Students' mathematical representation ability in Learning fractions through a concrete-representational-abstract approach with a joyful learning nuance

Authors

  • Fuad Nasir Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon, Indonesia Author
  • Gunawan Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto,, Indonesia Author
  • Shanti Nurhidayah Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon, Indonesia Author
  • Salsabila Anindiyah Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon, Indonesia Author
  • Yudistira Indra Prahasta Putra Elwanda Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon, Indonesia Author
  • Setiyani Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon, Indonesia Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6680-789X (unauthenticated)
  • Rahmad Khodari Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon, Indonesia Author
  • Mohammad Dadan Sundawan Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia Author
  • Laelasari Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33578/jpfkip.v14i5.p643-658

Keywords:

Concrete-Representational-Abstract, Fractions, Joyful Learning, Mathematical Representation

Abstract

Mathematical representation ability is crucial in understanding fraction concepts, especially for elementary school students still in the concrete cognitive development stage. This study aims to describe the mathematical representation abilities of fourth-grade students in learning fractions through the Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) approach with a joyful learning atmosphere. This approach was implemented through educational games such as Run Speech Fraction, Jump and Draw Fraction, and Walk Fast Fraction. The study employed a descriptive qualitative method, involving three fourth-grade students from an elementary school in Cirebon, each representing a high, medium, and low ability level. Data were collected through written tests and in-depth interviews, and analysed using the Miles and Huberman model. The results indicate that when delivered in an engaging and enjoyable atmosphere, the CRA approach effectively supports the gradual development of verbal, visual, and symbolic representations. High-ability students demonstrated consistency across all three forms of representation; medium-ability students showed basic understanding but still required guidance; low-ability students faced difficulties yet remained enthusiastic throughout the learning process. This study contributes to developing instructional strategies that promote gradual conceptual understanding, foster enjoyable learning experiences, and encourage active student engagement in mathematics.

Author Biographies

  • Shanti Nurhidayah, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon

    Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar

  • Salsabila Anindiyah, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon

    Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar

  • Yudistira Indra Prahasta Putra Elwanda, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon

    Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar

  • Rahmad Khodari, Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Cirebon

    Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar

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Published

2025-10-11

Issue

Section

Original research

How to Cite

Students’ mathematical representation ability in Learning fractions through a concrete-representational-abstract approach with a joyful learning nuance. (2025). Primary: Jurnal Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar, 14(5), 643-658. https://doi.org/10.33578/jpfkip.v14i5.p643-658