ABSTRACT
This study is designed to Investigate the Connection Between Creative Writing Skills And Academic Performance In English Education In Egor Local Government Of Edo State, Nigeria. Four (4) research questions were formulated.
The population of the study consists of five thousand two hundred and thirty (5,230) English and Literature secondary school students in Egor Local Government Area (Edo State Ministry of Education, Student Enrolment Record, 2023.The sample size that will be selected for this study is hundred (100) students of the total population, selected randomly using simple random sampling technique.
The findings from this study revealed that; creative writing contributes significantly to improved academic performance in English. Students reported that engaging in creative writing enhances their ability to analyze and interpret literature and helps them approach problem-solving tasks with more confidence. This finding is in agreement with Beaty (2004), who emphasizes that creative activities stimulate higher-order thinking, which is critical for academic success.
Specialized teacher training plays a crucial role in enhancing students' creative writing skills. The study reveals that teachers with specialized training in creative writing are more effective in improving students' writing abilities. The importance of professional development for teachers, particularly in creative writing was stressed in the study. The following recommendations are made: There should be a stronger emphasis on integrating creative writing activities into the English curriculum. Schools should incorporate more creative writing exercises, such as storytelling, poetry, and personal narratives, to stimulate students' imagination and improve their writing, critical thinking, and analytical skills, which are essential for their overall academic performance. There should be continuous professional development for English teachers, particularly in creative writing instruction. Teachers should receive regular training and workshops that focus on enhancing their ability to teach creative writing. This will equip them with innovative strategies and tools to effectively engage students in writing activities and support their academic growth. There should be increased investment in learning resources and technology to support creative writing activities. Schools should ensure that students have access to a variety of resources, including textbooks, digital tools, and online platforms, to enhance their writing skills. These resources will help foster a creative learning environment that allows students to express themselves freely and improve their English proficiency.
