Abstract:
Performance of learners in Chemistry in South Africa has been below the international
average. This study intended to investigate the management of high school learners’
academic performance in Chemistry as a component of Physical Science. The study
employed mixed designs which are qualitative and quantitative. The population of this
study comprised learners who were doing Physical Science, Physical Science teachers
and school principals. The principals as participants were purposively sampled whereas
teachers and learners were stratified random sampled. Data were collected through
questionnaires which were distributed to learners and teachers, while school principals
were orally interviewed. Data obtained from questionnaires were analysed using SPSS
software. Qualitative data were analysed through identification of themes, development
of codes and sub-themes. The improvement of teaching and learning will have a
positive impact on the academic performance of high school learners in Chemistry. The
findings showed that there are factors which affect the management of high school
learners like (school location, inadequate physical resources, attitude and anxiety)
contribute to the performance of learners in Chemistry. The findings also showed that
factors influencing the academic performance of learners in Chemistry like (effective
teaching, In-service Training of Chemistry teachers and Chemistry syllabus and
content) contribute to the performance of learners in Chemistry. This study will give new
insight to curriculum developers and implementers, and researchers regarding
emerging issues on performance and influence the Ministry of Basic Education on policy
formulation. Improved Chemistry performance will give learners opportunities to pursue
science related courses in higher institutions of learning and middle level colleges.
