Writing is inherently challenging due to its complex process, especially when done in a foreign language. However, its practical purpose makes it important to learn. Kurikulum Merdeka, Indonesia’s latest curriculum, addresses this by including English writing in the 7th-grade curriculum, focusing on descriptive text. Previous studies show that the PWIM is more effective than lecture-based learning in enhancing descriptive writing ability. However, its effect compared to other strategies remains underexplored. This research aims to study whether or not there is a difference between the use of the PWIM and the Guided Question Strategy on 7th-grade students' descriptive writing ability. Using a quasi-experimental design, the sample were taken through purposive sampling from two intact class consisting of 66 students at SMPN 1 Banjarmasin. Data from pre-test and post-test analyzed using an independent samples t-test through SPSS 25. Results showed a significant difference (sig = 0.02), suggesting that there is a difference between the PWIM and the Guided Question Strategy on 7th-grade students' descriptive writing ability at SMPN 1 Banjarmasin. However, attention to grammar and mechanics is recommended to enhance its effectiveness further.

Keywords: descriptive writing, guided question strategy, pwim