Chapter 1 introduction

C. Variable
A variable is a construct or a characteristic that can take on different 
values or scores (Ary et al, 2002:34). Variable can be classified in several ways. 
The most important classification is on the basis of their use within the research 
under consideration when they are classified as independent and dependent 
variables (Ary et al, 1985: 30). 
Independent variables (X) is variable that consequence of or upon 
atecendent variables. One independent variable must be the treatment variable. 
One or more group receive the experimental manipulation or treatment. In this 
study the independent variable was the use finger puppets as media in teaching 
speaking. 
Dependent variable (Y) is the response or the criterion variable that is 
presumed to be caused by or influenced by the independent treatment conditions 
and any other independent variables. In this study the dependent variable was the 
students’ achievement of speaking. 
D. Data and Source of Data
Data is information unit recorded which can be distinguished with other 
data, can be analyzed and relevant with certain problem (Tanzeh, 2011:79). 
According to Arikunto (2010:173) data are a whole facts and numbers that can be 
used as material for arranging information. The data are very significant in the 
research. 
The data in this research belonged to quantitative data. In this study the 

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data were taken from the students’ scores of the first grade students at MTs Sultan 
Agung Jabalsari Tulungagung from speaking test (pre-test and post-test). Those 
data were used to know the student’s achievement in speaking before and after 
being taught by using finger puppets as media. 
According to Arikunto (2010:172) data source is subject from where the 
data are gotten. 
Primary data is the data obtained directly from the subject of 
research by using measurement tool or data retrieval tool directly on the subject as 
a source of information is sought ( Aswar, 2010:91).
The source of data in this 
research belonged to
primary data source. This data source was the students of 
VII-A class of Mts Sultan Agung Jabalsari Tulungagung.