What type of motivation is represented when students learn a new term in their native language to help convey meaning?

The correct answer is Instrumental motivation. This type of motivation occurs when learners are driven by the practical advantages associated with acquiring a new skill or knowledge, such as learning a term in their native language to enhance understanding or communication in a second language. By focusing on a term in their native language that helps convey meaning, students are demonstrating a pragmatic approach to language learning, where they see immediate benefits that aid their comprehension or performance in a specific context, such as an academic or professional setting.

Instrumental motivation is often linked to goals that are not inherently related to the language itself, but rather to external outcomes such as job opportunities, academic success, or fulfilling specific requirements. This contrasts with integrative motivation, which is more about the desire to connect with a culture or community, while intrinsic motivation refers to learning driven by personal satisfaction or enjoyment derived from the learning process itself. Extrinsic motivation typically relates to external rewards such as grades or praise. In this scenario, the focus on effectively conveying meaning through vocabulary aligns closely with the principles of instrumental motivation.