Penerapan Model Problem Based Learning (PBL) dalam Meningkatkan Kemampuan Menulis Surat Resmi dan Pribadi Siswa Kelas VII B SMP Negeri 2 Banjarmasin

This study aims to describe the implementation of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model in teaching personal and official letter writing, and to examine its impact on improving the writing skills of Grade VII B students at SMP Negeri 2 Banjarmasin. The study is motivated by students’ difficulties in distinguishing the structure and language style of personal and official letters, as well as their low engagement in the learning process. This research employed a descriptive quantitative approach using a One Group Pretest-Posttest design. The instruments included writing tests (pre-test and post-test) and observation sheets to assess students’ activities and attitudes. The results indicate that PBL positively influences students' writing abilities. This is evidenced by a significant increase in the average post-test scores compared to the pre-test, along with improvements in critical thinking, collaboration, and independence. Students also demonstrated better understanding of the structural and linguistic features of both types of letters. Thus, the PBL model is recommended as an effective instructional strategy to enhance the quality of writing instruction, particularly within the framework of the Kurikulum Merdeka.