STUDENTS’DIFFICULTIES INWRITINGN RECOUNT TEXT ON 8th JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLAT SMP SWASTA IMELDAMEDAN

This study aims to analyze the difficulties faced by 8th-grade students at SMP
Swasta Imelda Medan in writing recount texts. Writing, particularly in a foreign
language, is considered a complex skill that requires mastery of multiple
components such as grammar, vocabulary, organization, and mechanics. Through
document analysis, classroom observation, and questionnaires, the study identifies
common challenges encountered by students when composing recount texts. Key
difficulties include improper use of tenses, limited vocabulary, challenges in
expressing ideas coherently, and lack of adherence to the recount text structure.
The findings suggest that most students struggle with constructing grammatically
correct sentences, particularly with the use of past tense verbs, which is essential
in recount writing. Moreover, many students have difficulty organizing their ideas
and presenting a clear narrative flow. The study concludes by recommending
tailored teaching strategies that emphasize grammar, vocabulary enhancement,
and practice in text organization to improve students' recount writing skills. These
insights may assist teachers in addressing students' writing challenges and help
students improve their writing competencies.