12 Touchstones of Good Teaching

5. Engagement and Motivation

What it looks like: Teachers hook students at the beginning of each lesson using a variety of activities.  Teachers should provide student choice in learning activities, use mysteries and puzzles, as well as novelty and variety in the classroom to engage and motivate students. (Goodwin & Hubbell, pg. 197)

Why it is important: "Student motivation accounts for more variance in student success than ability.  Studies have found that student interest in core subjects declines as they progress through school".  Using choice can motivate students, and puzzles and mystery can help engage students. (Goodwin & Hubbell, pg. 197)

Goodwin, B., & Hubbell, E. R. (2013). The 12 Touchstones of Good Teaching: A Checklist for Staying Focused Every Day. Alexandria, VA: ASCD - See more at: http://www.mcrel.org/products-and-services/products/product-listing/100_199/product-111#sthash.NJswMvKe.dpuf


For something to think about on motivation, see Daniel Pink's TED talk.  He offers research based ideas on how to increase student motivation in your classroom.