Motivation..

Some kids have it, others don't. Motivation is a main reason people are successful in school and in life. While a majority of my class is motivated to turn in work and do well in class, I still feel there are some that just don't care. I have spoken to these students individually and tried to plan out ways they can be successful and what we can do so they change their habits. These students are the ones I have to call on numerously throughout the day to finish work or to get started doing whatever it is I have them doing. It is frustrating when a student doesn't care about the lesson you are teaching after it took you so long to try and create something that was engaging and fun.

One of my least favorite lines from my students is "this is boring..."! When students say that it means that the activity is really lame, its too hard or way too easy. I would like to think my lessons are exciting and that my tasks aren't too challenging or too easy, it just seems like some kids just don't care. I plan activities and assignments with the purpose of engaging students in things they are interested in, but even that doesn't work. I am not going to give up on these students but it sure would be easy too. I am sure that many teachers, after trying several things like myself for these kids, give up. I don't want to give up because I will be doing what most everyone else has done to these students, not care. I have to find a way to connect with these students and dig deep to find a solution. I would love some help...any suggestions? email @ kaybryan@msu.edu