A reading program awards prizes for every five hours of reading. The most defensible rationale is that such incentives support what?

A reading program awards prizes for every five hours of reading. The most defensible rationale is that such incentives support what?

• A. Practice makes perfect
• B. Students like receiving prizes
• C. Instruction that enhances student self-esteem fosters a sense of acceptance and competence
• D. Library materials aligned with teaching strategies increase motivation

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is how rewards tied to effort affect a student’s sense of self-worth and belonging in the learning process. When reading time is rewarded, students feel that their effort is noticed and valued, which strengthens their belief that they can succeed (acceptance and competence). That positive self-view is a powerful driver of continued engagement and persistence, making incentives most defensible as a way to support self-esteem and a sense of belonging and capability. While it’s true that prizes might be liked, or that practicing can help improve skills, or that well-chosen materials can boost motivation, these factors don’t as directly explain why the incentive would sustain reading over time in the same way that reinforcing a positive self-concept does.

The main idea being tested is how rewards tied to effort affect a student’s sense of self-worth and belonging in the learning process. When reading time is rewarded, students feel that their effort is noticed and valued, which strengthens their belief that they can succeed (acceptance and competence). That positive self-view is a powerful driver of continued engagement and persistence, making incentives most defensible as a way to support self-esteem and a sense of belonging and capability.

While it’s true that prizes might be liked, or that practicing can help improve skills, or that well-chosen materials can boost motivation, these factors don’t as directly explain why the incentive would sustain reading over time in the same way that reinforcing a positive self-concept does.