Using model essays in conjunction with noticing as a feedback instrument in IELTS writing preparation

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effects of using IELTS model essays in conjunction with noticing as a feedback instrument on Vietnamese undergraduates’ IELTS Task 2 writing performance. To investigate this, a quasi-experimental design was undertaken. The control group used the course textbook and received traditional writing feedback (i.e. direct, indirect, and peer feedback), which they drew on while composing their second drafts. Conversely, the experimental group utilized IELTS model essays in conjunction with noticing as a feedback instrument to compose their second drafts. To compare each group’s writing gains, pretest and posttest writing samples were evaluated using the IELTS Task 2 rubric’s overall and four subscale band scores. The data were analyzed using inferential statistics (paired-samples t-test, independent-samples t-test). The results indicated that the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group in all areas. As prior research specific to using IELTS model essays in conjunction with noticing as a feedback instrument with IELTS Writing Task 2 in the Vietnamese postsecondary context is noticeably absent, this paper is offered as a starting point for future investigations and discussions. The paper also discusses the topic and results’ relevancy to the larger Asian context and poses suggestions for further study.