EFEKTIVITAS PENERAPAN MEDIA KARTU HURUF UNTUK MENINGKATKAN PEMAHAMAN PADA KEMAMPUAN DASAR MEMBACA PERMULAAN DI KELAS 1 SDN TARUMAJAYA SATU

Early reading skills are fundamental abilities that elementary school students must master, particularly first-graders. However, there are still students who struggle with recognizing letters, reading syllables, and understanding simple words. The purpose of this study is to explain the application of letter cards, assess early reading skills, and measure the effectiveness of this medium among first-grade students at SDN Tarumajaya 1. This study employs a descriptive qualitative method with first-grade students as the subjects. Data collection was conducted through interviews, observations, and documentation. The interview results indicated that students were still at the early stages of reading; they recognized only a few letters, struggled to distinguish similar letters, and were unable to form words from letters. Additionally, learning support at home was still insufficient. The research results indicate progress in reading following the use of letter card media. Before implementation, 66.7% of students were at the early stage and 33.3% at the intermediate stage (not yet proficient). After implementation, there was an improvement: 53.3% of students became proficient, 16.7% remained at the intermediate stage, and 30% were not yet proficient. Students also became more active, enthusiastic, and able to grasp the material more easily. Thus, the letter card media is effective in improving the early reading skills of first-grade students at SDN Tarumajaya 1. This media can also create an active and enjoyable learning atmosphere, build students’ self-confidence, and encourage their engagement throughout the learning process.