Improving students’ mathematical problem-solving ability using differentiated instruction approach

Problem-solving abilities are very important in mathematics, not only for those who will study mathematics in the future but also for those who will apply it in other fields of study and in everyday life because in the process of learning and solving it, students can gain experience using knowledge and skills already possessed to be applied in solving non-routine problems. This study aims to analyze and describe students' mathematical problem-solving abilities through the application of the Differentiated Instruction approach. This research is quantitative research with a quasi-experimental method. This research was conducted in one of the Vocational High Schools in Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra, for grade 10 students consisting of two classes, namely the control class and the experimental class, where each class consisted of 24 students. The sampling technique with cluster random sampling was used to collect data. Data collection is done by giving a test on trigonometry material. Data analysis was performed using a two-way ANOVA test. The results of this study indicate that the increase in mathematical problem-solving abilities of students who receive learning using the Differentiated Instruction approach is better than students who receive direct learning.