The Implementation of Merdeka Curriculum in Teaching English at Junior High Schools in Kupang City: A Case Study

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in teaching English at junior high schools in Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara, from July to August 2024. The research focused on three objectives: (1) to analyze how English teachers prepared lesson plans, (2) to explore how they used lesson plans in the learning process, and (3) to assess student achievement within the Merdeka Curriculum framework. The study employed a case study approach, involving three English teachers from different schools. Data were collected through interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. The findings revealed that teachers demonstrated autonomy in lesson planning, varied their teaching strategies, and utilized diverse assessment methods. However, the research also highlighted challenges such as time constraints, the need for professional development, and limited technology integration. This study offers practical implications for enhancing the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in English language teaching.