TENGKO SITURU’-BASED CONTEXTUAL LEARNING TO ENHANCE ENGLISH VOCABULARY MASTERY AND CHARACTER VALUES AMONG ELEMENTARY STUDENTS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47178/b46ece58Keywords:
english vocabulary learning, local wisdom, contextual learning, young learners, character valuesAbstract
This study aims to improve young learners’ English vocabulary mastery and promote character values through the integration of Tengko Situru’ local wisdom in contextual English learning. The study was conducted in the fourth grade of UPT SDN 2 Mengkendek using Classroom Action Research implemented in two cycles, consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection. The participants were 15 elementary school students. Data were collected through vocabulary tests, classroom observation, interviews, and documentation. The data were analyzed using descriptive qualitative and quantitative methods by referring to individual and classical learning achievement indicators. The findings showed that integrating Tengko Situru’ values into English vocabulary learning improved students’ vocabulary mastery and classroom participation. In the preliminary stage, the students’ average score was 65, with a classical achievement of 40%. In Cycle I, the average score increased to 74.4, with a classical achievement of 73.3%. Furthermore, in Cycle II, the average score improved to 85, with a classical achievement of 86.7%. Besides the improvement in vocabulary learning outcomes, positive changes were also observed in students’ character values, including cooperation, responsibility, care, and mutual respect. These values reflect the principles of Tengko Situru’ as local wisdom of the Toraja community. Therefore, contextual English learning based on Tengko Situru’ local wisdom can be considered an effective strategy to support young learners’ language development while strengthening character education.
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