Abstract:
The purpose of this classroom action research was to investigate the effectiveness of
cooperative learning type Roundtable technique in improving students’ ability in
writing hortatory exposition text at SMAN 10 Pekanbaru. The participants of this
research were 38 students of grade XI who had poor to average level of English
proficiency. The data mainly gained from the writing test which was divided into pre-test and post-test. The findings indicated that Roundtable technique had a positive effect
on the students’ writing ability particularly in each components of writing. It can be
seen in the statistical analysis which showed that the mean score in the pre-test was
43,9, increased to 60,85 in post-test 1 and 76,37 in post-test 2. It was revealed that the
use of Roundtable technique statistically improved students’ writing ability. Moreover,
qualitative evidence showed that students within cooperative learning situation were
actually making meaning for themselves and others. This classroom situation helped the
researcher and the students conducted a creative, effective, and cooperative learning
process. Roundtable technique was highly effective with creative writing and enjoyable
brainstorming activities. This structure encourages responsibility for the group and
team building.