The basic units of motivation have always been external and fear-driven. Work hard in school, we’ve told students, or you’ll get a bad grade, disappoint your family, look foolish in front of peers, or fail to get into college or secure a good job. We have been trying to train people like we train dogs. We love our pets, but our students’ lives demand cognitive skills that go way beyond obedience and rote moves.

Looking for ways to re-engage students in reading? These free resources help build comprehension, confidence, and real engagement with texts.

In recognition of Zinc’s contribution to education, the College Board presented Zinc with the CEO Breakthrough Award. This special award highlights Zinc’s achievements with teachers, students, and administrators. With Zinc, students learn skills they can apply to every text they read and every test they take.

Students don’t avoid challenging texts because they’re lazy—they avoid them when meaning breaks down. Here’s how to help them engage with complex reading.