ENGLISH LEARNING ACTIVITIES IN THE MERDEKA CURRICULUM FOR 7TH GRADE STUDENTS AT SMP NEGERI 3 TANJUNG PALAS
The purpose of this study was to investigate how the Merdeka Curriculum was implemented to teach English for seventh-grade students at SMP Negeri 3 Tanjung Palas. Descriptive qualitative research methodology was employed, and document analysis, observation, and interviews were used to gather data. Twenty-four students from seventh-grade and the English teacher participated in this study. Despite time constraints and a lack of clear communication about learning objectives, which could impact student understanding, the results demonstrated that teachers were quite flexible in managing their time and making sure learning objectives were met. In order to demonstrate concern for their students’ behaviour and study habits, teachers constantly urged them to participate fully in class discussions and adhered to the rules. These results showed that, in spite of these difficulties, the Merdeka Curriculum’s introduction in Grade 7A English classes improved student learning and instructors’ capacity to adjust to the new curriculum.