Speech Writing Skills and the Factors Influencing Them Among 8th-Grade Students at SMP Negeri 1 Tilamuta

Abstract

The problem underlying this research is the persistent difficulties students face in writing speeches, such as a lack of ability to develop ideas, low vocabulary mastery, and a lack of understanding of the structure and linguistic rules of speeches. Furthermore, conventional learning and low interest in reading also impact students’ writing skills. This study aims to describe the speech writing skills of eighth-grade students at SMP Negeri 1 Tilamuta, identify factors influencing these skills, and describe the solutions teachers have implemented to address these challenges. The method used is descriptive with a qualitative approach. Data were obtained through documentation, reading techniques, and interviews. The data sources were students’ speeches and interviews with teachers and students. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that students’ speech writing skills generally range from good to excellent, based on aspects such as speech outline, introduction, content, and conclusion development, and spelling. Factors influencing these skills include interest and motivation to learn, vocabulary mastery, understanding of text structure, ability to develop ideas, learning methods, and the learning environment. The conclusion of this study is that the speech writing skills of eighth-grade students at SMP Negeri 1 Tilamuta are quite good, but still require ongoing development through varied learning methods and systematic writing practice.