Improving students’ ability to write opinions using picture prompts and peer feedback: an action research study

Abstract

This study aimed to improve students' ability to write opinions using picture prompts and peer feedback. The research was developed with 37 university students in the B1 English module in semester II - 2021 to 2022. They did different activities to increase their writing skills during 16 online hours of class. An action research was conducted using quantitative and qualitative instruments to get the data; including a pre and post-test, a questionnaire, and rubrics. The results indicated that the participants improved their scores on content, style, and grammar criteria; therefore, the findings showed a positive development due to the intervention. The criteria of "Content" in the final draft had an increase in the mean of 1.92 points compared to the first draft of the opinion paragraphs. The "Style" criteria also increased in the mean; the difference is 1.75. Similarly, the "Grammar" criteria increased by 1.11. The questionnaire reassured the pedagogical innovation strategy, picture prompts and peer feedback, were helpful for writing opinion paragraphs according to the student’s opinions. The implications of this study serve as a reference for educators involved in the field of EFL education who wish to improve their teaching practices and engage students in writing activities. KEYWORDS: PEER FEEDBACK, PICTURE PROMPT, OPINION PARAGRAPH, WRITING.