Core Skills Analysis
Social-Emotional Learning
The student worked with Self-Determination Theory, which focused on understanding motivation and the conditions that help people stay engaged and grow. Through this activity, the student learned about the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness as three key needs that support healthy motivation. The activity likely helped the student think about how personal choice, skill-building, and supportive relationships can influence effort and persistence. It also introduced an important framework for reflecting on behavior, goals, and what helps people feel motivated from within.
Tips
To extend this learning, invite the student to connect each part of Self-Determination Theory to real-life examples from school, hobbies, or family routines. A simple sorting activity could help the student classify situations as supporting autonomy, competence, or relatedness, which would deepen understanding of the theory’s main ideas. You could also try a reflection journal prompt such as, “When do I feel most motivated, and why?” to build self-awareness and personal connection. For a creative extension, have the student design a poster or comic showing how a character becomes more motivated when their needs are supported.
Book Recommendations
- The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper: A classic story about perseverance and self-belief that connects well with motivation and confidence.
- Salt in His Shoes by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan: This inspiring book shows how practice, encouragement, and determination can support growth and achievement.
- Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae: A popular picture book about finding confidence and motivation through support and self-expression.
Try This Next
- Create a three-column chart for autonomy, competence, and relatedness with examples from everyday life.
- Write 3 quiz questions explaining how each need in Self-Determination Theory affects motivation.
- Draw a comic strip showing a student becoming more motivated when given choice, support, and encouragement.