<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze students’ mathematical critical thinking skills through the implementation of Problem Based Learning (PBL) integrated with the STEM approach on the Pythagorean Theorem material. This research employed a descriptive quantitative method involving 20 eighth-grade students of SMP Negeri 2 Lubuk Pakam in the 2025/2026 academic year. Data were collected through mathematical critical thinking tests in the form of pretest and posttest based on the indicators of interpretation, analysis, evaluation, inference, explanation, and self-regulation. Supporting data were obtained through observation and documentation during the learning process. The results showed that the implementation of Problem Based Learning (PBL) integrated with the STEM approach was able to improve students’ mathematical critical thinking skills. This was indicated by the increase in the students’ average score from 62.4 in the pretest to 90.75 in the posttest. Improvements occurred in all indicators of mathematical critical thinking skills, especially in analyzing problems, evaluating solutions, drawing conclusions, and explaining problem-solving processes systematically. PBL integrated with the STEM approach also encouraged students to be more active in solving contextual problems and connecting mathematical concepts to everyday life. Therefore, the implementation of Problem Based Learning (PBL) integrated with the STEM approach is effective in improving students’ mathematical critical thinking skills on the Pythagorean Theorem material.]]>
