Q: Motivating is a big part of inspiring students. If they aren't motivated to learn, there's probably not a lot you can do to inspire them. Take some time to consider student motivations. First, think about intrinsic motivations. Intrinsic motivations are basically internal. They are personal to each student. For example, intrinsic motivations might include a passion for the subject, or a desire to challenge themselves by mastering a skill. In an English class, you might have students intrinsically motivated by a love of books. Extrinsic motivations are also important to consider. These motivations come from outside sources. For example, parental expectations are an external motivator. Another example is meeting the required GPA to keep a scholarship. It is important to learn what motivates each of your students. You can then use those personal goals to help encourage and inspire them. Each individual learns in different ways. Some students are visual learners, while others do best hearing information. Try mixing up your lessons so that you incorporate different styles each class. Maybe you are teaching about World War II. You could play a popular song from the era, show a video clip of an important battle, and provide a letter from a soldier for students to read. Some students are collaborative learners. Others work best on their own. Try to provide a balance of group projects and individual learning. A great way to inspire students is by treating them as individuals. Once they see that you are interested in them, they are more likely to respond positively to learning. Take some time to learn something interesting about each student. With very young students, Show and Tell can be a great way to get to know kids. Make sure to follow up on what you've learned. For example, you could say, "Teddy, you told us last week you have a new baby sister. How's that going?" With high school or college students, take an interest in their academic or career goals. You could say, "Tom, you're doing really well in my class. Have you considered majoring in Psychology?" Make sure to maintain boundaries. It's never a good idea to get too personal with your students. Sometimes it can be hard to connect learning to real life applications. For example, students might not understand how studying history can help them in their "real life". Inspire and motivate by giving them effective examples of how each lesson applies to them. Show your history students that your class can help them achieve future career goals. For example, you can say, "In this class, we'll learn to analyze primary source documents. This will help you no matter what career you choose. If you're a lawyer, you'll have to analyze testimony, for instance. If you're in finance, you'll need to perhaps analyze stock reports." Students can feel unmotivated and uninspired if they are having trouble in the class. A student who is struggling to understand certain concepts might need some extra help. Take time to give some extra time to students who need it. You could say, "Tina, I noticed you're having trouble with fractions. Maybe during free time, we could sit together and I'll give you some pointers." Ask questions. For example, "Mark, you seem to be having some issues coming up with a thesis statement. Is there something about the assignment that is confusing to you? How can I help?"
A: Consider intrinsic motivations. Understand extrinsic motivations. Appeal to different learning styles. Get to know your students. Use effective examples. Help struggling students.

Q: Small chores each night, like tidying up your room, can reduce longer cleaning sessions during the weekend. Cleaning also helps to reduce clutter that can be distracting when you're trying to do your homework or relax. Make sure you have enough time in the afternoon or at night to complete your homework so you don't feel rushed trying to get it done. The amount of time you set aside for homework each day depends on how much homework you have. Exercise is important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It also positively influences your mental health by releasing endorphins that improve your self-confidence and mood. Depending on what works best for your schedule, you can exercise in the morning or right after school. Working out can increase your energy level so try to finish your exercise routine at least three hours before bedtime so you have enough time to relax before bed. Exercise can be a good way for you to make time for yourself, but if you had P.E. or sports practice during the day, find another way to help you relax like reading a book, journaling, or socializing with friends and family. A good choice for a typical school day is a nice skirt or a pair of jeans, and a top that you know you will be comfy in and that you can dress up with jewelry and accessories. Look at the weather forecast for the next day and pick your outfit accordingly. If it's going to be cold the next day, make sure to have warm clothing like a coat or scarf set aside. Put the books and the homework you'll need for the next day in your bag. If you have extracurricular activities the next day, make sure what you need is ready to go for the next morning. If you have band practice, make sure you have your instrument packed up and ready for school. If you have sports practice, make sure your athletic equipment is also packed up. Doing these things the night before will save you time in the morning. Look at your agenda or planner to see what you'll need to pack in terms of a sweater, an umbrella, homework, and permission slips. Keeping a good sleep schedule has positive effects on your health and can make you feel better. Don't drink caffeine and make your room as dark as possible. Minimize blue light from electronic screens like your cellphone or computer screen.
A:
Do your chores. Save time for homework each day. Get some exercise. Make time for yourself. Pick out an outfit the night before. Pack your bag for the next day. Get at least 8-10 hours of sleep.