The differences in attitudes and achievements in mathematics among socio-economic levels : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Abstract

A continual goal of a teacher is to find new ways to reach students so that they become successful in school. I suggest that one factor that has an effect on a student's successes as well as attitudes regarding mathematics, in particular, is their socio-economic status. In order to support my thesis, I have completed several items. First, a school comparison between an affluent school and one from an area with a lower socio-economic area is included. What follows is a literature review of the limited published material that presently exists on the topic, which includes possible causes and solutions. Finally, a survey that could be used as a diagnostic tool to gauge student attitudes is included. If the cause of failure is pinpointed and a cause is then found, teachers are one step closer to attaining their goal of reaching students.