Book excerpt: Preparation for university study and integration into the workforce is the academic goal in the final years of secondary education. This preparedness can only be achieved through the motivation and involvement of students in secondary education programs which will lead to successful outcomes. Engaging Adolescent Students in Contemporary Classrooms: Emerging Research and Opportunities is a critical scholarly resource that examines the importance of motivation and concentration during the final years of secondary education in order to promote successful outcomes and experiences for students in higher education environments. Featuring coverage on a wide range of topics, such as failure avoidance, mastery orientation, and student engagement, this book is geared toward academicians, practitioners, and researchers seeking relevant research on preparing students for successful college and university careers through motivation and engagement.