Task 5

Blog: Motivating the Unmotivated by Carrie from Walden University
How does this relate to the work you do in your classroom? My behavior intervention class is dedicated to motivating the unmotivated. Whether the lack of motivation is academic, behavior, or attitude, my students need skills to motivate them. I really enjoyed the thread on this blog, because the participants have several of the problems I see weekly. Most common, was finding a “reward” that motivates older children. Younger students are satisfied with a smiley face, or sticker; but we all know how difficult more mature students are to please. : )
How does this deepen your thinking about this domain? Many classroom management problems stem from a lack of motivation. I have realized through reading this blog that the first step in correcting any discipline problem is to start by motivating the student. If a student is motivated to learn, behave, or produce positive attitudes, more than likely, they will not cause classroom management problems.
How could this fit into your inquiry plan? I believe that the information found on this blog will be very useful when writing my inquiry plan. How exactly can I motivate my older students during their behavioral interventions? Which problems occur most often? These are questions asked within the blog, which correlate to my potential plan.

Article: Real-World Issues Motivate Students by Diane Curtis
How does this relate to the work you do in your classroom? I have always been a firm believer that when students can relate their work to real life, they comprehend better and remember it longer. This article enlightened the use of world issues to motivate older students. The students enrolled in “Why Try” would enjoy solving today’s problems as a team, and would thrive on doing something that relates directly to the outside world.
How does this deepen your thinking about this domain? Going about motivating students via real world problems, is an excellent idea. I think the article really deepened my views on “thinking outside the box”. I need to come at this domain from all angles, examining every opportunity to bring balance and control through engaging activities.
How could this fit into your inquiry plan? The information from this article will best fit into my inquiry plan, in collaboration with the info. found in the video. I think using both techniques together will encourage and motivate my students to make a difference. As they are making a difference, they will be learning life skills, such as how to behave and present themselves in group situations.

Video: Using Sign Language in the Classroom
How does this relate to the work you do in your classroom? Sign language is something few teachers ever use, but many could benefit from. In my classroom, I try unconventional methods to show positive behaviors and actions; much like using SL to promote understanding and acceptance. : )
How does this deepen your thinking about this domain? Finding what connects with your students is an essential component in classroom environment. Being able to identify with a group, can build self esteems, and create a safe place for many students. I believe by learning basic SL, it will unify us as a class, and help build a foundation for future endeavors.
How could this fit into your inquiry plan? I am contemplating introducing some SL into my “Why Try” lessons. Not only will it be a fresh way of demonstrating uniqueness and individuality, but it will also be an open forum for diversity and acceptance of others. I am hoping that if implemented successfully, my students will become motivated and challenged by this activity.