THE USE OF THE METHOD USING HAND PUPPET MEDIA IN IMPROVING THE SPEAKING SKILLS OF CHILDREN AGED 5-6 YEARS IN RA YUSRIAH

Abstract

This study aims to improve the speaking skills of children aged 5-6 years through storytelling methods assisted by hand puppet media at RA Yusriyah. The background of this study is based on the results of initial observations that show the low speaking ability of children, especially in terms of articulation, intonation, and vocabulary mastery. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach in the form of Class Action Research (PTK) which is carried out in two cycles. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model. The results of the pre-action study showed that most children were still in the starting developing category (MB). After the application of hand puppet media in storytelling activities during five meetings in Cycle I, there was a significant increase; 24 children reached the category of developing according to expectations (BSH), and 3 children were in the category of developing very well (BSB). Improvements can be seen in the aspects of vocabulary mastery, sentence composition, voice intonation, and courage to speak. Hand puppet media has been proven to be effective in creating a fun, interactive learning atmosphere and facilitating children to be more confident in expressing ideas. This study recommends the use of hand puppet media as a fun language learning strategy in early childhood education.