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Jurnal Pendidikan Sains

Abstract

This study aimed to describe students’ understanding of pathogenic microbes and compare descriptive comprehension profiles across Grades VII, VIII, and IX at SMP Alkhairaat 1 Palu. A quantitative descriptive approach was employed involving 49 students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using an essay test as the primary instrument, supported by semi-structured interviews and observations of the school environment. The essay test assessed three indicators: conceptual knowledge of pathogenic microbes, understanding of disease transmission mechanisms, and understanding of clean and healthy practices for preventing the transmission of pathogenic microbes. Test data were analyzed descriptively using mean percentage scores, while interview data were analyzed qualitatively and observation data were used as contextual information. The results showed variation across indicators and grade levels. Grade VIII obtained the highest mean percentage scores for all three indicators, with 82% for conceptual knowledge, 83% for understanding disease transmission mechanisms, and 80% for understanding preventive practices. Grade VII obtained 70%, 59%, and 64%, respectively, whereas Grade IX obtained 70%, 77%, and 75%. Interview findings indicated that students generally recognized that pathogenic microbes can cause disease and that transmission can be associated with unhygienic conditions; however, some students had difficulty explaining these concepts scientifically and relating their knowledge consistently to clean and healthy practices. Given the descriptive design and purposive sampling, the differences among grade levels should be interpreted as patterns within the participating classes rather than as generalizable grade-level differences. The findings highlight the potential value of contextual and interactive learning that connects concepts of pathogenic microbes with students’ everyday school experiences.

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