As students are now back into the school year routine, they are being assigned tests, quizzes, collaborative work, and large projects in classes. Usually this can be stressful for students, however in Mrs. Graziano’s third block class, students like Anderson Ramirez, a Brunswick sophomore, have found a new way of motivation and focus—mints.

When questioned about how mints impact his productivity Ramirez said, “Mints definitely motivate me to do my work faster and better.”

Mrs. Graziano’s English 10 class can be seen many days actively trying to complete assignments and tests. The more mints, the more motivation.

Now these aren’t just any mints; these are Life Saver wintergreen flavored mints, made by Wrigley, that Mrs. Graziano had purchased last school year, as an incentive for MCAP state testing. 

One of the many studies done on motivation for classroom learning was in 1990: a 2008 article from Missouri State University,  states that Joel Warm and William Dember at the University of Cincinnati discovered that the scent and taste of mint can help students concentrate better and complete tasks more efficiently.

Another study from 2006 completed by Brian Raudenbush at Wheeling Jesuit University discovered that the scent and taste of both cinnamon and mint can lead to increased ratings of alertness, as well as reduce frustration. 

Some staff members are also noticing the positive impacts from mints.

Ms. Kowalski is an academic specialist here at Brunswick High School, when asked about the positive effects that mints have, she said, “[during her time at Tuscarora High] We noticed how during PARCC testing [now MCAP] students were more alert and awake with mints.”

Kowalski also made an emphasis on how mints are a healthier alternative when compared to caffeinated items like coffee or energy drinks.

Mr. Hultslander, who is a special education teacher, also put an emphasis on this when he stated, “Yes, I do believe that mints are a better and healthier alternative to energy drinks and coffee.”

Mints are definitely a form of extrinsic motivation in and around Brunswick halls for now. The studies are clear about the connection between alertness and concentration, so Mrs. Graziano might be on to something.