S11/E2: Creating environments for intrinsic motivation to flourish with Larry Ferlazzo

S11/E2: Creating environments for intrinsic motivation to flourish with Larry Ferlazzo

Author: Ellevation Education August 29, 2023 Duration: 50:40

How can we apply the four aspects of self-determination theory to increasing opportunities for intrinsic motivation to flourish? What can teachers do in their classrooms to make their students, particularly MLLs, feel more connected to their learning? Why is it important to find a healthy balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation for students?

 In his second appearance on Highest Aspirations, we get into the topic of student motivation and what we can do to spark it, and maybe more importantly, to sustain it with Larry Ferlazzo. Ferlazzo has been teaching English and Social Studies to English Language Learners and English-proficient students at Luther Burbank High School in Sacramento for twenty-one years.  He is the author or editor of thirteen books on education, writes a teacher advice column for Education Week and hosts an accompanying podcast, and hosts a popular resource-sharing blog.


Download the full episode transcript and visit our blog for more resources and free EL educator toolkits.




At the heart of Highest Aspirations are the voices and stories of English Language Learners, a dynamic and fast-growing part of the student population. Created by Ellevation Education, this podcast moves beyond theory to explore the real-world experiences shaping classrooms today. Each episode connects you directly with educators who are in the trenches, students navigating dual languages, and researchers translating data into practical strategies. You’ll also hear from families and community advocates, whose perspectives are crucial yet often overlooked. These conversations collectively tackle a central question: how do we build systems that genuinely allow every student to thrive? Rather than offering simple answers, the series delves into the complexities of policy, instructional practice, and cultural belonging. It’s a space where the vibrant ELL community gathers to discuss both challenges and breakthroughs. Tuning in provides a nuanced look at the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing actionable insights and shared humanity. The Highest Aspirations podcast ultimately serves as a thoughtful forum for anyone invested in creating more equitable and effective learning environments for all.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Highest Aspirations
Podcast Episodes
Centering indigenous voices in education with Georgina Owen [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:47
In this episode of Highest Aspirations, Sandra Medrano-Arroyo speaks with Georgina Owen, Indian Education Coordinator at the Colorado Department of Education, about advancing authentic and equitable education for Native…
Effective coaching for teachers of English learners with Paula Polk [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:41
In this episode of Highest Aspirations, Sandra Medrano-Arroyo speaks with Paula Polk about her journey from classroom teacher to language coach and district leader. Paula shares insights on coaching with integrity, empat…
Organizing a summer newcomer program with Sarah Whitfield [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:13
In this episode of Highest Aspirations, we speak with Sarah Whitfield, an ML Instructional Specialist, about the summer Newcomer Academy she directs. Sarah shares the intentional structure of the program, which is design…
Creating authentic learning experiences for ELs with Dr. Carol Salva [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:38
Season 15 of Highest Aspirations begins with Dr. Carol Salva, author of Boosting Achievement. In this episode, Dr. Salva shares updated strategies from the new edition of her book designed to support English learners, ne…
Igniting real change for English learners with Carly Spina [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:01
This episode of Highest Aspirations features Carly Spina, an author and passionate advocate for English learners, as she shares her inspiring journey and groundbreaking work.Join us to hear how Carly's upbringing profoun…
Connecting with students from hard places with Elise White Diaz [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:40
Elise White Diaz, a passionate advocate for trauma-informed multilingual education, joins Highest Aspirations to discuss practical strategies for connecting with and supporting students who have experienced trauma or com…