Analysis of Elementary School Students' Learning Difficulties on Square and Rectangular Material

Abstract

Students do not achieve the expected learning outcomes when they experience difficulties learning mathematics. Because the difficulties faced by students can hinder the achievement of learning goals if left unchecked, educators must assess and immediately take action. The aim of this
research is to analyze the difficulties of fifth grade students in one of the schools in Bandung Regency, Bandung City in answering and understanding questions about the area of square and rectangular shapes. This research uses a type of qualitative research in the form of a written description test on square and rectangular area material given to 3 school students in Bandung. The results of the analysis show that students have difficulty answering questions related to the area of squares and rectangles. Through the results of the analysis, it can be seen that the factors causing students' difficulties in working on problems with flat shapes are (1) internal factors, namely (a) students do not understand the concept, have difficulty applying the principles and properties of squares and rectangles, and have difficulty in solving verbal problems of area of a square and rectangle. rectangle (b) students do not memorize multiplication and (c) students are not careful in working on the questions. (2) external factors in the teacher's explanation that students do not understand. The efforts made by teachers are to use effective media and learning models, motivate students, help students when they face difficulties, and learning mathematics requires repetition and increasing the frequency of practice questions, so that students can understand mathematical concepts. Efforts that students can make are by taking part in tutoring and additional study outside of school and studying regularly at home with the guidance of older siblings or parents.