THE ROLE OF CLUSTERING TECHNIQUE IN IMPROVING DESCRIPTIVE TEXT WRITING ABILITY FOR EIGHTH GRADE STUDENTS OF SMP NEGERI 2 SINTANG

Lambertha Leli Hakikiyani. 2025, The Role of Clustering Technique in Improving Descriptive Text Writing Ability for Eighth Grade Students of SMP Negeri 2 Sintang. Thesis, English Language Education Study Program, STKIP Persada Khatulistiwa Sintang. Advisor I: Yokie Prasetya Dharma, M.Pd. B.I., Advisor II: Tuti, M.Pd.

Keywords: clustering technique, descriptive text, writing ability

The problem of this research was that students need improvement in writing ability and participation. The purpose of this research was to find out the students’ improvement in participation and writing descriptive text through the clustering technique. The subject of this study was the students of the eighth grade at SMP Negeri 2 Sintang. This research used a Classroom Action Research design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, measurement, and documentation, using instruments such as observation checklists, field notes, interview guidelines, student tests, and video recordings. The findings showed improvements in both students’ writing ability and participation. The average writing score improved from 71.14 in Cycle I to 82.42 in Cycle II, while the observation checklist score improved from 65% to 88.3%. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the clustering technique was successful in improving students’ ability and participation in writing descriptive texts. Therefore, the clustering technique can be used as an effective learning strategy and is recommended for English teachers to improve students’ writing ability and participation in writing activities.