From Draft to Masterpiece: Using AI Writing Tools to Elevate form 6 ESL Essay Writing

Abstract

Many Malaysian Form 6 ESL students struggle to achieve the MUET Writing Paper standards, especially in linguistic correctness, lexical range, and grammatical control. Addressing this issue, the current study looked into the efficacy of incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) writing tools to improve students' writing skills. The study, which was based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Constructivist learning theory, looked at how AI-supported writing instruction helps learners engage and develop knowledge. A quantitative quasi-experimental approach was used with 16 Lower Six ESL pupils at a Malaysian secondary school. Over the course of a six-week intervention, students conducted guided MUET-style writing activities with AI writing tools. Pre- and post-test writings were graded using an analytical rubric that corresponded to MUET descriptors for vocabulary, grammar, and mechanics. Performance differences were measured using descriptive and inferential techniques. The findings demonstrated considerable improvements in all writing components, with vocabulary showing the biggest increase, followed by grammar and mechanics. These findings show that AI systems may efficiently scaffold linguistic accuracy and lexical development using instant feedback and iterative revision. The study emphasizes the pedagogical potential of AI-assisted instruction in improving MUET-oriented writing performance and advocates for its incorporation into post-secondary ESL curriculum.