Matatag Curriculum Insights: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Filipino 7 Lesson Exemplars

Authors

  • Alma M. Bihag Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology Author
  • Liezl Marie Dagondon Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology Author https://orcid.org/0009-0003-6724-4632

Keywords:

Matatag Curriculum, Filipino 7, Grade 7 Filipino, Filipino 7 lesson exemplar, Matatag Curriculum lesson exemplar

Abstract

This study examined the instructional design quality and curriculum alignment of 32 officially published Filipino Grade 7 lesson exemplars developed under the Department of Education’s Matatag Curriculum. Recognizing the vital role of structured teaching guides in delivering competency-based and culturally relevant instruction, the research addressed the limited evaluation of how these exemplars reflect intended curriculum principles, inclusivity, flexibility, and technology integration. Using an embedded mixed methods design, the study combined quantitative content analysis and qualitative thematic analysis to identify strengths and gaps. Quantitative results showed full recognition of core principles such as Relevance, Continuity, Balance, Integration, Learner-Centeredness, and Evaluation and Improvement, with key philosophical determinants like Essentialism, Progressivism, Cognitivism, and Constructivism strongly present. However, the principle of Flexibility appeared in only 12.5% of the exemplars, with limited inclusion of alternative curriculum models. The qualitative analysis revealed five main themes: strong emphasis on competency-based, learner-centered strategies; consistent contextualization using local cultural content; limited flexibility in lesson design; varying depth of inclusivity and differentiation; and basic but not transformative use of technology. Triangulation confirmed the high alignment with standards but highlighted the rigid structure and shallow digital components as areas needing improvement. The study concludes that while the Filipino 7 lesson exemplars under the Matatag Curriculum provide structured, relevant, and standards-based guidance, they would benefit from enhanced flexibility, explicit inclusive strategies, and deeper digital integration. These findings offer practical insights for curriculum developers, teacher educators, and policymakers committed to strengthening lesson planning and ensuring that learning materials remain responsive to the diverse needs of Filipino learners in an evolving educational landscape.

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Recommended Citation:

Bihag, A. M., Aclao, J. T., & Dagondon, L. M. B. (2025). Matatag Curriculum Insights: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Filipino 7 Lesson Exemplars. Ennoia Advances in Social Science, Technology and Education, 01(02). 23-37. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16393255

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Published

2025-09-02

How to Cite

Matatag Curriculum Insights: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Filipino 7 Lesson Exemplars. (2025). Ennoia Advances in Social Science, Technology and Education, 1(02), 23-37. https://www.ennoia-asste.org/index.php/asste/article/view/8