UPAYA MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN MENGENAL BENTUK GEOMETRI MELALUI KEGIATAN BERMAIN BENDA LOOSE PART KELOMPOK B DI RA BINA AMANAH KOTA BATU

Abstract

This study aims to describe the initial ability of children in Group B to recognize geometric shapes, the learning process using loose parts, the teacher’s efforts during the activities, and changes in the children’s abilities after participating in the learning activities. The study employed a qualitative, descriptive approach. The study was conducted at RA Bina Amanah in Batu City with 18 children in Group B and their classroom teacher as the research subjects. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions, while data validity was verified through technique triangulation and source triangulation. The results of the study indicate that the teacher planned the learning activities by setting objectives, developing lesson plans or teaching modules, and preparing safe and varied loose-part materials. The activities were implemented through introductory, core, and concluding stages, providing children with opportunities to observe, select, group, and arrange objects into circles, triangles, and squares. The children showed progress in naming shapes, correctly identifying shapes, grouping objects based on shape, assembling geometric shapes, and relating them to objects in their surroundings. The children also appeared more active, enthusiastic, focused, and confident. Challenges such as a noisy classroom, scattered materials, and competition for materials were addressed by providing adequate materials and effective management.