Writing in the Second Language: Support and Help Needed by the Low Achievers

Abstract Writing is a basic skill required to be mastered by the students in Malaysian English language curriculum. However, most of the low proficiency students are still struggling to write. This study aims to investigate low achievers’ views towards writing skills in English, identify their writing difficulties as well as their needs to master the skills. These low achievers have positive perceptions towards writing skills but need help and support especially from the teachers. Understanding their views, identifying their problems, support and help needed, would benefit ESL teachers in planning their approaches and would help the low achievers develop more confidence writing in English.