Development of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) through Learning Fiction Story Texts: An Empirical Study in Indonesia

This study aims to analyze students' Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) in fictional story text materials. HOTS is considered essential in developing students who are critical, creative, and capable of solving problems. The research method used is a descriptive analysis approach. Data is collected through HOTS tests designed to measure students' higher-order thinking abilities, covering a wide range of situations and questions that demand analytical thinking, problem-solving, and assessment. The research participants consisted of grade VIII students of SMP N 1 Jaten. The results of the analysis showed significant variation in student HOTS between individuals. Some students are able to express HOTS in a variety of contexts, while others have more limited HOTS. These findings point to the need for greater attention to the development of students' HOTS through appropriate learning approaches and supportive learning environments. The implication of this research is the importance of integrating HOTS into the curriculum and learning models that facilitate students' higher-order thinking. In addition, continuous efforts are needed to improve teachers' understanding and skills in developing students' HOTS. Further research is needed to explore the factors that affect students' HOTS in depth, as well as to identify effective learning models in improving HOTS.