This study aims to identify students' conceptual understanding of sound wave material through the Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) model at MAN 3 Sleman Yogyakarta—this quantitative research with descriptive analysis involved 20 students as respondents. Data were collected through a conceptual understanding test covering subtopics of sound waves such as definitions, properties, string sound sources, organ pipe sound sources, resonance, the Doppler effect, wave interference, intensity, and sound intensity level. The results showed that students' conceptual understanding of sound waves was very high, with an average correct answer percentage of 87.5%. The resonance and wave interference subtopics achieved the % correct answer percentage of 100%. In comparison, the definition of sound waves had the lowest correct answer percentage of 60%, falling into the "sufficient" understanding category. The high resonance and wave interference achievement was due to practical methods using everyday tools and materials, helping students understand these concepts in a real-world context. In conclusion, the CTL model effectively enhances students' understanding of physics concepts. It is recommended that the CTL model continues to be applied in physics and other subject areas to improve students' conceptual understanding.
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