Disciplinary Issues

The most frequent concern I hear from teachers is how to handle students who lack motivation. Sometimes we want to call them lazy, but I do not allow that "L" word on my campus. Unmotivated is really what they are and is also something we can address. So, how do we motivate the unmotivated? I believe that when we have clear, consistent classroom expectations, continually assess the level at which students are mastering the objectives, and vary our instruction, then we increase the odds that students will be engaged and motivated.

Assessments need to be meaningful to students. When assessments lack authenticity, students do not see the need to complete them. Additionally, assessments need to be challenging, without frustrating the students into noncompliance. By allowing students to choose how to show objective mastery, students can use rubrics to challenge themselves in methods that motivate them.

Varying instruction is a must. On our campus, we utilize block scheduling. Trying to lecture and complete worksheets for 90 minutes will kill anyone's motivation. Varying the assessment every 15-20 minutes assists in keeping students actively engaged.

So, what do you think? How do you keep your students motviated?