Fostering Character Education Through Speech Implementation: A Case Study of Language Learning in Indonesia

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Objective: This study examines the implementation of speech acts in strengthening character education through Indonesian language learning at SMA Negeri Rawalo Banyumas. Specifically, it analyzes how illocutionary and perlocutionary speech acts are utilized by teachers to build students' character, focusing on values such as integrity, responsibility, discipline, and a love of reading. Theoretical Framework: The study is grounded in pragmatics, particularly the theory of speech acts, including illocutionary acts (expressive, commissive, verdictive, and expositive) and perlocutionary acts (representative, directive, commissive, and expressive). This framework underpins the analysis of how language use can serve as a medium to internalize moral values and foster character education in formal educational contexts. Method: A qualitative descriptive approach was used, with a case study design. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. These methods provided a comprehensive understanding of the strategic use of speech acts by teachers in Indonesian language classes. Results and Discussion: The results show that teachers strategically employ various speech acts to create a conducive learning environment for character education. Verbal expressions combined with concrete actions effectively internalize values such as integrity, responsibility, discipline, and a love of reading. Thematic analysis reveals that speech acts serve not only as communication tools but also as mechanisms for moral education in the classroom. Research Implications: This study highlights the crucial role of teachers in shaping students' character through effective speech acts. The findings offer practical recommendations for integrating speech act strategies into teaching practices to strengthen character education, which can also be applied to other subjects for a holistic educational approach. Originality/Value: This research contributes both theoretically and practically to the study of pragmatics and education. It provides novel insights into how speech acts can be integrated into teaching strategies to reinforce character education, particularly within the context of Indonesian language learning. The study emphasizes the importance of embedding moral values into formal education processes to nurture well-rounded individuals.