Motivation and Attitude as the Fuel to Develop English Language Classroom Activities: A Self-Determination Study

Abstract

This research study assesses the levels of attitude and motivation that tenth-grade students manifest during English Language classroom activities. The study follows the Self Determination Theory to analyze these students’ levels of attitude and motivation in the classroom activities proposed by an English Language teacher at a public school in Bogota. Findings demonstrate that there are four different types of activities presented and developed by the participating teacher. The students express their levels of motivation with a high percentage in perceived competence, and their levels of negative attitude with a low percentage in pressure and tension. An emergent result displays teachers’ imposition, students’ attention, and obtaining rewards or punishments during the classroom activities process.