Improving Early Reading Skills through Local Wisdom-Based Storytelling Method with Letter Card Media

Abstract

This study aims to improve primary school students' beginning reading skills through the application of local wisdom-based storytelling methods with the help of letter card media. The research method used was Classroom Action Research (PTK) model Kemmis & McTaggart which was carried out in two cycles. The research subjects involved 18 grade II students. Data were collected through observation, interviews, tests, and documentation, then analyzed using quantitative and qualitative descriptive techniques. The results showed that the use of storytelling methods about local wisdom, such as the folktales of Keong Emas and Bawang Merah Bawang Putih, combined with letter card media, significantly improved students' beginning reading skills. The average student score increased from 67.2 in the pre- cycle to 76.7 in cycle I with a completeness rate of 77.78%, and then reached 84.77 in cycle II with a completeness rate of 88.89%. This increase shows that the combination of storytelling method and letter card media is effective in practicing letter recognition, word pronunciation, and understanding simple sentences. In addition to cognitive aspects, this approach also contributes to character building, strengthening moral values, and understanding local culture contained in folklore. Thus, this study confirms that the integration of local wisdom-based storytelling methods with letter card media is not only effective in improving early reading skills, but also relevant in building literacy that is contextual, meaningful and rooted in the nation's culture.