Concept-Based Approach in Writing Instruction: The Effect of Concept Model

Abstract

This paper reports the effect of concept model as mediation in writing instruction. Concept in this study refers to the generalizing language in an argumentative essay (e.g. thesis statement, topic sentence, wrap-up sentence and restatement of thesis) since such language constitutes the basic structure of an essay. Based on Ferreira and Lantolf (2008), a five-week experiment was performed, in which “movement from the abstract to the concrete” approach was used. The experiment procedure consisted of four steps: facing problems, producing concept models, revising concept models and applying concept models. But the control group experienced a traditional approach, “movement from the concrete to the abstract”. The results manifest the facilitating effect of concept model on knowledge internalization.