This paper to present some key elements, which ensure student motivation. The test for whether an activity is highly motivational is the following: ‘Would the learner want to do this if s/he were not trying to learn the language?’ If the answer is ‘Yes’ then it is safe to say that students are going to like it. Examples of four distinct types of activities liked by students will be given like. People like activities where they get to talk about themselves. Such activities lead to natural communication and lead to greater bonding between classmates. We are compulsive puzzle-solvers. Once they have a specific puzzle to solve some students get so involved they may not even notice that the lesson is over! Students love interesting material, but they like even more things that they prepare themselves. Especially if in doing so they can give their creativity free rein… Students like fast-paced activities, especially if the latter have a competitive element. If students know there is going to be a contest, they may even spend time preparing at home. Key words: motivation, EFL activities, natural communication