Use of Open-Ended Student Worksheet to Improve Mathematics Communication Skills in Algebra

Abstract

Communication is the foundation of every learning activity. Mathematical communication is a skill to represent ideas in mathematical language so that it is understood by others who are used in problem-solving activities. This study aims to improve mathematical communication skills by using open-ended student worksheets in algebra. The research sample involved 6 junior high schools in Purworejo Regency, Indonesia which is divided into 2 groups, the experimental group consists of 91 students and the control group consists of 96 students. The study design used a randomized static group comparison design. The research instrument used 5 item essay tests that contained non-routine problems. The data analysis technique used an independent sample T-test. The results showed that the communication skills of students who were subjected to learning using open-ended student worksheets were better than the communication skills of students who were subjected to learning using student worksheets that are commonly used by teachers. These results provide an important impact that teachers should always integrate the presentation of non-routine problems in the form of worksheets as an integral part of mathematics learning.