EFFECT OF MOTIVATION AND ANXIETY ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS OF BIOLOGY STUDENTS IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN TARAUNI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KANO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study examines the effects of motivation and anxiety on the academic achievement of Biology students in public secondary schools in Tarauni Local Government Area, Kano State, Nigeria. The study adopts a correlational research design with a quantitative approach, employing a structured questionnaire to measure levels of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, academic anxiety, and academic performance. The population consists of Senior Secondary 2 (SS2) students from selected public secondary schools in Tarauni, with a sample size of 361 students. The findings indicate that both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation significantly influence academic achievement, with students who exhibit higher motivation levels performing better in Biology. Conversely, academic anxiety negatively impacts performance, as students who experience high levels of anxiety tend to struggle with concentration and exam-related stress. The study recommends that teachers adopt studentcentered teaching strategies to enhance motivation, while school administrators should implement psychological support programs to help students manage academic anxiety. Additionally, policymakers should integrate mental health education into the school curriculum to create a more supportive learning environment.