Last Updated: August 7, 2025. For Grade 9 learners in the Philippines, assessment is more than a test. It’s a compass that guides instruction, learning strategies and student growth. In the context of the Department of Education (DepEd), assessments such as the Grade 9 MELC 1st Periodical Tests for SY 2025–2026 play a vital role in measuring educational progress and ensuring quality teaching and learning.

Inside the classroom, students engage in a variety of evaluative activities including written tests, projects, discussions, observations and group work. These activities, whether formal or informal are designed not just to assign grades but to understand how students think, feel, and apply what they’ve learned. More importantly, they reflect DepEd’s commitment to holistic learning by addressing three core domains: cognitive (thinking skills), affective (attitudes and values) and psychomotor (physical or motor skills), a classification first introduced by educational theorist Benjamin Bloom.

What is the DepEd Grade 9 MELC 1st Periodical Tests?

The Grade 9 MELC-aligned Periodical Test is part of DepEd’s quarterly evaluation strategy under the MATATAG curriculum. These tests are standardized but adaptable designed around the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCs) for each subject area—Math, Science, English, Filipino, Araling Panlipunan, and more.

These tests are criterion-referenced, meaning performance is measured based on set standards, not compared against other students. This makes it easier for teachers to assess actual mastery and adjust instruction where needed.

With the MATATAG curriculum in place, DepEd aims to provide clearer and more relevant standards. These are represented by the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELCs), which form the foundation for standardized evaluations such as the Grade 9 Periodical Test. These tests are structured to help teachers assess not only knowledge retention but also deeper understanding and practical application across subjects.

As students prepare for these assessments, many factors influence how they approach studying, from interest in the subject and motivation levels to expectations of how they’ll be tested. Thus, classroom evaluation has a strong influence on shaping learning behavior.

In this guide, we’ll explore what the DepEd Grade 9 1st Periodical Test is all about, how it supports learning objectives, and how teachers, parents and learners can make the most of it.

DepEd 1st Periodical Tests Schedule

AUGUST 20 & 22, 2025
( Wednesday & Friday)

DepEd 1st Quarter Examination Schedule School Year 2025 – 2026

SOURCE: DepEd School Calendar and Activities for School Year 2025-2026

Summary and Key Points

The DepEd Grade 9 1st Periodical Test is a MELC-based, criterion-referenced tool that assesses knowledge, skills, and values.
Classroom assessments should evaluate cognitive, affective and psychomotor development.
These tests guide instructional decisions and encourage deeper, more meaningful learning.
Teachers should combine test data with informal assessments for a complete picture of student performance.

Download Grade 9 MELC 1st Periodical Tests with TOS and KEY | SY 2025 – 2026

Get the latest DepEd Club FREE Files below. These are updated for MATATAG Curriculum | With Answer Key and Table of Specifications (TOS).

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR QUARTER 1

Looking for more FREE DepEd teaching resources? The following DepEd files are also updated weekly:

How to Use These Tests Effectively

Teachers and parents can maximize the effectiveness of these assessments by:
- Reviewing previous test results to identify strengths and weaknesses
- Using tests as study tools, not just final grades
- Encouraging reflective learning, where students analyze what they got wrong and why
- Focusing on skill application, not just memorization
- Linking test content to real-world contexts for better engagement

Answer Keys and Notes

Each of the updated Grade 9 Periodical Test includes a reliable answer key, closely aligned with MELCs. These keys help:

Validate correct answers with clear rationales
Highlight common misconceptions
Provide lesson references to support remediation
Facilitate feedback sessions and learning dialogues

Parents and educators are encouraged to treat answer keys as tools for improvement, not just grading. Encourage learners to revisit incorrect answers and engage in feedback-driven learning.

Stay Updated

Whether you’re a teacher preparing lessons, a student aiming to do better, or a parent supporting your child, remember that assessments are not the end goal. They’re tools to promote understanding, reflection and growth.
Download your Grade 9 MELC-based 1st Quarter Periodical Tests with TOS and Answer Key today and give your learners a strong start this school year!

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