One great way to do that is to have students design their own lesson plans. In an age of frequent assessment and Common Core State Standards, the idea of handing off curriculum design to students might seem reckless. However, when students are active in the development of their learning, the process can become not only interesting, but inspirational.
In one pilot program at Monument Regional High School in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, a small group of students were given the opportunity to completely design one year of self-directed, peer-supported learning. The program was very successful and has been extended in the school.
Teachers outside the pilot program but within the school itself have adopted some of the self-direction seen in the program to allow students freedom of choice in developing and designing their own curricula. As a result of this spin on traditional education, students inside and outside of the pilot program report having a greater investment and sense of ownership in their education, which will hopefully stretch throughout their learning careers.