IMPLEMENTASI PROJECT-BASED LEARNING (PJBL) UNTUK MENGEMBANGKAN KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR KRITIS PADA MATA PELAJARAN IPAS KELAS 3 DI MI AL FITHRAH SURABAYA

Learning Natural and Social Sciences (IPAS) in Madrasah Ibtidaiyah requires the development
of critical thinking skills as part of 21st-century competencies. However, classroom practices at the lower
grade level are still dominated by teacher-centered and conventional approaches, which provide limited
opportunities for students to develop analytical and reflective thinking skills. This study aims to describe
the implementation of the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) model in improving students’ critical thinking
skills in IPAS learning for third-grade students at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah. This research employed a
qualitative approach with a descriptive research design. The research subjects were teachers and third
grade students at MI Al Fithrah. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation,
and analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing techniques. The results indicate
that the implementation of PjBL increases students’ active participation in the learning process,
encourages students to express opinions, and trains them to analyze contextual problems through project
activities. Nevertheless, several challenges were identified, including limited instructional time and
students’ level of independence in completing project tasks. The study concludes that Project-Based
Learning is an effective alternative instructional model for IPAS learning to foster critical thinking skills
among Madrasah Ibtidaiyah students.