Improving the Conceptual Understanding of Grade 9 Learners Using Biotrail-<i>Larong Pinoy: A Photosynthesis Quest</i>

Introduction: this study examined the effectiveness of Biotrail-Larong Pinoy: A Photosynthesis Quest, a culturally responsive, game-based instructional intervention, in improving the conceptual understanding of photosynthesis among Grade 9 learners at Mat-i (Naawan) National High School, Philippines.Methods: a one-group pretest-posttest design under a quantitative approach was employed. The intervention consisted of a series of interactive activities based on traditional Filipino games (Larong Pinoy) contextualized to photosynthesis concepts, including the light-dependent and light-independent reactions, chlorophyll function, and glucose formation.Results: findings revealed a significant increase in students’ posttest scores (mean increase from 10.00 to 11.81, p< 0.05), suggesting improved conceptual understanding. A strong positive correlation was observed between pretest and posttest scores (r = 0.819), and a reduced standard deviation in posttest results indicated more consistent learner performance.Conclusions: the integration of culturally relevant and game-based strategies enhanced learner engagement, motivation, and understanding of abstract scientific concepts. The intervention demonstrated promise as an inclusive instructional tool. Incorporating collaborative learning strategies and expanding its application to other science topics are recommended to deepen learning and foster interdisciplinary connections.