STUDENTS' DIFFICULTIES IN SPEAKING OF DESCRIPTIVE TEXT AT GRADE X OF SMA N 1 AIR JOMAN IN 2024/2025 ACADEMIC YEAR

Abstract

Speaking is one of the essential skills in English language learning, especially at the senior high school level. It serves as the main tool for expressing ideas, opinions, and information. However, many students still struggle to speak English fluently and confidently, particularly when dealing with descriptive texts. This study aims to explore the speaking difficulties experienced by tenth-grade students at SMA Negeri 1 Air Joman in delivering descriptive texts orally and to identify the internal and external factors that contribute to those difficulties. A qualitative research approach with a case study design was employed. The data were collected through classroom observations, interviews with students and the English teacher, and questionnaires. The findings revealed that the students faced several challenges, including limited vocabulary, pronunciation problems, low confidence, and anxiety about making mistakes. Internally, students often felt nervous, afraid of being laughed at, or were unfamiliar with using English in daily communication. Externally, they lacked sufficient practice and were exposed to teaching methods that emphasized writing over speaking. These findings indicate the importance of creating a supportive classroom atmosphere and designing communicative learning activities that encourage students to speak more actively. Teachers are also encouraged to use various strategies to help reduce students’ anxiety and to foster their speaking ability in a more engaging way. The study provides insight into the actual speaking barriers faced by students and offers recommendations for improving speaking instruction in the classroom.