Analysis of the ability of mathematical connections of middle school students in the field of algebra

Abstract

The world of education continues to innovate in various fields, including renewal in its implementation strategies. Mathematical connection ability is one of the important abilities possessed by students. Mathematical connections aim to link mathematical problems into mathematical ideas they have. If students can use mathematical connections, learning will be optimal and meaningful. This study aims to describe students’ mathematical connection skills in solving the problem of mathematical connections in the algebraic field. This research uses descriptive qualitative research with the subject of the research is class VIII in Surakarta Batik Middle School, amounting to 57 students. Data collection is done by giving a test in the form of a more in-depth essay on mathematical connection skills in the algebraic field. The variables in this study are indicators of mathematical connection ability, namely the connection between mathematical concepts, connections between mathematics and other sciences, and connections between mathematics and everyday life. In this study, students’ mathematical connection ability tests were still low. Can be seen from the percentage of each indicator, namely the indicator of the connection between mathematical concepts is 38%, the connection between mathematics and other sciences is 29%, and the connection between mathematics and everyday life is 43%. Students are lowest in connecting mathematics with other sciences.