Needs analysis for animated video development in biology learning among grade X and XII high school students

Some biology material is difficult to understand because it contains many terms, interrelated concepts, and processes that cannot be observed directly. These conditions highlight the need for instructional media that can help students understand the material through clearer and more engaging presentations. This study aims to analyze the need for developing animated video media for biology instruction at SMAN 2 Kota Bangun by identifying student characteristics, material considered difficult, and preferred learning media. This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey as part of the needs analysis phase within the ADDIE development framework. Data were collected in July–August 2025 via an online questionnaire administered to 58 Grade X and XII students selected through purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, and thematic grouping of open-ended responses. The results showed that most respondents were Grade XII students (82.8%), female (75.9%), and aged 17 years (50.0%). Mendel's Laws were the most frequently reported difficult topic (39.7%), followed by genetics (24.1%). Learning difficulties were primarily related to dense content, abstract concepts, and scientific terminology. Animated videos were the most preferred learning medium (63.8%), mainly because students perceived them as helpful for understanding and visualizing the material. These findings provide an initial basis for designing animated videos on Mendel's Laws with a systematic presentation of concepts and stages of genetic crosses. However, the findings reflect students' perceived needs and preferences, while the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed media require further evaluation.