Context-Based Instructional Activities in Grade 7 Biology Using Inquiry Based Learning

This study sought to develop and validate Context-based Instructional (CBI) Activities in Grade 7 Biology using inquiry-based learning according to the content standards and learning competencies prescribed in the DepEd Science Curriculum Guide (2016). The framework of the study supported the K to 12 science as learner-centered and inquiry-based emphasizing the use of evidence in constructing explanations.

The development has undergone four phases: Phase 1-Developing and Designing the context-based instructional activities, Phase 2-Validating the developed context-based instructional activities, Phase 3–Revising and finalizing the developed and validated context - based instructional activities, and Phase 4-Pilot testing and Full Implementation. The developed context-based instructional activities were placed in the Explore phase of the 7E instructional model since this phase gives students various opportunities to think freely but within the limits of the activities under the facilitation of the teacher.

The developed CBI activities were validated obtaining acceptable rating in terms of objectives, content, organization and presentation, language and style and indicators for contextualization. It was found have an effect in enhancing student conceptual understanding and engaging students in cognitive, emotional, and behavioural dimensions of learning based on the quantitative and qualitative findings of the study.

It is recommended to use the developed and validated context-based instructional activities as supplementary instructional material in Grade 7 Science in teaching biological concepts and to integrate the context-based instructional activities into multimedia software or other computer applications.