Improving English Speaking Skills Through The Project Based Learning Model

Abstract

This Classroom Action Research (CAR) was conducted at SMK Negeri 1 Bangkinang, Kampar District. The research applies both quantitative and qualitative approaches using descriptive analytic methods. Data collection involved assessment tests using rubrics, observations, and interviews. The focus was on Enhancing English Speaking Skills through the Project Based Learning Model in Descriptive Monologue Material on Kampar Tourism Places. The lack of students' English speaking skills is attributed to insufficient practice and a prevalent sense of embarrassment, especially during the learning process. Improvement in students' English speaking skills was assessed through videos narrating tourist spots in Kampar District. The research subjects comprised 35 students from XI Computer and Network Engineering 1 class divided into 9 groups. They were tasked to narrate tourist spots in Kampar District per group. Subsequently, students were interviewed to identify issues and challenges encountered. Findings indicate that the Project Based Learning Model contributed to enhancing English speaking skills through video creation about Kampar tourism places. Initially, prior to the research, only 26% of students met the standard in skill assessments. This increased to 69% in cycle I and reached 86% in cycle II, representing a 60% improvement from the beginning to the second cycle, as found in this research. Another improvement observed was the increased willingness of students to speak in English, as each student was required to speak in every group video. Observations revealed that using the Project Based Learning Model in video creation enhanced creativity, analytical, logical, and critical problem-solving skills, as well as fostering a sense of responsibility among students.