The Influence of Speaking Anxiety and Attitude on English Speaking Skills

Abstract

This study aims to determine the influence of speaking anxiety and attitude on the English-speaking skills of students at private senior high schools in East Jakarta. This research employed a quantitative approach with a survey method. The population of the study consisted of students from SMA Budhi Warman I and SMA Budhi Warman II, with a total sample of 100 students selected using purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using multiple linear regression. The results revealed that: (1) there is a significant simultaneous effect of speaking anxiety and attitude on students’ speaking skills, with a significance value of 0,000 < 0,05 and F-test = 429,427, (2) speaking anxiety has a negative and significant effect on students’ English-speaking ability, as evidenced by Sig = 0,003 < 0,05 and t-test=-3,071; and (3) attitude has a positive and significant effect on students’ speaking skills, with Sig = 0.001 < 0.05 and t-test= 3,914. The coefficient of determination indicates that the two variables contribute 92% to students’ speaking skills. These findings suggest that reducing anxiety and fostering a positive attitude can significantly improve students’ English-speaking abilities.