Asian Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Studies

Mathematics provides an effective way of building mental discipline and encourages logical reasoning and mental rigor. It is widely recognized as a foundational subject that supports the understanding of other disciplines such as science, social studies, music, and art. Developing mathematical skills at an early age is crucial, particularly in basic operations like subtraction, which serve as building blocks for more advanced concepts. The present study aims to improve the subtraction skills of Grade 1 pupils in Bobolosan Elementary School through the use of Popsicle Sticks as manipulatives. Conducted during the academic year 2024–2025 in Laoang, Northern Samar, the study employed a quasi-experimental design using pre-test and post-test methods to measure learning outcomes. The researchers selected 27 Grade 1 pupils as respondents, focusing on those identified as non-proficient in numeracy. Subtraction problems were administered before and after the intervention, and a t-test was used to analyze the mean difference between the pre-test and post-test scores. Findings revealed that the pre-test results of the pupils were moderate, indicating initial challenges in performing subtraction. However, the post-test scores showed significant improvement, demonstrating that the use of Popsicle Sticks provided effective visual representation and hands-on experiences that enhanced comprehension. The statistical analysis confirmed a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test results, with higher scores obtained after the intervention. This study concludes that manipulatives such as Popsicle Sticks are valuable tools in teaching mathematical concepts, particularly subtraction, to young learners. Their use fosters engagement, supports active learning, and helps pupils develop a deeper understanding of abstract ideas through concrete experiences. For educators, adopting a hands-on approach with manipulatives offers a practical advantage in improving numeracy skills and promoting meaningful learning in mathematics.