Motivation 2

In my previous motivaiton blog I addressed how students can be motivated in the long run, when intrinsic motivation (understanding of content) is applied in a classroom instead of extrinsic motivation (stickers, candy, points).  However, ensuring motivation on a day to day basis will be another area I will need to focus on.  Many of these day to day activities that will keep students motivated, overlaps with the necessities of classroom management.  One specific activity I will utilize will be to work in groups or pairs.  Students often are exicted and motivated to work with other peers rather than to work by themselves.  This can be seen as early as preschool years.  Students greatly prefer the presence and interactions with other students over the chance to play alone.  Another important aspect of this activity is that students who are struggling with a concept are able to receive support from a peer.  Sometimes hearing an idea explained by a peer rather than an adult is better understood, since the peer is able to use more familiar language as they have similar schemas which are less complex then the teachers.  This explanation with simlar expression and more familiar language can prove to be a more concrete representation then what the teacher had originally used.  Also, it is easier to stay actively mentally engaged when you are working with a peer who is holding you accountable for having input.  When you are working alone there is no one next to you bringing your attention back to the assignment or asking you what you think. You can easily let your mind wonder off task.