Ice Breaking to Enhance Learning Motivation of 5th-Grade Students at MI Unggulan Sumbermulya

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the implementation of ice breaking techniques to enhance the learning motivation of fifth-grade students at MI Unggulan Sumbermulya, Haurgeulis. Although not the primary goal of learning, ice breaking serves as a crucial support in creating an engaging and enjoyable classroom atmosphere. This research employs a qualitative approach, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. Data validity was ensured using source, method, and researcher triangulation, while analysis involved data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing.

The findings indicate that: (1) Planning of ice breaking was conducted through discussions between the principal and the fifth-grade teacher, considering technique suitability and stages of the Independent Curriculum learning modules. (2) Implementation was dominated by play and clapping techniques, applied both planned and spontaneously to condition students and maintain engagement. (3) Evaluation showed that ice breaking effectively increased enthusiasm, reduced boredom, and developed student motivation. However, constraints such as limited facilities, lack of teacher references, and reduced lesson hours remained challenges. Thus, despite these obstacles, the application of ice breaking proved to have a positive impact on student learning motivation, though improvements in facilities and more varied methods are needed.