Teacher’s Understanding of Student Characteristics and its Implementation in Social Sciences Learning at Junior High School 12 Semarang

The independent curriculum is a series designed to support the implementation of learning with a new paradigm that is centered on basic material and the development of students' abilities in accordance with their existing abilities. This research focuses on: (1) The understanding of class VIII social studies teachers in understanding the characteristics of students at SMPN 12 Semarang; (2) In planning learning characteristics of class VIII students at SMPN 12 Semarang; (3) Application of social science teaching which refers to the characteristics of class VIII students at SMPN 12 Semarang. This research was conducted using a qualitative approach, data collection process through observation, structured interviews and documentation. The research results show that: (1). the social studies teacher at junior high school 12 Semarang understunds the characteristics of students by using positive reinforcement to increase students' interest and motivation, especially in social studies learning, namely always giving praise and encouraging students to have good behavior; (2) Teachers at junior high school 12 Semarang have implemented a differentiated learning approach by understanding the diversity of student characteristics, such as learning styles and learning speed. Understanding these individual differences allows teachers to design learning that suits the needs and potential of each student. (3) Teachers can understand students, teachers form groups by adjusting based on interests to collaborate between teachers and students. Keywords: Characteristics and Social Studies