Abstract
This study investigates the influence of elective subjects on the academic achievement of Grade 7 science class learners at Holy Cross High School, Incorporated in the Philippines. It examines the influence of elective subjects, namely Speech, Astronomy, and Statistical Research, on student motivation, engagement, and performance in core subjects like English, Science, and Mathematics. The research employed a descriptive-correlational design, analyzing data from a total population of 42 Grade 7 students enrolled in science curriculum with elective subjects. The findings indicate that elective subjects significantly enhance student motivation and engagement in science learning. Students reported high levels of enjoyment and a strong sense of accomplishment in their electives, particularly those that emphasized critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world applications. Furthermore, students demonstrated exceptionally high levels of academic achievement in both core and elective subjects, with the majority achieving "Outstanding" or "Very Satisfactory" ratings. A significant relationship was observed between learner’s academic achievement and the influence of elective subjects, suggesting that electives contribute significantly to overall academic achievement. The study concludes that elective subjects play a valuable role in enhancing the science curriculum for Grade 7 students at Holy Cross High School, Incorporated. The findings emphasize the importance of designing electives that integrate higher-order thinking skills, problem-solving activities, and real-world applications to maximize student motivation, engagement, and academic achievement.
