Improving Essay-Writing Skills in Pendidikan Moral
SM St Michael, Penampang
By Audrey Cherry Insing
Background
- Rural school with 920 students and 64 teachers. Established in 1890; one of the oldest schools in Sabah.
- In the target class (Form 2 Amanah), students struggle in essay-writing for Pendidikan Moral.
The Challenge
- 80% (24/30) of Form 2 Amanah students scored below 8 marks in Final Exam (UASA 2024) Pendidikan Moral essay questions.
- Teacher had low score in Differentiated Instruction (score: 1.2).
The Solution: Mentor Muda Programme
- Peer mentoring model where high-performing students (mentors) guide peers (mentees) to improve essay-writing skills.
- Use Differentiated Instruction and 5E Lesson Plan to build confidence and mastery.
- Goal: At least 80% of students score ≥8 marks in essay questions by June 2025.
Key Activities
- “Mentor Muda” peer mentoring before First Term Exam 2025, led by students with 7–10 marks in essays. Mentor-to-mentee ratio: 1:6 .
- Teacher provides guidance and scaffolding for mentors during group discussions.
- Active group work and interactive writing tasks using 5E approach.
Impact So Far
- Increase in number of student mentors from 6 to 8 (133% of target).
- 54% (14/26) of mentees reached ≥8 marks in essays by First Term Exam 2025 (target: 80%).
- 100% of students reported higher confidence and skills in answering essay questions.
- Teacher and student Differentiated Instruction practice scores improved.
Sustainability & Next Steps
- Continue Mentor Muda Programme until end of school year.
- Organise “Best Mentor Muda” competitions twice before November to motivate participation.
- Expand pool of mentors and mentees to sustain improvement cycle.
- Maintain differentiated strategies in all Pendidikan Moral lessons to reinforce skills.
Contact:
Audrey Cherry Insing: ri3ver88@yahoo.com
Building Moral essay writing and student leadership skills in the classroom and beyond.