An Analysis of Students' Mathematical Problem-Solving Skills in Rational Numbers Through Polya's Problem-Solving Stages at MTs Negeri 1 Banda Aceh

This study aims to analyze students’ mathematical problem-solving abilities in rational number material based on Polya’s stages at MTs Negeri 1 Banda Aceh. This study employed a descriptive qualitative research design. The subjects consisted of six seventh-grade students selected through purposive sampling and categorized into high, moderate, and low ability levels based on the results of a problem-solving test. Data were collected through essay tests, interviews, and documentation, and then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model. Data validity was ensured through technique triangulation. The results showed that students with high ability were able to complete all stages of Polya’s problem- solving process. Students with moderate ability generally completed all stages but still made errors in their final answers due to a lack of accuracy. Meanwhile, students with low ability experienced difficulties in planning, carrying out the solution, and reviewing their results. It can be concluded that students’ mathematical problem-solving abilities differ across different levels of ability