An Authentic Mathematics Problem Competition and Its Effect on the Performance of Advanced Sixth Grade Learners

The purpose of this study was to determine what effect an authentic mathematics problem competition would have on student performance by advanced sixth grade learners. The study was conducted in a public elementary school, in a sixth grade math classroom with twenty five advanced math students. The data sources included a student survey, weekly competition problems, chapter tests, and field notes. The results showed a definite relationship between success in the competition and improved performance in the math class. For students who did well in the competition their chapter test scores improved during the five weeks of the competition. Also, teacher observations saw advanced student engagement and enthusiasm towards math increase. As a result, an authentic mathematics problem competition does affect the performance of advanced sixth grade learners