Analysis of Early Mathematical Problem-Solving Ability in Mathematics Learning for Junior High School Student

Abstract

Problem solving ability is one of the mathematical abilities that is very important so that students are able to apply the concepts they have learned. The purpose of this study was to analyze the initial ability of mathematical problem solving in mathematics learning of eighth grade students of junior high school. this is seen from the indicators as follows; 1) Identifying the elements that are known, asked, and the adequacy of the elements needed, 2) Formulating problems or compiling mathematical models, 3) Implementing strategies to solve various problems inside or outside mathematics, and 4) Summing up the results. The instrument used in this study was a preliminary test of students’ mathematical problem-solving abilities with questions as many as 3 items and a research sample of 32 people in the first school and 30 people in the second school. Assessment of students’ mathematical problem solving ability tests is based on a scoring rubric of mathematical problem solving abilities. Based on the results of this study, the percentage of students’ mathematical problem solving abilities was 18.95% and 14.57. The results of this study indicate the low ability of students to solve mathematical problems and the need for further action to improve them.