Upaya Peningkatan Motivasi Belajar Bahasa Inggris di Sekolah Dasar

Abstract

This study aims to enhance elementary school students’ motivation to learn English and to identify the factors contributing to their low motivation. The research is grounded in the need to prepare students for the global era, in which English proficiency is an essential skill from an early age. The study employs a Classroom Action Research (CAR) method using the Kemmis and McTaggart model, consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection stages. Data were collected through observations, learning outcome evaluations, and interviews with English teachers. The findings reveal that students’ low motivation is influenced by perceptions that English is difficult, the lack of engaging teaching methods, limited learning facilities, and students’ weak willingness to learn. The implemented actions—such as using songs, educational games, teaching aids, role-play activities, and interactive communication—significantly increased students’ activeness and motivation. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of introducing English at the elementary level, as ages 6–13 represent a critical period for language development. With appropriate external motivation and strong teacher support, English learning becomes more effective, enjoyable, and meaningful. This study recommends that English instruction continue to be implemented in elementary schools through creative teaching methods and sufficient learning facilities