<![CDATA[Learning the Indonesian language is an essential aspect of elementary education. However, unlike other schools, a significant proportion of first-grade students at SDN 2 Dompyongan struggle with basic reading skills. This research aims to enhance the early reading abilities of first-grade students at SDN 2 Dompyongan, Jogonalan Subdistrict, Klaten Regency, through the use of sandpaper as a learning medium. This study employed a Classroom Action Research (CAR) methodology, conducted in two cycles. Each cycle consisted of four stages: planning, implementation, evaluation, and reflection. The research was carried out at SDN 2 Dompyongan, targeting a population of 18 first-grade students. The goal for this study was to achieve an average early reading score of 80. Data collection methods included observation, experimentation, and documentation. The data analysis employed mean scores and percentages to measure the effectiveness of the intervention. The findings revealed that the use of sandpaper significantly improved early reading skills among the students. In Cycle I, out of the 18 students who participated, 6 students (33%) achieved the minimum competency, while 12 students (67%) did not. The average score for Cycle I was 61.1. In Cycle II, there was a marked improvement: 16 students (89%) met the competency standard, while only 2 students (11%) did not. The average score for Cycle II rose to 88.9. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the use of sandpaper is an effective medium for improving early reading skills among first-grade students at SDN 2 Dompyongan. Consequently, this medium can be recommended as an alternative approach for early literacy education in primary schools.]]>
