High school students are different from the elementary pupils. Motivating the high school students is not always an easy task as what others believe. Inspiring them requires techniques. In addition, it takes more than one method to keep them motivated to learn. In order to motivate the high school students, the following are hereby suggested:

1. Treat them like an adult. Give the students a choice whenever possible.  Offering choices gives students a sense of control rather than feeling constantly directed. Teenagers with a sense of choice will feel less like there is a huge authoritative presence over them. Additionally, they will feel like they have more opportunities for creativity if you offer them choices.

2. Inspire students by introducing activities that relate to them. Incorporate what’s the trend. Relevant news, interesting themes, and famous group band, these are the things that students are comfortable and familiar with, so they will be more inclined to pay attention.

3. Teach at a level that is challenging and respectful to the intelligence of your students. If you give students assignments that are far too easy, they will likely tune out. Therefore, opt for levels that challenge a student. Just make sure that you don’t raise the level to one that your students find to achieve. Raise the expectation to a level just above their capability.

4. Take your students seriously. Teenagers will have hard feelings about you if they can sense an arrogant tone. Do not underestimate the importance of simply treating them like you would treat any other adult.This means you should consider criticisms and compliments equally.

5. Be approachable. Students can feel comfortable enough to come to you with issues or concerns. Students will be more inclined to let you know when they are feeling uninspired. But you should not force the student to tell you why they are feeling depressed. Try to let them come to you about these issues.

By: Mayla L. Constantino | T-III | Magsaysay National High School