Exploring vertical coherence of content topics in Philippine spiral Kto10 mathematics curriculum

Abstract

Vertical coherence of the content topics coupled with careful sequencing of learning competencies considering student's cognitive level of development has been identified as an excellent characteristic of a well-planned spiral progression approach of the curriculum. This descriptive-evaluative method of study tailored with the Discrepancy Evaluation Model (DEM) as a framework of analysis explored the Philippine Kindergarten to Grade 10 (Kto10) mathematics curriculum guide (CG) to determine the program strengths and areas that need improvement. The qualitative approach to the analysis of CG is supported by the feedbacks and experiences of 16 teacher-informants (3Male, 13Female). The curriculum mapping revealed that content topics were arranged in increasing complexity (though there were observed discontinuity) with the corresponding progression of mathematical tasks across the grade level. However, the spiral design of the curriculum failed to decongest the distribution of the content and learning competencies which became unrealistic to implement for general classrooms according to the level of cognitive development of Filipino learners as revealed by the feedbacks and experiences of mathematics teachers. The K to 10 Mathematics curriculum needs revision covering the most essential learning competencies (vertically arranged) per content area anchored on international benchmarks.