The answer:

Motivating children who appear withdrawn is a common problem. Some find it easier to disengage from tasks that are too difficult or don’t push them enough. However, there are ways to reach even the most reluctant pupil.

1. Look at your differentiation

The first step is to think about differentiation. No one should be expected to differentiate every activity, but you can alter your approach to differentiate for every child. For example, you might facilitate their thinking through a different style of questioning or use open- ended questions to provide greater challenge.

2. Break tasks down

Try breaking down tasks into shorter, achievable steps. This will give pupils a sense of achievement that will motivate them to try harder when they are faced with a similar task in the future. You can also refer back to these small achievements to show the child that they can do it when they want to.

3. Ask why

We also need to ask whether external factors could be leading to disengagement. I am not suggesting that you approach the child about this directly, but listen out for anything in conversations that might offer a hint. If they were previously a motivated learner but have suddenly become disengaged, then this could suggest a specific reason.

4. Play to their interests

If basing a lesson around Pokémon Go or Lego is what it takes to engage a child and support them in accessing the curriculum, then do it. Never underestimate the power of child-led learning. Get them involved in planning their own learning - a sense of ownership could be the key to unlocking their potential.

Tracey Lawrence is assistant headteacher and specialist leader of education in social, emotional and mental health at Danemill Primary School in Leicester