TEA Student Motivation & Engagement 3

Question 1

A principal wants to use data to identify disengaged students before they drop out. Which early warning indicator is most directly associated with dropout risk?

Accepted Answer

Chronic absenteeism (missing 10% or more of school days)

Answer

Chronic absenteeism is one of the strongest predictors of dropout risk and is a widely used early warning indicator in Texas and nationally.

Question 2

A campus implements a mentorship program pairing at-risk students with staff members. This intervention primarily addresses which component of Self-Determination Theory?

Accepted Answer

Relatedness

Answer

Relatedness — the need to feel connected to others — is addressed through mentorship relationships that make students feel cared for and belonging in school.

Question 3

When establishing a campus vision for student engagement, a principal should ensure the vision is:

Accepted Answer

Co-created with input from students, staff, families, and community members

Answer

Inclusive vision development with all stakeholders increases buy-in and ensures the vision reflects the real needs and values of the school community.

Question 4

A principal observes that boys in grades 6-8 show declining engagement compared to girls. Research-based strategies to address this gap include:

Accepted Answer

Increasing kinesthetic, project-based, and competitive learning structures

Answer

Research indicates that active, project-based, and collaborative or competitive learning structures tend to increase engagement among middle school boys.

Question 5

A teacher rewards students with pizza parties when the entire class passes a test. According to motivation research, the likely long-term effect of this practice is:

Accepted Answer

Increased test anxiety for lower-performing students who fear letting peers down

Answer

Whole-class contingency rewards can create peer pressure and heighten anxiety for struggling students, undermining both motivation and safety.

(TEA) Texas Education Agency Principal Certification Practice Test

(TEA) Texas Education Agency Principal Certification Practice Test

TEA Student Motivation & Engagement 3