Mechanistic Reasoning, Learning Engagement, Scientific Learning Skills and Content Knowledge in Science Among Grade 10 Students in the Division of Aklan: Basis for Learning Enhancement Program

Aim:The study primarily evaluated the mechanistic reasoning skills, learning engagement, scientific learning skills, and content knowledge in Science among Grade 10 students in the Division of Aklan, providing a basis for a Learning Enhancement Program (LEP).Methods: This survey-correlational research design using researcher-made tests and checklists was utilized as a tool on gathering data needed for the study.The study involved 370 out of 9,587 Grade 10 students.Descriptive statistics used in the study were frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation and for inferential analyses were ANOVA, Pearson r, and linear regression.Results: The findings indicated that mechanistic reasoning skills were "moderately evident," with decomposing systems, causality and evidence, building frameworks, and applying and refining understanding all rated similarly.However, metacognition and curiosity were rated as "highly evident."Learning engagement and scientific learning skills were also "moderately evident," with high ratings in taking notes, reading textbooks, memorizing, and preparing tests.Content knowledge in Science was rated as "moderate."Significant difference in content knowledge were observed across the levels of mechanistic reasoning and scientific learning skills, but no significant difference was found concerning learning engagement.Relationships were established between mechanistic reasoning, learning engagement, scientific learning skills, and content knowledge.Mechanistic reasoning skills, learning engagement, and scientific learning skills were identified as significant predictors of content knowledge.To address the identified gaps, a Learning Enhancement Program (LEP) was developed, focusing on improving mechanistic reasoning skills, learning engagement, and scientific learning skills to content knowledge in Science among Grade 10 students in the Division of Aklan. Conclusion:The results revealed that overall proficiency of Grade 10 students in the Division of Aklan in Science demonstrates a moderate level across mechanistic reasoning skills, learning engagement, scientific learning skills, and content knowledge.While students exhibit strengths in metacognition, curiosity, and foundational study practices such as note-taking and test preparation, their engagement and deeper comprehension of scientific concepts remain areas for improvement.The moderate level of content knowledge and mechanistic reasoning skills suggests the need for targeted strategies to enhance their ability to apply scientific understanding to complex problems.Strengthening learning engagement, time management, and higher-order reasoning can further support their scientific literacy and overall academic performance.