Which of the following is NOT listed as a strategy for increasing student motivation?

• A. Planning and directing interactive hands-on activities for learning
• B. Give students control
• C. Break larger tasks into more manageable steps
• D. Use harsh punishments to enforce compliance

Answer: (D)

Motivation in the classroom grows when students feel engaged, capable, and in control of their learning. Planning and directing interactive hands-on activities keeps students actively involved, makes ideas tangible, and taps into curiosity. Giving students control supports autonomy, which helps students invest in their work and see themselves as capable learners. Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps reduces overwhelm, provides clear milestones, and helps students experience ongoing success. In contrast, using harsh punishments to enforce compliance does not increase motivation; it tends to create fear, reduce intrinsic interest, and undermine trust, often leading to disengagement rather than sustained effort. So the statement describing harsh punishments is not a strategy for increasing student motivation.