Motivating students without tangible incentives

Positive reinforcement via praise goes a long, long way.

For motivating students i think simple, frequent positive reinforcements or rewards, are easy to set up and implement. Success breeds success. High achieving students work hard at school and take risks. Their confidence is based on their own past successes and the security of probable future success. The classic concept and the basis is mix it up and differentiated instruction, but it needs to be said: using a variety of teaching methods caters to all types of learners.

Trust is vitally important too. The teacher needs precedence with the following:

1: Creating a positive learning environment,
2: Working patiently with the class,
3: Taking extra steps to help students meet their goals, and
4: Setting clear expectations.

Most students then want to reciprocate. They become (more) motivated and strive to succeed.