ABSTRACT
Two common topics that ensue when discussing underachievement are motivation and potential. It is not uncommon for teachers and parents to proclaim that a student is not motivated or not living up to their potential. Motivation can be expressed as a product of expectation and value. Potential is often defined as latent qualities or abilities that may be developed and lead to future success or usefulness. However, effective teachers design instruction that motivates and individualizes engagement to maximize potential. A synthesis of these descriptions reveals critical elements that educators must address when attempting to nurture motivation, maximize potential, and combat underachievement. These elements are expectation, value, and abilities, which are also critical indicators This chapter discusses how proper attention to these elements can influence student attitudes, behavior, and achievement. Culturally sustaining teaching, differentiated learning, and meaning-making are shared as promising practices to combat apathy and incurious behaviors in the classroom. Observational techniques are outlined to identify and utilize preferred learner strategies and sensory memory.
