Development of Higher-Order Thinking Skills Among Grade Six Learners in Relation to Their Socio-Demographic Profile

This study examined the development of higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) among Grade Six learners in Araling Panlipunan in relation to their socio-demographic profile at Apyao Elementary School, Quezon IV District, Bukidnon, using a descriptive-correlational design with 100 purposively selected respondents. Data showed that most learners were 12 years old (52%), female (57%), Roman Catholic (52%), from low-income families earning ₱5,000 and below (50%), and living in households with 4–6 members (60%). In terms of HOTS, analytical thinking was rated moderately high (M = 2.68, SD = 0.793), while critical thinking (M = 2.15, SD = 0.507), comprehension (M = 2.57, SD = 0.611), and reasoning (M = 2.57, SD = 0.777) were all at low levels, indicating limited mastery among learners. Pearson correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between demographic variables (age, sex, religious affiliation, income, and household size) and HOTS development (r = 0.010–0.115, p > 0.05), suggesting that these factors do not significantly influence cognitive skill development. The findings underscore the need for targeted instructional interventions and improved pedagogical strategies to enhance higher-order thinking skills in Araling Panlipunan.