5Rs to enhance paraphrasing skill for academic excellence

Recently, the demands on multi-text reading comprehension and writing skills become increasingly challenging. Lessons on information processing skills need to be multiplied, especially paraphrasing skills. This innovation aims to ensure that students adapt strategies for paraphrasing effectively to avoid the risk of plagiarism. Therefore, we have designed a learning unit that provides students with simple paraphrasing tasks using Bloom's taxonomy to plan and deliver instruction according to student needs. This innovation is proven effective when tested with 24 final-semester students applying paraphrasing skills. Using a Learning Management System familiar to students and lecturers, lessons on paraphrasing, especially in overcoming difficulties like the lack of English proficiency, poor reading skills, the lack of vocabulary, and concerns about documentation, were introduced. Students adapted the five elements of paraphrasing (5R), reading, rewording, rearranging, realising, and revising. By understanding the basics of paraphrasing and how to do it correctly, students can improve their paraphrasing skills and become better English academic writers. This planned learning unit not only helps students master paraphrasing techniques but also increases their confidence in academic writing. Students are encouraged to apply the skills learned in a relevant context to make the learning process more meaningful and effective. Therefore, this innovation offers a practical solution to the challenges in teaching and learning academic writing, especially in higher education contexts.