EXPLORING STUDENTS’ ABILITY TO WRITE PERSONAL DIARIES FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF RECOUNT TEXT STRUCTURE AT SMPN 17 PONTIANAK

Abstract

MASAYU. Exploring Students’ Ability to Write Personal Diaries from the Perspective of Recount Text Structure at SMPN 17 Pontianak: Tadris English Study Program. Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training. State Institute for Islamic Studies of Pontianak (IAIN Pontianak). 2025. This study aims to explore students’ ability to write personal diaries from the perspective of recount text structure and to investigate students’ perceptions of diary writing as a writing activity. This research was conducted at SMPN 17 Pontianak using a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design. The data were collected through students’ personal diary entries and semi-structured interviews. The students’ diary writings were analyzed to identify the application of recount text elements, including orientation, series of events, and reorientation. Meanwhile, the interviews were conducted to obtain in-depth information regarding students’ experiences, perceptions, and difficulties in writing personal diaries. The findings show that students’ ability to organize ideas, apply recount text structure, and use appropriate language features varies. While some students can express personal experiences coherently, others still face difficulties in developing ideas and completing the recount text structure. In addition, diary writing helps students’ confidence and engagement in writing by providing a relaxed and informal context.