The objective of this research is to improve speaking ability for grade 5 of SD Negeri (Public Elementary School) 04 Palur, Mojolaban, Sukoharjo in the academic year of 2015/2016 by using hand puppets media and role playing method. This research is a classroom action research. The research was carried out in three cycles. Each cycle consists of planning, action, observation, and reflection. The data were gathered by interview, observation, test, and documentation. The data were validated by data triangulation and method triangulation. This research used an interactive model of analysis. The steps of interactive analysis consist of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing or verification.The research concludes that the use of hand puppets through role playing can improve speaking ability in Grade 5 of SD Negeri 04, Palur, Mojolaban in the academic year of  2015/2016.

keywords: speaking ability, hand puppet, role playing