EDUCATING STUDENTS ON THE CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF LITTERING AT SD N 100050 PASAR MATANGGOR USING A GROUP DISCUSSION METHOD TO ENHANCE CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS

Abstract

Littering remains a fundamental behavioral issue frequently observed among elementary school students due to a lack of deep understanding regarding environmental impacts. This study aims to measure the improvement of critical thinking skills among fifth-grade students at SD N 100050 Pasar Matanggor through cause-and-effect education on littering using group discussion methods interspersed with ice-breaking activities. This research is a Classroom Action Research (CAR) involving fifth-grade students as subjects. Data were collected through participation observation sheets, critical thinking skills tests (pre-test and post-test), and student response questionnaires. The group discussion method was implemented to stimulate students in analyzing the qualitative relationship between human behavior (cause) and local environmental damage (effect). Ice-breaking sessions were incorporated during intervals to maintain focus, relieve fatigue, and sustain learning energy. The results indicated a significant increase in students' critical thinking skills, evidenced by their ability to independently identify problems, analyze long-term impacts, and formulate waste management solutions. Furthermore, the use of ice-breaking activities effectively enhanced active engagement and enthusiasm during discussions. Thus, the group discussion method combined with cause-and-effect education and ice-breaking is effective in sharpening critical thinking while fostering environmental awareness from an early age.