ANALISIS KEMAMPUAN PEMECAHAN MASALAH SISWA SMP PADA MATERI ALJABAR

Mathematical problem-solving ability is a fundamental competency that students must master in mathematics learning. However, a preliminary study involving eighth-grade students at SMP Negeri 7 Kerinci indicated that their problem-solving skills had not yet fully developed. This study aimed to analyze and describe the mathematical problem-solving abilities of eighth-grade students at SMP Negeri 7 Kerinci regarding algebraic topics, based on Polya’s four indicators: understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back. This was a qualitative descriptive study. The subjects consisted of 10 eighth-grade students selected purposively based on problem-solving test results: four high-ability students, four medium-ability students, and two students selected to support data triangulation. The research instrument was a problem-solving test covering Linear Equations with One Variable (PLSV), Systems of Linear Equations with Two Variables (SPLDV), algebraic operations, and algebraic modeling. Data collection techniques included written tests and semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was conducted in three stages—data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing—with data validity ensured through source triangulation. The results showed that high-ability students (scores ≥76) were able to meet all four of Polya’s indicators. Meanwhile, medium-ability students (scores 51–75) were able to meet three indicators understanding the problem, devising a plan, and carrying out the plan but were not yet able to optimally fulfill the "looking back" indicator.