Two groups of freshman students participated in the experiment. They were enrolled in their first ESL writing course. Before instruction, both groups were pre-tested. They wrote an essay. T-test results showed significant differences between both groups in writing ability. The experimental group made too many errors and had many writing problems. Both groups covered the same inclass material, assignments and assessment. In addition, the experimental group used a Blackboard online course from home. Experimental students posted their threads, wrote short paragraphs and posted stories and poems. They located information in sites like "Yahoo Movies" and "webMD." They word-processed their paragraphs and checked their spelling. At the end of the course, both groups were post-tested. They wrote an essay. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) results showed significant differences between both groups. The experimental group made more gains as a result of web-based instruction. They became more proficient, made few errors and could communicate easily and fluently. (Contains 28 references and 3 tables.) (Author)