Thematic learning is a fundamental method in primary education that integrates various disciplines into a relevant and nuanced learning experience for students. This study focuses on analyzing literature related to the function of thematic learning in fostering critical thinking skills and creativity in elementary school students. The approach applied is a literature review, which involves examining 20 related research articles published between 2021 and 2025 from various accredited national and international journals. The review of results indicates that various progressive learning models within the thematic context, including Discovery Learning, Problem Based Learning, Project-Based Learning, and blended learning, consistently and significantly contribute to the improvement of critical thinking and creativity competencies in elementary school students. The effectiveness of implementing thematic learning is highly dependent on the quality of the learning design, the capabilities of educators as innovative facilitators, and the curriculum structure used. In the Merdeka Curriculum, integrated thematic learning provides greater opportunities to enhance complex thinking skills at the primary education level.
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