This pilot study examines the role of metacognitive awareness as a motivational strategy in second language learning. The paper begins by exploring metacognitive strategies within the general language learning strategy framework, and then zooming in upon "interest enhancement" as a particular strategy that influences motivation and…

Extensive on-site interviews in six Iowa school districts revealed that understandings and beliefs in three high-achieving school districts differed markedly from those in three low-achieving districts. The high-achieving districts had an "elevating" view of students, a focus on school renewal, and action-oriented goals. (MLH)