ANALYSIS OF FACTORS AFFECTING THE SPEAKING SKILLS OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Abstract

There are four language skills that students are expected to master, one of which is speaking skills. This study aims to describe the speaking ability of students in class and to identify the factors that influence it. The research employed a qualitative desciptive design, with data sources obtained from teachers and students. Data were collected through tests, interviews, and observations, and then analyzed through the stages of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results show that the majority of students have very good speaking skills, with 18 students (60%) categorized as “Very Good.” Eight students (26.67%) are in the “Good” category, one student (3.33%) in the “Fair” category, two students (6.67%) in the “Poor” category, and one student (3.33%) in the “Very Poor” category. Students’ speaking ability is influenced by both internal and external factors. Internal factors include motivation, interest, self-confidence, language proficiency, concentration, and cooperation. Meanwhile, external factors such as the learning environment, the use of the mother tongue at home, and family support also contribute significantly to the development of students’ speaking skills.