Lack of motivation can occur when students simply do not understand the material. Elementary school students may be shy of confessing lack of comprehension or asking for another explanation in front of peers. Test your students for understanding before setting them to a task. Students who understand exactly what you expect and how to perform the task are much less likely to become frustrated and unmotivated. Always check for evidence that you have thoroughly explained the material.
Students of all ages can become disenchanted with a subject that has no immediately apparent relevance to real life. Check that you have demonstrated to your students the subject's genuine relevance. Why is this material important or necessary? Can you connect it to a valuable life skill? Although some students may realistically never use a certain skill you teach, you can at least demonstrate its immediate relevance by letting them know that it will be on the upcoming test.
If students only fill out a brief worksheet or complete a quiz, especially on a hard-to-master subject, they may feel a little let down and less motivated to tackle the next challenging material. Check that instruction of especially difficult material culminates with a tangible end product, such as a project or essay. Students can take pride in a tangible accomplishment and their clear understanding, which can foster enthusiasm for future material and an increased desire to do well.
Some students may lose motivation when teachers do not adequately teach to their learning style. For example, auditory learners may become frustrated with reading. Check that your instruction caters to as many learning styles as possible. Provide the material in a variety of formats; for example, a recording, a hands-on project or a written report. If your students' learning styles are extremely varied, you can keep motivation up by providing choices for demonstrating comprehension of the material. Being flexible will show your students you care about whether they learn, not just whether you teach.