This literature review examines how connecting high school instruction to real-world, functional experiences influence student motivation and engagement. It pulls together research on project-, problem-, and case-based learning, hands-on experiential learning models, collaborative cross-subject projects, and students’ perceptions of relevance. Overall, studies show that when students participate in meaningful, authentic tasks, they tend to be more motivated, stay engaged longer, and often perform better. Hands-on approaches like Kolb’s cycle and the 5E model support this by guiding students through exploration, reflection, and real application skills. Research also shows that collaborative, real-world projects help students stay invested both academically and socially. Across the literature, one theme is clear: when students believe their schoolwork is useful and connected to their lives, their interests, persistence, and overall engagement increases.