The Effectiveness of Mind Maps in Improving Malay Writing Skills as A Second Language

Abstract

Mastering essay writing skills in Malay as a second language among national students is still challenging. This study aims to identify the effectiveness of mind-mapping activities in improving writing skills in essays among students, who treat the Malay language as their second language. The study uses a quasi-experimental model with a pre-test, and a post-test, in the experimental and controlled groups. There are 32 respondents in this study. Data was collected through the achievement of writing results before and after the intervention. The findings of the study show that the mind map approach is significantly positive in improving Malay essay writing skills among the respondents of the experimental group. However, the control group that used the conventional approach did not achieve a significant improvement. The findings of the study show that the mind map approach is significantly effective in helping students generate ideas, elaborate ideas, and write complete essays.