The Challenges of Using Lesson Plan Formats for Effective Teaching of Chemistry in Kisii District, Kenya

Abstract

The study sought to review the state of the use of lesson plans by teachers in teaching Chemistry in six secondary school s of Mosocho Division of Kisii District, namely Cardinal Otunga, Mosocho Academy, Raganga, Kioge, Nyatieko and Nyabururu. The research tool used was the questionnaire. The respondents included the headteachers, the heads of the Science departments and Chemistry teachers and, therefore, three types of questionnaires were administered. The Chemistry teachers’ questionnaire sought information regarding the problems that teachers faced in preparing and using the lesson plans. The heads of science department’s questionnaire solicited for information regarding problems they faced in trying to see that teachers prepared and used the lesson plan, if Chemistry teachers in one school used more than one lesson plan format and the format that was found easier to use. The head teachers’ questionnaire was used to collect information on how they carried out their duty of seeing that teachers prepared and used the lesson plan in teaching chemistry. The head teachers also made comments concerning the use of the lesson plan in teaching chemistry. From the findings of the study, it was noted that most teachers used the columnar format and understood the importance of the lesson plan. However, some were completely unable to use the lesson plan. This shows that there is need to employ qualified teachers. The study contributes useful knowledge to scholars and other education stakeholders that may help in improving teachers’ effectiveness in their teaching of Chemistry among other science subjects.