Student Progress Tracing of Arabic Learning: A Qualitative Investigation of Speaking Skills Formative Evaluation in Islamic Elementary School

Abstract

Formative evaluation of Arabic language proficiency plays a crucial role in identifying students' progress in the learning process, particularly in speaking skills or maharatul kalam. The aim of this study is to explore the implementation of formative evaluation on Arabic speaking skills in the third-grade class of SDIT Harapan Bunda Manado. The research adopts a qualitative approach with data collected through interviews with Arabic language teachers and observations in three different classes. The findings indicate that the types of speaking skills tests implemented in this school align with the principles of Arabic language teaching for beginners. The formative evaluation method of maharatul kalam includes reading texts aloud and identifying vocabulary words presented by the teacher. This evaluation is conducted formatively throughout the learning process. Both evaluation methods aim to measure students' reading, pronunciation, and vocabulary mastery as a foundation for developing more complex Arabic language skills in subsequent levels. Interactive evaluation, utilizing varied technologies and approaches, enables teachers to provide constructive feedback and customize learning according to individual student needs.