What is an example of a student displaying intrinsic motivation?

The choice of John reading every book by Philip Roth, his favorite author, exemplifies intrinsic motivation because he engages in this activity for personal satisfaction and enjoyment. Unlike extrinsic motivation, which is driven by external rewards or the avoidance of negative consequences, intrinsic motivation focuses on the internal satisfaction one gains from the activity itself. John’s passion for his favorite author indicates that he values the pleasure and fulfillment he receives from reading, independent of any external validation, rewards, or grades.

In contrast, the other scenarios illustrate forms of extrinsic motivation. For instance, Lisa studies hard specifically to achieve high grades, which means her motivation is tied to an external goal. Tom completes assignments to avoid punishment, indicating that his motivation is driven by a desire to escape negative consequences. Finally, Sarah participates in competitions primarily for trophies, which suggests that her motivation is linked to obtaining a tangible reward. These examples highlight the importance of recognizing the different types of motivation and understanding how they influence student behavior and learning.