Focusing On Whay They Already Know
I have found that focusing on what the students already know is beneficial. For instance, instead of me explaining a story, I ask them for examples. They may not have recognized that they did already know some pieces of knowledge about the topic until you do this. Often, they just did not know the correct terminology or recognize it as something applicable to the classroom. When they realize they have knowledge, they are more excited and motivated, which spreads throughout the classroom.
This is a great way to not only motivate students but to motivate ourselves. This is an excellent for everyone to learn new things and increase involvement in the classroom.
It also gives the students a sense of pride that they have prior knowledge about the topic. They become more open to accept new ones if they get acknowledged to have a certain degree of information and skills about the topic you will be teaching.
Would agree. This also gets the students more engaged in the classroom, helping to keep the class fun and learning. A definite positive learning experience.