Kyla M. Hinampas

Student Researcher, Teacher Education Department, Davao de Oro State College, Compostela

Gemar B. Magbutong

Instructor I, Teacher Education Department, Davao de Oro State College, Compostela

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of the Collaborative Learning Strategy (CLS) using KenKen Puzzle in enhancing Grade 8 students’ mastery of integer operations at SHS- 01. Employing a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test control group design, the study involved two sections selected through multi-stage cluster sampling, with one section randomly assigned as the control group and the other as the experimental group. Both groups took a researcher-made, validated 50-item test before and after the intervention. The control group received traditional instruction, while the experimental group participated in a six-session intervention to promote interactive and meaningful learning of integer addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Data were analyzed using mean percentage score, standard deviation, paired t-test, independent samples t-test, and Cohen’s d to determine improvement and effect size. Results showed that while the control group had minimal gains, the experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement with a large effect size. These findings indicate that the intervention effectively enhances students’ mastery of integer operations while promoting greater engagement and collaborative problem-solving in mathematics classrooms.