Jurnal Review Pendidikan Dasar : Jurnal Kajian Pendidikan dan Hasil Penelitian
Vol. 12 No. 1 (2026): Vol. 12 No. 1 Februari 2026

Concrete-to-Abstract Transitions and Affective Factors in Fourth-Grade Mathematics: A Systematic Review of Pedagogical Challenges and Merdeka Curriculum

Setianingsih Setianingsih (State University of Malang)
Fitrika Asrofatul Arofah (State University of Malang)
Suyono Suyono (State University of Malang)
Riska Pristiani (State University of Malang)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Feb 2026

Abstract

Fourth grade represents a critical transition period in elementary mathematics education where students encounter increasingly abstract concepts requiring sophisticated pedagogical approaches. This systematic literature review synthesizes 32 empirical studies (2021-2025) examining concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) instructional sequences, affective dimensions, and Merdeka Curriculum implementation challenges in fourth-grade mathematics learning. Analysis reveals three primary findings: First, systematic CRA/CPA progressions significantly enhance conceptual understanding across fractions, geometry, and algebraic thinking, yet classroom implementation frequently exhibits problematic practices including premature abstraction or prolonged concrete manipulation. Second, mathematical self-efficacy, mathematics anxiety, and achievement demonstrate consistent bidirectional relationships, with fourth grade constituting a consequential period for mathematical identity formation. Third, Merdeka Curriculum's numeracy literacy emphasis confronts substantial implementation obstacles including conceptual misconceptions, inadequate professional development, resource limitations, structural constraints, and policy misalignments.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

PD

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

The Journal focus and scope: Research in the field of scientific concept of basic education includes mathematics, science, social studies, civics and Indonesian. ...