 2002, about 9000 Grade 8 learners from South African public schools participated in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). This monograph reports on South Africas performance in TIMSS in relation to the other 50 countries. In addition, the report describes the performance of different groups of learners in South Africa and provides contextual information about, teachers, schools and the curriculum. The report concludes with recommendations for strategic interventions that could contribute to improved performance in mathematics and science. The findings contained in this report offer valuable insights to academics, policymakers, curriculum-planners, teachers and those involved in the development of education in South Africa.

List of tables and figures
Acknowledgements
Executive Summary
acronyms and Abbreviations

1. Achievement Studies and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS)
2. TIMSS Design and Methodology
3. South African Mathematics Achievement in an International Context
4. South African Science Achievement in an International Context
5. National Analysis: TIMSS 2003 Mathematics
6. National Analysis: TIMSS 2003 Science
7. Grade 9 Mathematics and Science achievement on TIMSS
8. Social, Educational and Curriculum Landscape
9. South African TIMSS learners
10. The Context of Learning Science and Mathematics in South Africa: TIMSS Teachers, Classrooms and Schools.
11. Key findings and Implications

References
Appendices

Dr Vijay Reddy is a Research Director in the Education, Science and Skills Development Research Programme. She holds a PhD in Science Education from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Dr Reddy has extensive experience in social science research, especially in the areas of research design and methodology; planning and management of large-scale surveys; and life history research.