Hi Charlene,
Right! And perhaps, that is the best motivation by the student. There are non-tangible ways to recognize outstanding performance, such as peer recognition, displaying an aspect of the project, having the student read, recite, or present all or part of their EC creation. These types of recognition, although not reflected in a grade, can be long lasting and perhaps, even exceed the inspirational or motivation factor a student receives. "Intent vs. content". (Intent - extra credit; content - what a student learns).
Barry Westling