Abstract

Paragraph writing challenges Thai students due to large classes, varied proficiency, limited courses, and insufficient practice, leading to issues with grammar, vocabulary, and organization, which affect clarity and cause anxiety that limits creativity. This action research identified strategies for improvement, showing that integrating ChatGPT as a revision tool significantly enhanced structuring, grammar, and vocabulary, fostering independent revision. The findings suggest that thoughtful technology integration can complement traditional teaching, support student growth, and create a more supportive learning environment 

Abstract

This exploratory action research aimed to enhance paragraph writing skills and motivation among ninth-grade EFL students at Nakhonsawan School. The study addressed key challenges, including limited engagement in writing, vocabulary gaps, weak sentence structures, and a lack of motivation. Using the Exploratory Action Research (EAR) approach, data were collected through paragraph writing tasks, focus group discussions, and questionnaires. Findings revealed frequent errors in transition word usage, unclear topic sentences, and insufficient supporting details. Emotional responses indicated anxiety, stress, and low confidence in writing tasks.

To address these issues, a four-week remedial writing module, “Transition Words Mastery,” was implemented. The intervention included self-study, guided writing, peer interaction, and teacher feedback. Results showed improved use of transition words, better paragraph coherence, and increased student motivation. The study highlights the importance of tailored instructional strategies and collaborative learning in improving EFL students’ paragraph writing skills and fostering sustained motivation.