For example if a student does well on a test and a teacher encourages them then they are more likely to strive harder on the next test. Likewise if a student does not do as well on a test they do not receive the praise or reassurance they are likely to accept the idea that they can not do well, and thus will not try. A thoughtless remark from a peer can also discourage children in the classroom. Academic achievement is dependent on more than individual abilities and aspirations. The social environment in which learning takes place can enhance or diminish the behaviors that lead to achievement (p. 523) Academic achievement also includes the way information is presented, the kinds of activities that teachers use. The interaction teachers have with their students is also important.

Many students establish ideas about their academic ability from t

Students should always fell connected. This can be accomplished through advisory programs, cooperative learning and peer mentoring, peer counseling and community service. Whether or not students participate in these programs they need a "climate or culture of trust, respect, caring, concern, and a sense of community with others." (Deci & Ryan 1991) Since student/teacher interactions play such a crucial role that even a single event can determine how the student feels about a class and how he will perform (Caruthers) here are a few suggestions for creating a warm and nurturing climate:

• smiling at them less or giving them fewer other nonverbal indicators of support.

• waiting less time for them to respond to questions;

• Talk to students about their discipline problems privately, perhaps outside of the classroom door so not to embarrass them in front of peers.

• criticizing them more often for failure; and

Where do we go from here? The difficulties to learning are far greater then the limits of the students ability and their background. We must first understand the many reasons why students avoid the hard work and then take the steps to foster student interest to learn. Students must feel that they are in control of their education. They must be given the freedom to discuss their views and help make decisions that will effect them directly. For example students should be ask the questions what do you expect to learn from this assignment. As High school students they should be taught to think independently and to brainstorm on the information they already know. High schoolers should also be allow the freedom to think in and work in groups that they choose. Teachers should not lower their expectations for their students. Teachers must go into the classroom with

Some topics in this essay:
Learn Motivation, Le Gall, Deci Ryan, P2 Teachers, Hampel Teachers, school students, students school, academic achievement, low achievers •, achievers •, expectations students, motivate students, • providing, material taught, students learn, student test,