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Early reading skills are fundamental competencies that must be mastered by elementary school students, as they serve as the foundation for future academic success. However, conventional teacher-centered instruction often fails to maximize students’ active engagement in learning. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the Project Based Learning model assisted by mind mapping media in improving the early reading skills of second-grade elementary students. This research employed a quantitative approach with an experimental design. The participants were second-grade students who received instruction through the Project Based Learning model assisted by mind mapping media. Data were collected using reading skill tests administered before and after the treatment. The data were analyzed to identify differences in students’ reading abilities following the implementation of the learning model. The findings indicate that the implementation of Project Based Learning assisted by mind mapping media has a positive effect on students’ early reading skills. The model promotes active student participation, enhances critical and creative thinking skills, and facilitates comprehension through structured visual representation of concepts. Furthermore, the learning environment becomes more interactive and meaningful, increasing students’ motivation to engage in reading activities. Therefore, the Project Based Learning model assisted by mind mapping media is recommended as an alternative instructional strategy to improve early reading skills in elementary schools.

Education plays a vital role in shaping character and developing individual potential, with the ability to collaborate being crucial in this global era. This study focuses on the low level of student collaboration and suboptimal Aqidah Akhlak learning outcomes at MA Muhammadiyah 1 Ponorogo, caused by a lack of innovative learning methods. Therefore, this study aims to examine the application of the Project-Based Learning method as a solution to improve student collaboration and learning outcomes. This study aims to: (1) describe the application of the Project-Based Learning method in teaching Aqidah Akhlak in class XI of MA Muhammadiyah 1 Ponorogo, (2) determine the impact of the Project-Based Learning method on student collaboration and learning outcomes, and (3) determine student perceptions of the application of the Project-Based Learning method in teaching Aqidah Akhlak. This study used a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Data were collected through observation, interviews (with the principal, vice principal for curriculum, Aqidah Akhlak teacher, and class XI students), and documentation. The data analysis technique used was the Miles and Huberman model, which includes data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study show that: (1) the implementation of the Project Based Learning method is carried out through structured steps, encouraging active cooperation between teachers and students, with an emphasis on equal roles and responsibilities of each, (2) the Project Based Learning method has a positive impact on increasing collaboration, educational outcomes, and the development of students’ knowledge, attitudes, and skills as a whole, with changes in behavior that are seen in depth, (3) students have a positive view of the Project Based Learning method because it is considered more interesting, interactive, meaningful, and relevant to everyday life, which can be seen from increased motivation and active participation.