Exploring the Influence of Extensive Instagram Use on English Writing Skills among Secondary School Students

The pervasive use of Instagram among adolescents raises important questions about its impact on formal writing proficiency. This study investigates how extensive Instagram use influences English writing skills—specifically vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and sentence structure—among secondary school students in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. Addressing a gap in local research, the study employed a quantitative descriptive survey design involving 35 randomly selected students. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and supported by document analysis of students’ academic writing. Findings reveal a dual effect. Positively, Instagram use was associated with improved vocabulary and increased interest in language learning, as students encountered diverse content and expressions. However, negative effects included declining sentence structure proficiency and increased use of informal grammar and spelling conventions in academic writing. The high variability in responses suggests that Instagram’s influence depends on individual usage patterns and content engagement. While Instagram fosters creativity and informal language acquisition, it can compromise students’ grasp of formal writing norms. The study concludes that educators should design interventions that reinforce academic writing conventions while leveraging the platform’s creative potential. This balanced approach can help mitigate risks and enhance language learning outcomes in the digital age.