EXPLORING ENGLISH TEACHERS’ DIFFICULTIES IN DESIGNING LESSON PLAN BASED ON MERDEKA CURRICULUM (A Descriptive Study in SMP ST. Carolus Bengkulu)

The aims of this study is to explore the challenges faced by English teachers at SMP
St. Carolus Bengkulu in designing lesson plans based on the Merdeka Curriculum.
It aims to identify specific difficulties and provide insights to support curriculum
implementation. A qualitative descriptive approach was used, involving purposive
sampling of three English teachers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews
and document analysis of lesson plans, with validation by experts for reliability.
The interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns
and themes related to teachers’ challenges. Meanwhile, the lesson plan documents
were evaluated using a table checklist to assess the presence and quality of essential
components as outlined in the Merdeka Curriculum guidelines. Teachers
experienced difficulties in understanding curriculum components, aligning
character values with material, designing student-centered and project-based
learning, managing diverse student needs, accessing learning resources, and
creating effective assessments. The study recommends comprehensive teacher
training, clearer government guidelines, and improved resource support to facilitate
effective lesson plan development and enhance the implementation of the Merdeka
Curriculum.
Keywords: Merdeka Curriculum, Lesson Plan Design, English
Teachers,Teachers Challenges.