Designing Project-Based Learning Instruments Integrated with TPACK Framework to Enhance Students’ HOTs

21st-century learning requires every student to have thinking skills, work habits, and character to achieve an independent and successful life. Learning in schools must develop students’ thinking skills, including biology learning. The learning process in schools has undergone many changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. A study by the Ministry of Education, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) stated that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant decline in student literacy and numeracy and a learning loss. Learning in schools faces many challenges. Efforts and strategies are needed to empower thinking skills and learning recovery during the transition to the post-pandemic era in the Merdekabelajar program, including choosing appropriate learning strategies. Constructive and effective learning strategies. The Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model is the right learning model to implement by activating students through project assignments to achieve an in-depth understanding of essential materials and HOTS empowerment. The PjBL model is effective for catching up on learning so far, but tends only to activate high-achieving students. Students with low academic abilities, including low analysis, synthesis, and creation skills, cannot follow the learning process. The PjBL model needs to be integrated into an approach that considers pedagogical concepts, technology, and scientific content, namely the Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) approach.