Use and Applicability of Polya’s Four-Step Problem Solving Model in Teaching Algebra to Grade 9 Students in Flexible Learning Modalities

The main objective of this study is to know the use and applicability of Polya’s Four-Step Problem Solving Model. Specifically, this research aims to determine the indications of being used, relevance, and advantages of Polya’s Model in teaching Algebra to Grade 9 students in Flexible Learning Modalities. This research employed a quantitative type of approach and used a survey questionnaire as its tool for gathering the data relevant to the study. The research is conducted within selected high schools in Lucena City. Furthermore, this research reveals that: most of the respondents are within the age bracket of 29-40, Female, earned Bachelor’s Degree with units in Masteral as their current highest educational attainment, and are 10 years and above in service; Majority used Polya’s model by defining given variables, making a diagram, table, or chart, and checking the results and solutions. Also, the majority strongly agreed that the model’s advantages include: developing higher-order thinking skills, enhancing students’ assessment results, improving class performance, and boosting students’ fluency in Mathematics. Also, the majority of the respondents strongly agreed that Polya’s Model is applicable in modules or presentations, real-life problems or situations, and simple and general ideas problems, giving students an active role in solving mathematical problems. This research recommends that: Mathematics teachers, regardless of age, sex, educational attainment, and experience, utilize better and continue using Polya’s Model, create drills and exercise, and train, create, and attend seminars in using Polya’s model; schools must do programs, activities, which will raise awareness with the perceived advantages of Polya’s Model.