Motivating Junior High Students to Learn Math Research Paper

Motivating Junior High Students to Learn Math - Research Paper Example This research will begin with the statement that if junior high school students could be motivated to learn mathematics, they could achieve lifelong success since mathematics is the core of other academic disciplines such as accounting, construction, engineering, and medicine. Students in junior high school are energized by four main goals which include success, curiosity, creativity and satisfying relationships in their studies. In motivating students to learn mathematics, the teacher should ensure student engagement in learning. Engaged students are committed to their learning despite any challenges or obstacles and aim at accomplishing their studies. Educators agree that motivating junior high school student to learn mathematics is challenging. The social structure has changed hence teachers and other stakeholders need to change if the needs of the junior high school students are to be attained. Some societal changes include an increase in family breakups, working parents, and inn ovations in technology. The complexity of mathematical content in the curriculum has also changed. There is a strong relationship between school achievement and the quality of life. Motivation to learn mathematics can either be intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation is the desire of students to engage in learning activities which bring joy and self-confidence to them. This motivation focuses on the learning goals such as mastery of mathematical concepts.