The improvement of higher order thinking skills through learning cycle 7E on analyzing human excretion

Abstract

Higher-order thinking skills are needed by students in the XXI century. Students with high-level thinking ability can understand problems and distinguish ideas clearly and are able to solve problems based on prior knowledge. Learning with Learning Cycle 7E facilitates student’s ability to find concepts and apply knowledge in everyday life. The objective of this study was to determine the improvement of HOTS by the implementation of Learning Cycle 7E. This study employed mixed methods with embedded experimental type. The quantitative data were collected through pretest and posttest values, while the qualitative data were collected through observations of the learning process, photo documentation, LKPD (student worksheet) answers, and the result of interviews. The instruments used in this study are RPP (lesson plan), LKPD, the sheet of learning observation, and HOTS test. Quantitative data analysis was carried out by t-test (paired sample t-test) to determine the significance of exercise and then calculating of impact strength by N-gain and d-effect size. Qualitative data analysis was carried out by scatter plot analysis and students responses to LKPD. The results of the t-test show that there are differences in the value of the pretest and posttest. The calculation results of normalized gain (N-gain) shows a value of 0.67 can be considered high. The calculation results of d-effect size showed a value of 8.36 which can be considered very high. It can be concluded that HOTS effectively improved by Learning Cycle 7E on Analyzing Human Excretion.