Motivational Strategies in the Language Classroom

Cambridge Language Teaching Library

by Zoltán Dörnyei

When trying to explain success or failure in second/foreign language (L2) learning, the term 'motivation' is often used by teachers and students alike. Indeed, motivation is one of the key learner factors that determine the rate and success of L2 it provides the primary impetus to initiate learning the L2 and later the driving force to sustain the long and often tedious learning process. Without sufficient motivation, even individuals with the most remarkable abilities cannot accomplish long-term goals. This book takes a practical approach to teaching motivational strategies in the language classroom and gives the teacher 35 motivational strategies that they can use with language learners.

Genres: Education, Teaching, Nonfiction, Linguistics, Language

164 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

Zoltán Dörnyei worked for 10 years as a language teacher trainer and applied linguist at Eötvös University, Budapest.

He is now Professor of Psycholinguistics at the School of English, University of Nottingham, UK. He has published nearly 100 academic papers and book chapters on various aspects of second language acquisition and language teaching methodology, and he has written over 20 books on motivation, group dynamics, research methodology and the psycholinguistics of second language learning.

Reviews

[Bro · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a must for creating the best atmosphere in the L2 classroom. Many things we have forgotten in our childhood and Dornyei hits at the heart and soul of humans to bring out their best for the spirit of the classroom and for their personal betterment. It is worth your time and care to read this book and gather your memories of what it is like to be in a classroom and then think how hard it is to learn another language. These things will help you as they did me.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly interesting and very hands-on. Definitely a recommendation for all language teachers.

[Eric Hinkle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great tips and background, and a really engaging read, too.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

so easy to understand and follow ~~ have always loved his work ~

[Paly_arell Arellano Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good tips for the class

[Csabi Berger]

Quite a must for everyone who has ever been interested in motivational strategies and the motivation of students in classroom environment in particular. The text of the book is rather easy to understand, but also somewhat academic with references and examples from all over the world. However, I did not like the excess of Hungarian examples in the book, most of the were quite relevant and easy to follow, there should be more studies and experiences shared and listed as examples from other part of the world where the teaching of the English language might not be conducted in the same way as it is in Hungary.

[Rebekah Kerr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best education book I have ever read. It really does go into great depth of why some students don't seem to care or want to learn....its all the other stuff and it matters. I read this in one night...I would say read it if you teach

[Shelby Werner Thayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great, practical reference book for all teachers (ESL/EFL and otherwise) who are concerned about motivating their students in the learning process (which is hopefully all teachers). I am slightly biased because this is what I am basing my MA thesis on.

[Brandon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Concise, well-written, interesting, and loaded with good techniques and advice.