Motivation and Learning

Activities List

Developing Confidence and Motivation

Through the tests themselves

One of the main aims of the Cambridge Young Learners English tests is for the children to enjoy the experience and feel relaxed and motivated during the test. Providing encouragement and motivation is much more important in these tests than in tests for adults. The tests are structured to help do this by beginning and ending each component with easier tasks. Children are assessed on what they achieve, not on what they have not yet learnt to do. An award is given to every candidate who attempts all three components of the test.

Helping your students to feel confident

All of us feel more confident and motivated about something when we know information about it and feel familiar with the subject or task, and young learners are no different. They may also feel nervous about taking tests so it is important that you do not overemphasise the idea of an exam. Focus on their successes and on the award they will get after they have done it.

You can help your young learners to prepare for the tests by:

• using tasks in class that are success oriented, in other words, that ensure all students can feel that they have achieved something.
• praising your students' work as much as possible.
• talking about the tests and giving your students an opportunity to ask you questions about them.
• using similar kinds of pictures to those that they will see in the test so they are aware of the fun element.
• bringing in another teacher to ask questions or listen to so they get used to speaking or listening to other adults in English.
• doing a short quiz about the test in class, such as a true/false activity.
• creating interest in the test by telling them about other children that may be taking it around the world.

For a teacher development activity, look at Motivation and Learning.