The THE EFFECTIVENESS OF WORD SEARCH PUZZLES ON READING COMPREHENSION ABILITY AT SMP IT AL AJWA

A study at SMP IT Al Ajwa

Abstract

The title of this study is "Effectiveness of Word Search Puzzles on Reading Comprehension Ability at SMP IT Al Ajwa." This research was presented as a thesis submitted to the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education at Prima Bangsa Institute in July 2024. The study focuses on the use of word search puzzles as a tool to enhance students' reading comprehension skills. The purpose of this research is to find empirical evidence regarding the effect of using word search puzzles on students' ability to understand reading. The study was conducted on students at SMP IT Al Ajwa Cimaung, utilizing an experimental research method. The entire population of this research comprises students at SMP IT Al Ajwa Cimaung, with a sample of 80 students. The sample was divided into two groups: the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group consisted of 40 students from class A, while the control group consisted of 40 students from class B. The data collection instruments used in this research included tests and observations. The tests were employed to measure students' reading comprehension ability, while the observations were used to examine the implementation of the word search puzzles strategy in the learning process. After data collection was completed, the data were analyzed to determine the effect of using word search puzzles on students' reading comprehension ability. The results of the data analysis indicated that the obtained value was 2.21, while the table value was 1.994. Therefore, the obtained value was higher than the table value, indicating a significant influence of using the word search puzzle strategy on students' reading comprehension ability. This research provides an important contribution to the field of education, especially in seeking innovative ways to enhance students' literacy skills. By using games like word search puzzles, students can become more engaged and motivated in learning, which, in turn, can improve their ability to comprehend reading texts. The study also suggests that teachers in other schools consider using similar strategies in their teaching, especially in improving students' reading and comprehension abilities. With strong empirical evidence, it is hoped that this strategy can become part of the learning curriculum in schools. Further research is also needed to explore the long-term impact of using this strategy and to see if similar results can be achieved in different contexts or with different student populations

Keywords: Word Search Puzzles, Reading Comprehension Ability, Students' Literacy Skills, Experimental Research Method, Effectiveness of Word Search