Relationship between L2 Grit and English Academic Achievement in Secondary School English Learners

Abstract

Grounded in the theoretical framework of second language (L2) grit, this study investigates the levels of L2 grit among secondary school students in China and examines its relationship with their English academic performance. Based on questionnaire data and final English examination scores from 85 students at a secondary school in Qingdao, the study reveals two key findings: 1) students demonstrate moderately high levels of L2 grit across both dimensions—perseverance of effort and consistency of interests; 2) both dimensions of L2 grit are significantly and positively correlated with English academic performance. These results indicate that students with higher levels of L2 grit tend to achieve better academic outcomes in English learning. The findings further suggest that fostering L2 grit in young learners not only enhances their academic performance but also contributes to the development of sustained motivation and resilience. Therefore, the study calls for greater attention from educators to cultivating students’ long-term motivation and perseverance in language learning.