Basic Education (K to 12) Program

Kindergarten | Elementary School | Junior High School | Senior High School | Admission Schedule SY 2025-2026

The Philippines’ K to 12 program, enacted through Republic Act No. 10533 (Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013), mandates a 12-year basic education system, comprising one year of Kindergarten, six years of elementary education (Grades 1–6), four years of Junior High School (Grades 7–10), and two years of Senior High School (Grades 11–12). This replaced the previous 10-year basic education system to align with global standards, strengthen early childhood education, and prepare students for higher education, employment, or entrepreneurship. The program aims to produce competent, job-ready, and globally competitive graduates with strong foundational skills and values.

The MATATAG Curriculum, launched by the Department of Education (DepEd) on August 10, 2023, is a significant revision of the K to 10 curriculum (Kindergarten to Grade 10) within the K to 12 framework. It addresses challenges in the original curriculum, such as content overload and poor performance in national and international assessments, by decongesting the curriculum and focusing on essential skills. The term “MATATAG” stands for “MAkabagong kurikulum na napapanahon” (relevant curriculum), “TAlino na mula sa isip at puso” (intelligence from mind and heart), “TApang na humarap sa hamon” (courage to face challenges), and “Galing ng Pilipino” (Filipino excellence). Its overarching goal is to produce “competent, job-ready, active, responsible, and patriotic citizens” under the slogan “Bansang Makabata, Batang Makabansa.”

Kindergarten

The Kindergarten program (5 years old) provides a smooth transition to formal education by promoting physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development through play-based and developmentally appropriate learning experiences. Young learners are encouraged to demonstrate curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm in learning; develop basic literacy and numeracy skills; show social and emotional skills like cooperation, sharing, and self-regulation; develop physical coordination and motor skills; and understand and appreciate one’s culture, values, and environment.

Level/Grade	Objectives	Expected Outcomes
Kindergarten	Promote holistic development through play-based, child-centered activities to foster physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Develop early literacy, numeracy, and oral language skills using the Mother Tongue as the medium of instruction. Instill basic values (e.g., respect, cooperation) and socio-emotional skills to ensure school readiness. Introduce foundational patriotic and cultural awareness through age-appropriate activities.	Demonstrate age-appropriate competencies in oral language, pre-reading, pre-writing, and basic numeracy in the Mother Tongue. Exhibit socio-emotional maturity, such as following routines, sharing, and expressing emotions appropriately. Show curiosity, creativity, and readiness for Grade 1 through play-based learning. Display early awareness of Filipino culture and values through Makabansa-related activities.

Elementary (Grades 1 to 6)

The CLDHEI elementary program aims develop learners foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and social skills. The program strengthens the learner’s sense of nationalism, civic responsibility, and appreciation of Filipino culture and diversity. Elementary school learners are taught how to read with comprehension and communicate effectively in Filipino and English; solve problems using basic mathematical operations and logical reasoning; demonstrate understanding of science and environmental awareness; appreciate Filipino identity, heritage, and values; and show responsible citizenship and moral uprightness.

Level/Grade	Objectives	Expected Outcomes
Grade 1	Build foundational literacy and numeracy skills using the Mother Tongue as the primary medium, with introductory Filipino and English. Develop socio-emotional skills and basic values through Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) and Makabansa. Foster motor skills, creativity, and physical development through Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH). Encourage early critical thinking and collaboration through interactive learning activities.	Achieve basic proficiency in reading, writing, and oral communication in the Mother Tongue, with emerging skills in Filipino and English (via Language and Reading and Literacy subjects). Demonstrate foundational numeracy skills, such as counting, basic addition, and subtraction (via Mathematics). Exhibit values like honesty and respect, with awareness of civic duties through GMRC and Makabansa. Show physical coordination and creative expression through MAPEH activities, with readiness for structured learning in Grade 2.
Grade 2	Strengthen literacy and numeracy skills, transitioning to Filipino and English as primary media of instruction while using Mother Tongue for support. Enhance socio-emotional development and ethical behavior through GMRC and Makabansa. Promote creativity, physical fitness, and cultural awareness through MAPEH. Introduce basic problem-solving and analytical skills through structured tasks.	Demonstrate improved reading, writing, and comprehension in Filipino and English, with continued Mother Tongue fluency. Master basic arithmetic operations (e.g., addition, subtraction, multiplication) and apply them to simple word problems (via Mathematics). Show responsible behavior, empathy, and basic civic awareness through GMRC and Makabansa activities. Exhibit enhanced physical skills, artistic creativity, and cultural appreciation through MAPEH, with readiness for Grade 3’s introduction of Science.
Grade 3	Consolidate literacy and numeracy skills, fully transitioning to Filipino and English instruction, with Mother Tongue as an auxiliary language. Introduce foundational scientific concepts to foster curiosity and inquiry (via Science). Reinforce values, patriotism, and civic responsibility through GMRC and Makabansa. Develop initial critical thinking and project-based skills through interdisciplinary activities.	Achieve fluency in reading, writing, and communication in Filipino and English, with strong comprehension skills. Demonstrate proficiency in arithmetic and basic geometry, applying skills to real-life contexts (via Mathematics). Understand basic scientific concepts (e.g., living things, matter) and conduct simple experiments (via Science). Exhibit ethical behavior, cultural pride, and civic engagement, with readiness for intermediate learning in Grade 4.
Grade 4	Enhance intermediate literacy, numeracy, and scientific inquiry skills to build academic rigor. Develop critical thinking and research skills through Araling Panlipunan (Social Studies) and Science. Promote ethical decision-making and patriotism through Values Education (formerly GMRC) and Makabansa. Foster practical skills and career awareness through introductory Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE).	Produce well-structured written and oral outputs in Filipino and English, with improved comprehension of complex texts. Solve intermediate mathematical problems, including fractions and decimals, with practical applications (via Mathematics). Demonstrate understanding of scientific processes (e.g., ecosystems, forces) and Philippine history/culture (via Science and Araling Panlipunan). Show responsible citizenship and practical skills (e.g., basic home economics) through Values Education, Makabansa, and TLE, with readiness for Grade 5.
Grade 5	Deepen academic competencies in core subjects (Filipino, English, Mathematics, Science, Araling Panlipunan) to prepare for upper elementary challenges. Strengthen analytical and problem-solving skills through project-based and inquiry-based learning. Reinforce values, peace education, and civic responsibility through Values Education and Makabansa. Expand practical and technical skills through TLE to support career exploration.	Exhibit advanced literacy skills, including summarizing and analyzing texts in Filipino and English. Master operations with fractions, decimals, and percentages, applying them to real-world scenarios (via Mathematics). Understand complex scientific concepts (e.g., human body systems, energy) and historical events, with basic research skills (via Science and Araling Panlipunan). Demonstrate ethical behavior, conflict-resolution skills, and practical competencies (e.g., entrepreneurship basics) through Values Education, Makabansa, and TLE, with readiness for Grade 6.
Grade 6	Consolidate elementary-level competencies to prepare for Junior High School. Foster higher-order thinking skills (analysis, synthesis) through interdisciplinary projects in core subjects. Promote leadership, patriotism, and social responsibility through Values Education and Makabansa. Enhance practical and vocational skills through TLE to support career awareness.	Produce sophisticated written and oral outputs, with strong critical reading and communication skills in Filipino and English. Solve complex mathematical problems, including ratios, proportions, and basic algebra (via Mathematics). Demonstrate scientific reasoning and historical analysis, completing simple research projects (via Science and Araling Panlipunan). Exhibit leadership, ethical decision-making, and practical skills (e.g., basic business planning) through Values Education, Makabansa, and TLE, with readiness for Grade 7.

Junior High (Grades 7 to 10)

The junior high school program aims to deepen learners’ knowledge and skills in various subject areas, preparing learners for either higher education or vocational skills training thus nurturing independent and collaborative learning, critical and analytical thinking, and responsible digital and civic engagement. Learners in junior high school are taught how to apply scientific, mathematical, and technological knowledge to real-world situations; communicate effectively in Filipino, English, and mother tongue/regional languages; analyze social, historical, and cultural contexts to become socially aware citizens; demonstrate values such as discipline, honesty, and perseverance; and use technology and information responsibly and ethically.

Level/Grade	Objectives	Expected Outcomes
Grade 7	Introduce Junior High School rigor with deepened core subject knowledge (Filipino, English, Mathematics, Science, Araling Panlipunan, TLE, MAPEH, Values Education). Develop analytical and critical thinking skills through inquiry-based learning. Foster career exploration and technical skills through exploratory TLE. Reinforce patriotism, peace education, and ethical behavior through Values Education and Makabansa.	Demonstrate proficiency in intermediate core subjects, with improved academic writing and communication in Filipino and English. Solve algebraic expressions and conduct basic scientific experiments (via Mathematics and Science). Understand Philippine and Asian history and basic social science concepts (via Araling Panlipunan). Exhibit initial technical skills (e.g., ICT, agriculture) and ethical behavior, with readiness for Grade 8’s increased complexity.
Grade 8	Enhance academic competencies with a focus on interdisciplinary connections across core subjects. Develop higher-order thinking and research skills through project-based tasks. Expand career-oriented skills through specialized TLE modules. Promote civic engagement, peace competencies, and values through Values Education and Makabansa.	Produce analytical outputs, such as essays and reports, with strong communication skills in Filipino and English. Master linear equations, geometry, and scientific inquiry (e.g., chemical reactions) (via Mathematics and Science). Analyze historical and socio-political issues (e.g., world history) with basic research skills (via Araling Panlipunan). Demonstrate practical competencies (e.g., technical drawing, entrepreneurship) and ethical decision-making, with readiness for Grade 9.
Grade 9	Deepen core subject knowledge to prepare for Grade 10’s culminating requirements. Foster advanced critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills through complex tasks. Strengthen career readiness through specialized TLE courses aligned with student interests. Promote leadership, patriotism, and conflict-resolution skills through Values Education and Makabansa.	Exhibit advanced literacy and communication skills, producing research-based outputs in Filipino and English. Solve quadratic equations and conduct controlled experiments (via Mathematics and Science). Analyze global historical and civic issues with intermediate research skills (via Araling Panlipunan). Demonstrate specialized TLE skills (e.g., programming, home economics) and strong ethical values, with readiness for Grade 10’s integrative tasks.
Grade 10	Consolidate Junior High School competencies to prepare for Senior High School track selection. Foster synthesis and evaluation skills through culminating projects across core subjects. Enhance career and technical skills through TLE to support informed track choices. Promote active citizenship, peace education, and patriotism through Values Education and Makabansa.	Produce sophisticated research projects, essays, or presentations in Filipino and English, showcasing advanced communication skills. Master advanced algebra, statistics, and scientific research, applying skills to real-world problems (via Mathematics and Science). Analyze global issues and Philippine governance with strong research and civic engagement skills (via Araling Panlipunan). Demonstrate career-ready skills (e.g., business proposals, technical projects) and ethical leadership, with readiness to choose a Senior High School track (Academic, TVL, Sports, or Arts and Design).

Notes:

The MATATAG Curriculum (Kindergarten to Grade 10) reduces learning competencies by ~70%, focusing on foundational skills, values, and peace education. It structures subjects as follows:

Kindergarten: Play-based learning.
Grade 1: Language, Reading and Literacy, Mathematics, Makabansa, GMRC.
Grade 2: Filipino,- Grade 2: Filipino, English, Mathematics, Makabansa, GMRC.
Grade 3: Adds Science.
Grades 4–10: Filipino, English, Mathematics, Science, Araling Panlipunan, TLE, MAPEH, Values Education.

Mother Tongue is used as the medium of instruction in Kindergarten and Grades 1–3, transitioning to Filipino and English by Grade 4, with Mother Tongue as an auxiliary language.
Outcomes are cumulative, building on prior grades, and assume completion of the MATATAG Curriculum’s learning competencies.
The curriculum integrates 21st-century skills (critical thinking, collaboration, digital literacy) and aligns with global standards.

This detailed breakdown reflects the K to 12 program’s commitment to progressive, inclusive, and globally aligned education, with the MATATAG Curriculum ensuring relevance and effectiveness for each grade from Kindergarten to Grade 10.

Senior High School (Grades 11 and 12)

Academic Tracks ABM, HUMSS, and STEM

CLDHEI Senior High School program offers the Academic Track that prepares students for higher education, equipping them with theoretical knowledge, research skills, and academic discipline. The academic track is ideal for students who intend to pursue college or university education. It offers various strands aligned with specific fields of study.

Strand	Focus	Description
Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM)	Business, finance, entrepreneurship, and management.	Prepares students for business-related college courses and careers in business or enterprise.
Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS)	Critical thinking, communication, philosophy, and society.	Prepares students for fields like education, law, communication, psychology, and social work.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)	Scientific inquiry, mathematics, and technological innovations.	Ideal for students pursuing careers in engineering, medicine, nursing and allied health services, or natural sciences.

**Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM) Strand**
The Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) strand is designed to prepare students for careers in accountancy, business administration, finance, entrepreneurship, or management. The curriculum integrates core subjects (e.g., Oral Communication, General Mathematics), applied subjects (e.g., Business Ethics and Social Responsibility, Entrepreneurship), and specialized subjects (e.g., Fundamentals of Accountancy, Business, and Management) to develop business acumen, financial literacy, and leadership skills. The objectives and expected outcomes for Grades 11 and 12 in the ABM strand focus on equipping students for higher education, professional certifications, or immediate business-related roles, while fostering 21st-century skills and ethical values. Below is a detailed breakdown for each grade, aligned with the K to 12 program’s goals of producing competent, job-ready, and globally competitive graduates.

Level/Grade	Objectives	Expected Outcomes
Grade 11	Introduce Foundational Business Concepts: Provide knowledge of basic accounting principles, business operations, organizational management, and economic concepts to understand business processes. Develop Financial and Analytical Skills: Train students in financial statement preparation, business mathematics, and market analysis to support decision-making. Foster Entrepreneurial Thinking: Encourage skills in business planning, marketing, and innovation to lay the groundwork for entrepreneurship or management roles. Enhance Communication and Critical Thinking: Strengthen oral and written communication, teamwork, and problem-solving through core and applied subjects (e.g., Oral Communication, Applied Economics). Build Ethical Foundations: Introduce business ethics and social responsibility to promote responsible business practices and civic awareness.	Demonstrate proficiency in basic accounting, including journal entries, ledger preparation, and financial statement analysis (via Fundamentals of Accountancy, Business, and Management 1). Apply business mathematics and economic principles to real-world scenarios, such as cost analysis or market trends (via Business Mathematics, Applied Economics). Develop initial business plans or marketing strategies, showcasing creativity and organizational skills (via Organization and Management, Business Marketing). Exhibit effective communication and collaboration in group projects, presentations, or business simulations (via core subjects like Oral Communication in Context). Understand ethical business practices and their societal impact, with awareness of civic responsibilities (via Business Ethics and Social Responsibility). Acquire foundational 21st-century skills (e.g., critical thinking, financial literacy) to prepare for Grade 12’s advanced coursework.
Grade 12	Advance Business and Financial Expertise: Deepen knowledge of accounting, financial management, and business operations to prepare for college or professional certifications. Integrate Business Knowledge in Practical Applications: Enable students to create comprehensive business plans, conduct feasibility studies, and simulate real-world business scenarios. Strengthen Leadership and Entrepreneurial Skills: Cultivate advanced skills in strategic planning, organizational leadership, and entrepreneurship for business ventures or management roles. Promote Ethical and Social Responsibility: Reinforce ethical decision-making and corporate social responsibility to develop socially conscious business leaders. Prepare for Post-Secondary Pathways: Equip students for college programs in accountancy, business administration, or related fields, entry-level business roles, or entrepreneurial ventures.	Apply advanced accounting techniques, such as cost accounting, budgeting, and financial analysis, to complex business scenarios (via Fundamentals of Accountancy, Business, and Management 2). Produce a comprehensive business plan, including feasibility studies and financial projections, through a culminating project (via Business Enterprise Simulation). Demonstrate strategic decision-making and leadership in simulated business environments, applying concepts from Principles of Marketing and Business Finance. Exhibit ethical judgment and social responsibility in business practices, addressing real-world issues like sustainability or community impact (via Business Ethics and Social Responsibility). Graduate with readiness for college programs in accountancy, business administration, finance, or entrepreneurship, with skills to pursue entry-level roles (e.g., bookkeeping, sales, business operations) or start small enterprises. Possess advanced 21st-century skills, including problem-solving, financial analysis, collaboration, and adaptability, making them competitive in local and global business contexts.

Notes on ABM strand:

Curriculum Structure: The ABM strand includes:

Core Subjects (e.g., General Mathematics, Statistics and Probability, Personal Development) for well-rounded development.
Applied Subjects (e.g., Entrepreneurship, Applied Economics, Business Ethics and Social Responsibility) to bridge theory and practice.
Specialized Subjects (e.g., Fundamentals of ABM 1 & 2, Business Mathematics, Business Finance, Organization and Management, Principles of Marketing, Business Enterprise Simulation) for strand-specific expertise.

Alignment with K to 12 Goals: The ABM strand aligns with the K to 12 program’s focus on global competitiveness, employability, and civic responsibility, preparing students for diverse post-secondary pathways.
MATATAG Curriculum: While the MATATAG Curriculum applies to Kindergarten to Grade 10, its emphasis on foundational skills (e.g., critical thinking, numeracy) supports the academic rigor required in Senior High School.
Current Status: The Senior High School curriculum, including ABM, is under review as of 2024, but the objectives and outcomes remain consistent with DepEd’s curriculum guides.
Certifications: While not mandatory, students may pursue certifications (e.g., TESDA’s Bookkeeping NC III) through partnerships, enhancing employability.

This structured overview reflects the K to 12 program’s commitment to specialized, inclusive, and globally aligned education for ABM students, ensuring they are equipped for higher education, professional growth, or entrepreneurial success.

**Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Strand**
The Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand is designed to prepare students for careers in fields such as law, education, journalism, public administration, social work, or the liberal arts. The HUMSS curriculum integrates core subjects (e.g., Oral Communication, Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions), applied subjects (e.g., Entrepreneurship, Inquiries, Investigations, and Immersion), and specialized subjects (e.g., Introduction to World Religions and Belief Systems, Philippine Politics and Governance) to develop critical thinking, communication, and socio-cultural awareness. The objectives and expected outcomes for Grades 11 and 12 in the HUMSS strand focus on equipping students for higher education, civic engagement, or professional roles in humanities and social sciences, while fostering 21st-century skills and ethical values. Below is a detailed breakdown for each grade, aligned with the K to 12 program’s goals of producing competent, socially responsible, and globally competitive graduates.

Level/Grade	Objectives	Expected Outcomes
Grade 11	Introduce Core Concepts in Humanities and Social Sciences: Provide foundational knowledge in social sciences (e.g., sociology, psychology, political science) and humanities (e.g., literature, philosophy) to understand human behavior, culture, and societal dynamics. Develop Communication and Analytical Skills: Enhance oral and written communication, critical thinking, and argumentation through core and specialized subjects (e.g., Oral Communication, Creative Writing). Foster Civic and Cultural Awareness: Cultivate awareness of historical, political, and cultural contexts to promote active citizenship and appreciation of diversity. Build Initial Research and Inquiry Skills: Train students in basic research methods, data collection, and analysis to investigate social phenomena. Prepare for Advanced HUMSS Studies: Lay the groundwork for Grade 12’s deeper exploration of governance, community engagement, and interdisciplinary research.	Demonstrate understanding of social science and humanities disciplines, such as belief systems, social trends, and critical thinking frameworks (via Introduction to World Religions and Belief Systems, Trends, Networks, and Critical Thinking in the 21st Century). Produce well-structured essays, creative works, or oral presentations showcasing effective communication and analytical skills (via Creative Writing, Oral Communication in Context). Exhibit basic research skills, including data gathering and interpretation, in subjects like Disciplines and Ideas in the Social Sciences. Show awareness of Philippine culture, history, and governance, with initial civic engagement through discussions or community activities (via Philippine Politics and Governance, Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions). Acquire foundational 21st-century skills (e.g., critical thinking, collaboration, cultural sensitivity) to prepare for Grade 12’s advanced coursework and projects.
Grade 12	Deepen Knowledge of Social and Political Systems: Advance understanding of governance, community dynamics, and global issues to analyze complex societal challenges. Enhance Advanced Communication and Research Skills: Develop sophisticated skills in written and oral communication, qualitative/quantitative research, and policy analysis. Promote Leadership and Social Responsibility: Foster leadership, advocacy, and ethical decision-making to address social issues and contribute to community development. Integrate Interdisciplinary Knowledge: Synthesize humanities and social science concepts through culminating projects, such as community-based studies or policy proposals. Prepare for Post-Secondary Pathways: Equip students for college programs in law, education, journalism, or social sciences, as well as roles in public service, media, or community organizing.	Apply advanced research skills to complete a culminating project, such as a community-based study, policy analysis, or social advocacy plan (via Inquiries, Investigations, and Immersion, Community Engagement, Solidarity, and Citizenship). Produce complex written and oral outputs, such as policy briefs, creative nonfiction, or debates, demonstrating mastery of communication and critical analysis (via Creative Nonfiction, Philippine Politics and Governance). Demonstrate leadership and advocacy by proposing solutions to social issues through simulations, community projects, or presentations (via Community Engagement, Solidarity, and Citizenship). Exhibit deep understanding of governance, cultural diversity, and global issues, with skills to engage in civic and social discourse (via Disciplines and Ideas in the Applied Social Sciences). Graduate with readiness for college programs in law, education, journalism, social work, or public administration, with skills for entry-level roles in media, community organizing, or public service. Possess advanced 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, empathy, communication, and problem-solving, enabling contributions to societal development and global dialogue.

Notes on HUMSS strand:

Curriculum Structure: The HUMSS strand includes:

Core Subjects (e.g., Statistics and Probability, Personal Development, Understanding Culture, Society, and Politics) for well-rounded development.
Applied Subjects (e.g., Entrepreneurship, Inquiries, Investigations, and Immersion) to bridge theory and practice.
ecialized Subjects (e.g., Introduction to World Religions and Belief Systems, Trends, Networks, and Critical Thinking in the 21st Century, Philippine Politics and Governance, Creative Writing, Creative Nonfiction, Disciplines and Ideas in the Social Sciences, Disciplines and Ideas in the Applied Social Sciences, Community Engagement, Solidarity, and Citizenship) for strand-specific expertise.

Alignment with K to 12 Goals: The HUMSS strand aligns with the K to 12 program’s focus on global competitiveness, civic responsibility, and holistic development, preparing students for diverse post-secondary pathways.
MATATAG Curriculum: While the MATATAG Curriculum applies to Kindergarten to Grade 10, its emphasis on foundational skills (e.g., critical thinking, communication) supports the academic rigor required in Senior High School.
Current Status: The Senior High School curriculum, including HUMSS, is under review as of 2024, but the objectives and outcomes remain consistent with DepEd’s curriculum guides.
Practical Applications: HUMSS students often engage in community immersions, debates, or creative projects, enhancing their readiness for real-world civic and professional roles.

This structured overview reflects the K to 12 program’s commitment to specialized, inclusive, and globally aligned education for HUMSS students, ensuring they are equipped for higher education, civic engagement, or professional contributions in humanities and social sciences.

**Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)**
The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) strand is designed to prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or related fields, such as nursing and allied health services, medicine, computer science, or research. The STEM curriculum integrates core subjects (e.g., General Mathematics, Statistics and Probability), applied subjects (e.g., Research/Capstone Project, Entrepreneurship), and specialized subjects (e.g., Pre-Calculus, General Physics, General Chemistry, General Biology) to develop advanced scientific, mathematical, and technical skills. The objectives and expected outcomes for Grades 11 and 12 in the STEM strand focus on equipping students for higher education, STEM-related careers, or innovation-driven roles, while fostering 21st-century skills and ethical values. Below is a detailed breakdown for each grade, aligned with the K to 12 program’s goals of producing competent, job-ready, and globally competitive graduates.

Level/Grade	Objectives	Expected Outcomes
Grade 11	Build Foundational STEM Knowledge: Provide in-depth understanding of advanced mathematics (e.g., pre-calculus), sciences (e.g., physics, chemistry, biology), and earth science to establish a strong academic base. Develop Scientific Inquiry and Analytical Skills: Train students in experimental design, data analysis, and problem-solving to foster scientific reasoning and critical thinking. Introduce Technical and Computational Skills: Cultivate skills in mathematical modeling, basic programming, or engineering design to support STEM applications. Enhance Communication and Collaboration: Strengthen oral and written communication, teamwork, and presentation skills through core and applied subjects (e.g., Oral Communication, Practical Research). Prepare for Advanced STEM Studies: Lay the groundwork for Grade 12’s rigorous coursework and research-intensive projects in STEM disciplines.	Demonstrate proficiency in advanced mathematics, including functions, trigonometry, and introductory calculus (via Pre-Calculus). Understand fundamental scientific concepts, such as mechanics, chemical reactions, cellular biology, and earth systems, with basic experimental skills (via General Physics 1, General Chemistry 1, General Biology 1, Earth Science). Conduct simple experiments or data analyses, applying scientific methods and mathematical modeling (via Practical Research 1 or lab-based subjects). Exhibit effective communication and collaboration in group projects, lab reports, or presentations (via Oral Communication in Context, Reading and Writing Skills). Acquire foundational 21st-century skills (e.g., critical thinking, problem-solving, digital literacy) to prepare for Grade 12’s advanced STEM challenges.
Grade 12	Advance STEM Expertise: Deepen knowledge in advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus) and sciences (e.g., physics, chemistry, biology) to prepare for college-level STEM courses. Foster Research and Innovation: Enable students to design and execute research projects or prototypes, applying scientific inquiry and engineering principles. Strengthen Technical and Analytical Skills: Develop advanced skills in data analysis, computational thinking, or engineering design for real-world STEM applications. Promote Ethical and Social Responsibility: Integrate ethical considerations in scientific and technological advancements, fostering responsible innovation. Prepare for Post-Secondary Pathways: Equip students for college programs in engineering, medicine, computer science, or pure sciences, as well as entry-level STEM roles or innovation-driven careers.	Apply advanced mathematical concepts, such as derivatives and integrals, to solve complex problems (via Basic Calculus). Master sophisticated scientific principles, such as electromagnetism, organic chemistry, and genetics, with advanced experimental skills (via General Physics 2, General Chemistry 2, General Biology 2). Complete a research or capstone project, such as a scientific experiment, engineering prototype, or data-driven study, showcasing innovation and inquiry (via Research/Capstone Project). Demonstrate technical skills, such as programming, statistical analysis, or engineering design, through specialized electives or project work. Graduate with readiness for college programs in engineering, medicine, computer science, or pure sciences, with skills for entry-level STEM roles (e.g., lab assistant, data analyst) or innovation-driven ventures. Possess advanced 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, creativity, technological literacy, and collaboration, making them competitive in global STEM fields.

Notes on STEM Strand:

Curriculum Structure: The STEM strand includes:

Core Subjects (e.g., Statistics and Probability, Personal Development, Understanding Culture, Society, and Politics) for well-rounded development.
Applied Subjects (e.g., Practical Research 1 and 2, Entrepreneurship, Research/Capstone Project) to bridge theory and practice.
Specialized Subjects (e.g., Pre-Calculus, Basic Calculus, General Physics 1 and 2, General Chemistry 1 and 2, General Biology 1 and 2, Earth Science) for strand-specific expertise.

Alignment with K to 12 Goals: The STEM strand aligns with the K to 12 program’s focus on global competitiveness, employability, and innovation, preparing students for diverse post-secondary pathways.
MATATAG Curriculum: While the MATATAG Curriculum applies to Kindergarten to Grade 10, its emphasis on foundational skills (e.g., critical thinking, numeracy) supports the academic rigor required in Senior High School.
Current Status: The Senior High School curriculum, including STEM, is under review as of 2024, but the objectives and outcomes remain consistent with DepEd’s curriculum guides.
Practical Applications: STEM students engage in laboratory work, research projects, or competitions (e.g., science fairs), enhancing their readiness for STEM careers or academic pursuits.

This structured overview reflects the K to 12 program’s commitment to specialized, inclusive, and globally aligned education for STEM students, ensuring they are equipped for higher education, professional growth, or innovation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.