Problem
Middle school students' level of engagement drop compared to their elementary years. With an increase of social interaction and academic rigor, students become more disconnected from the purpose of their education. Middle school students often do not see the 'why' in what they are doing.
Motivation
Motivation can be broken down into four main categories.
Agentic
Behavioral
Cognitive
Emotional
Motivation to do school
Motivated to think about content
Motivated to interact properly
Motivated to promote self
PBL
Projects
Problem
Place
Big picture open ended challenges
Specific challenge with finite answer
Where the challenge is matters
Integration
STEM
Humanities
Other
English and Social Studies
Math and Science
Math and English Math and History Art and Science
Thesis
Integrated courses will increase student engagement while maintaining academic rigor.