The Use of Doten (Domino Tenses) Media to Increase Students’ Mastery in Present Tenses at 7TH Grade

The aim of this research is to improve students' understanding and proficiency in writing in the simple present tense using the domino tenses learning media (DOTEN) in class VII.A at SMPN 1 Langsa. This study is a Classroom Action Research (CAR) consisting of two cycles, each cycle having two meetings. The research subjects are the students of class VII.A at SMPN 1 Langsa, totaling 25 students (15 females and 10 males). Data collection techniques include observation, document analysis, and tests. Observations were conducted during the teaching and learning process, and tests were administered after the domino tenses media activity. The research steps followed Jean McNiff's approach using a CAR design, which includes planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The findings of this study reveal that the use of domino tenses (DOTEN) media enhances students' mastery of the simple present tense in class VII.A. The minimum mastery criterion (KKM) set for the study is 72. The research results indicate an improvement in students' understanding of the simple present tense. In cycle I, the average score of students was 50.96, and it increased to 73.3 in cycle II. In cycle II, students become more confident in writing sentences in the simple present tense. Students feel enjoy and excitement, which increase their motivation and enthusiasm. It can be seen through their constant smiles, laughter, sparkling eyes, and beaming faces when playing the game of dominoes. As their interest grows, they develop a positive attitude towards learning the simple present tense. So, it can be concluded that the use of domino tenses media is able to improve students' understanding of the simple present tense.