Students^ Ability to Solve Mathematical Problems Through Polya Steps
Fitriani (a*), Iqbal (b), Tatang Herman (c), Siti Fatimah (c)

a) Mathematics Education, Institut Agama Islam Negeri Langsa, Jl. Meurandeh, Kota Langsa, Aceh, 24411, Indonesia
*fitriani[at]iainlangsa.ac.id
b) Mathematics Education, Madrasah Tsanawiyah Negeri 9 Aceh Timur, Aceh, 24440, Indonesia,
c) Mathematics Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setiabudi No.229, Bandung, 40154, Indonesia

Abstract

Students mathematical problem solving skills are still low, and students are not yet familiar with such problems. This research describes students ability to solve mathematical problems, especially geometry, based on Polya stages. The research design uses a qualitative approach with 40 students of Besitang State Junior High School students. Case studies become data analysis techniques then, data analysis is carried out by reducing, presenting, and verifying data. Finally, check the validity of the data by triangulating the data source. The results of the analysis obtained that students^ ability to understanding the problems and devising a plan was at intervals of 3 as much as 60% with good categories, carrying out the plan as many as 73% of categories is sufficient and looking back as much as 78% of categories are not good. It is recommended that advanced educators and researchers train students ability to solve mathematical problems, especially the stages developed by Polya. This ability is the second intelligence in mathematics after students have the first intelligence to understand mathematical concepts.

Keywords: Student Abilities, Problem Solving Skills, Mathematical Problems, Mathematical Problem-Solving Skills, Polya Steps

Topic: Mathematics Education