Hi Joannie:
Getting students motivated can be tricky, especially if you have a cohort that is less than fully interested in learning. You have some good comments. I would just add that motivation had to come from within to be meaningful. I think when students can be inspired to see what they're capable of achieving, that they can be succsessful, and that their teachers care about their learning - these kind of things can positively contribute to internal motivation.
Regards, Barry