The low appreciation and understanding of students towards biodiversity, especially medicinal plants, pose challenges in biology education in Indonesia. Traditional teacher-centered methods emphasize memorization and lack a local cultural context. This study examines the effectiveness of the Jigsaw cooperative learning model based on ethnoscience in improving students’ appreciation and understanding of medicinal plant biodiversity. A quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group was used, involving grade X students of SMA Negeri 1 Rantau Utara. The experimental group used the Jigsaw model, while the control group followed conventional methods. Instruments included a Likert scale for appreciation and a multiple-choice test for understanding. Data analysis with SPSS 22.0 showed an average appreciation score of 67.03 and an understanding score of 87.66. The effectiveness test yielded a significance value of 0.000 (P < 0.005), indicating a significant improvement in the experimental group. The study concludes that the Jigsaw model enhances student engagement and appreciation of local knowledge, making it a relevant and contextual learning approach for strengthening students’ understanding of Indonesia’s natural and cultural heritage
                        
                        
                        
                        
                            
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