CIRC Learning Model Proven to Improve Elementary School Students' Reading Skills

Natalia Sihombing S.Pd Sabtu, Agustus 08, 2026
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FORMOSA NEWS

A research team from the State University of Makassar consisting of Nur Ilmi, Anugrah Meliyani, and Usman has completed research on the application of the Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC) learning model to improve students' reading processes and skills. Conducted during the 2025/2026 academic year, this classroom action research holds significant importance in finding concrete solutions to the low basic literacy skills of students in schools.

The main challenge in primary education today often stems from conventional teaching methods that remain one-way and the lack of learning variations, which triggers children's low interest in reading. Based on initial findings in Grade 5 at UPTD SD Negeri 45 Parepare, students' learning completeness rate in reading comprehension previously was very concerning, reaching only 33.33%, where the majority of students struggled to comprehend the content of the text as a whole.

To address this issue, the study implemented a collaborative learning method that integrates reading and writing activities in a unified approach. Through a Classroom Action Research (CAR) approach involving one teacher and 21 students, the learning activities were divided into two main cycles covering planning, action implementation, observation, and periodic reflection.

Here are the key findings from the implementation of this learning model:

  • The classroom atmosphere, which was initially passive and monotonous, was successfully transformed into a more active, enthusiastic, and student-centered learning environment.
  • Students were trained to work together in heterogeneous groups to cross-correct readings, discuss predictions of text content, and find main ideas collaboratively.
  • The percentage of student learning completeness in reading comprehension surged significantly from 71.42% in the first cycle to 80.95% in the second cycle, with the average class score reaching 76.52.

This success brings major implications for the world of education, particularly in strengthening the quality of literacy instruction at the elementary school level. According to the researchers from the State University of Makassar, the use of the CIRC model proved effective in facilitating students' social needs, fostering a sense of responsibility, and training critical thinking skills to systematically sort information. This approach can serve as a valuable reference for educators to create a more interactive and enjoyable classroom atmosphere.

Author Profiles

  • Nur Ilmi – Researcher and academic in the field of elementary education from the State University of Makassar.
  • Anugrah Meliyani – Researcher and academic in the field of elementary education from the State University of Makassar.
  • Usman – Researcher and academic in the field of education from the State University of Makassar.

Research Sources

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