Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) – Grades K-6 (5625) Practice Test

Extrinsic motivation describes motivation that is influenced by outside factors beyond a person’s control, such as rewards, grades, praise, or avoiding punishment. This means the drive to act comes from external incentives rather than from internal interest in the activity itself. For example, a student might study mainly to earn a good grade rather than because they find the subject engaging, which is characteristic of external motivation. Intrinsic motivation, in contrast, comes from within—enjoyment, curiosity, or personal satisfaction. Self-determination refers to a broader theory about autonomy and choice, not the external influence itself. The idea of intrinsic control isn’t the standard label for this concept.