The Effectiveness of a Proposed Teaching Strategy Using Geogebra Software in Improving the Mathematical Achievement of Second-Year Intermediate Students and Developing Their Deeper Understanding

Abstract

The study aims to identify the effectiveness of a proposed instructional strategy using GeoGebra software in improving mathematics achievement among second-grade intermediate students and developing their deep understanding. To achieve this aim, the researcher formulated two null hypotheses. To test these hypotheses, a sample of second-grade intermediate students at Al-Sayyid Hamad Intermediate School for Boys in the city of Mosul was selected during the academic year 2025–2026. The students were purposively selected from the research population. The total sample consisted of 41 students, with 20 students assigned to the experimental group and 21 students assigned to the control group. The experimental group was taught using the proposed instructional strategy based on GeoGebra software, whereas the control group was taught using the conventional teaching method. Equivalence between the two groups was established with respect to several variables, including chronological age in months, students’ overall average in the third intermediate grade, achievement in mathematics in the first intermediate grade, intelligence quotient (IQ), and parents’ educational level. The study required the development of two research instruments. The first instrument was a mathematics achievement test consisting of 35 test items. The validity and reliability of the test were verified, with a reliability coefficient of 0.82. The item discrimination index, difficulty index, ease index, and distractor effectiveness were also calculated. The second instrument was a deep understanding scale developed by the researcher. In its final form, the scale consisted of 45 items. Its validity and reliability were verified, with a reliability coefficient of 0.83. The discriminating power of the items was also calculated and found to be acceptable for all items. In light of the study findings, the researcher concluded that teaching through the proposed instructional strategy using GeoGebra software was effective in intermediate schools in the city of Mosul. The strategy had a positive effect on increasing the level of academic achievement among second-grade intermediate students and enhancing their level of deep understanding. As a continuation of the current research, the researcher recommends conducting further studies, such as investigating the effect of a proposed instructional strategy using GeoGebra software on the achievement of fifth-grade scientific students and the development of their mathematical thinking.