This guide provides a general overview of research on student motivation in classroom and school settings and a guide to help teachers and school teams to analyze the sources of students motivational problems and consider changes that will improve motivation. Chapter 1 defines motivation, considers the extent of the motivation problem, and summarizes some conclusions from the research. Chapter 2 combines a review of the research on the use of incentives with the practical experience of educators in an urban district (Birmingham, Alabama). It stresses that rewards can be overused and reduce interest in learning and that punishment can lead to alienation and frustration. Chapter 3 discusses classroom factors (related to instruction, assessment, and classroom climate) that have been shown to relate to student interest and effort and suggests an overall framework for a classroom environment that results in student engagement and interest. Chapter 4 focuses on school wide policies and practices that affect student motivation. Chapter 5 suggests ways to assess motivation including analyzing achievement and behavioral indicators, using existing motivation instruments, and using focus groups. Chapter 6 offers concluding remarks about how schools can organize to improve student motivation. Schools are urged to collect data from students and to support ongoing planning concerning the improvement of student motivation. (Contains 85 references.) (JLS)