CORRELATES OF MATHEMATICS ANXIETY AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN SAGAMU LOCAL GOVERMENT AREA OF OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the correlates of mathematics anxiety among secondary school students. A random sample of 100 Mathematics students from five secondary schools in Sagamu Local Government Area ofOgun State, Nigeria participated in the study. Five research questions were raised to give direction to the study which employed descriptive survey research design. Data was collected by using Students Questionnaire on Causes of Mathematics Anxiety (SQCMA) and analysed with chi-square (x2) contigency test at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that most of the students have phobias for mathematics and don't show interest in the subject. Their attitudes towards mathematics, the nature of the Subject as well as teachers' level of understanding on some topics in Mathematics are contributing factors to mathematics anxiety. It was recommended that Mathematics teachers should make numbers real to students by exploring and using examples from everyday living. Teachers should make Mathematics enjoyable to Students by teaching through play, mathematics games and puzzles so as to motivate learning and reduce anxiety. Incorrect responses must be handled in a positive way to encourage student's participation and enhance their confidence.