• Ashish Kumar Sethi

Students’ Mathematics performance in schools is one of the major concerns in Mathematics education. Students face several difficulties while learning mathematics in their school years. Among the sub-branches of Mathematics, students are found to have greater difficulties in algebra, which moves beyond basic mathematics and prepares for higher mathematics. This study is conducted with an objective to find out the specific difficulties faced by secondary school students while solving algebraic problems. For this, a descriptive survey method is employed. Samples are randomly selected from 4 CBSE schools in Bhubaneswar city of Odisha. A self-developed criterion-referenced test is administered based on the NCERT class IX mathematics textbook. The error analysis technique is used to analyze the data. Among the specific difficulties solving word problems using the variables, factorization of the polynomials using the identity, finding the degree of polynomials, applying the identities to solve algebraic problems, finding the zeros of the polynomials, factorizing the quadratic polynomials are found to be some of the areas where maximum number of students struggle. Few students face difficulties even with the simplest of the problems of algebra like finding the solutions of a linear equation. The difficulties faced by students and the types of errors with examples are detailed in the article. Major findings with discussion along with their implications for students, teachers and also for teacher education programs are highlighted. Thus, it helps to gain a better understanding into learning of algebra and try out possible solutions for students while solving algebraic expressions.

Mathematics, Secondary School Students, Specific Difficulties, Algebra, Class IX

"A Focused Analysis of Common Difficulties Faced by Class IX Students in Algebra", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 8, page no.e654-e660, August-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2508488.pdf

"A Focused Analysis of Common Difficulties Faced by Class IX Students in Algebra", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 8, page no. ppe654-e660, August-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2508488.pdf