Self-belief can directly predict students’ academic motivation and achievement. Research
indicates that mathematical self-belief often decreases during the middle years of schooling.
This study explored the mathematical self-belief development of 15 Year 7 students. Data
were gathered from a survey, a mathematics achievement test and interviews. Results were
analysed and interpreted from a multilevel perspective. Findings indicate that student-level
characteristics, such as persistence, were the most influential on mathematical self-belief.
While class-level contexts, such as ability grouping, were less influential, interpersonal
relationships with teachers played a major role.