Application of Experiental Learning Method to Improve Students' Ability to Find the Structure and Language Rules of Experimental Report Texts

Abstract

The ability to identify linguistic structures and rules in experimental report texts is an important competency in Indonesian language classes. However, diagnostic assessment results in class IX-4 at SMP Negeri 6 Gorontalo indicate that the majority of students still have difficulty identifying these two aspects. Of the total 28 students, only 2 managed to obtain scores above the Minimum Passing Criteria (KKM). This difficulty is thought to be caused by the use of monotonous teaching methods that are not relevant to the context. This study aims to improve students' competence in identifying the structure and linguistic rules of experimental report texts through the application of experiential learning methods. This study is designed as a Classroom Action Research (CAR) consisting of two cycles, with stages of planning, action, observation, and reflection. To collect data, tests and observations of teacher and student activities were used. In cycle I, only 21.4% of students achieved mastery with an average class score of 66.4. After improvements were made in teaching in cycle II, all students (100%) achieved mastery, with the average score increasing to 86.5. This improvement indicates that the application of experiential learning methods can enhance students' proficiency in language structure and rules. Based on these results, it is concluded that experiential learning methods can be effectively applied in Indonesian language lessons, particularly in scientific factual texts. These findings can serve as a basis for developing contextual and enjoyable learning models aligned with the principles of the Merdeka Curriculum.