Investigating Students' Problems in Composing Recount Text of Eight Grade Students at SMPN 8 Tarakan
The study aimed to identify the problems faced by students in writing a recount text in English and the factors influencing these problems. The research method used in this study was qualitative, with the subjects being eight-grade students of SMPN 8 Tarakan. The sample was determined using purposive sampling, consisting of 29 students. Data collection techniques included tests and interviews, with the research instruments being a writing test and an interview script. The results of the study showed that there were several aspects of writing, namely Organization with an average score of 14.34, Vocabulary with an average score of 12.21 (categorized as Good to Average), Content with an average score of 20.79, Grammar with an average score of 15.38, and Mechanics with an average score of 3.41 (categorized as Fair to Poor). The students’ problems in writing recount texts were influenced by various factors, including a lack of understanding of recount text material, limited vocabulary, low self-confidence, feelings of same, and the influence of the mother tongue. External factors include teaching styles, an unsupportive environment, and classroom situations.