Yeah, that's a tough question to answer, since the correct answer depends a lot on why the student is sitting in front of you in the first place. If the chemistry between teacher and student isn't right, I might suggest another teacher (if that's an option open to you). Otherwise, I try to create lessons around their interests. It's amazing how much someone will try to communicate with you and answer your questions about what they like. Also, sometimes students can be depressed and not in a learning mode. They may not only be unenthusiastic about learning a language, but about life in general. Well, there's only so much we can do as language teachers. And maybe your student is absorbing a lot of your teaching regardless of whether he/she shows enthusiasm about it or not. Good luck!

I think people enjoy talking about themselves, so I would relate the language activities to be more centered on your student who lacks interest. The more you talk about him/her, ask him/her questions about themselves, or relate the activities to them, they will probably show more interest and not even realize that you're trying motivate them since they will be motivated to talk about themselves and do it naturally. Hope this helps.

Everyone who learns a language need to have a reason for studying it. As a teacher you can points out the positive benefits of learning languages for the purposes of travel, future careers, making new friends when you go on student exchange programs etc. Of course the teaching style has to be varied in order to interest the class. Preparing traditional dishes, excursions to restaurants, movies, plays and the country of the language being studied helps motivate students.

Try to help them build up the inner motivation. You probably can talk to them more and find out what they like. Encourage them to speak freely about these topics in English. It works on me, but not sure it'll work on your student or not. But no harm to try. Good Luck.

i am not a teacher,acually ia am a student.and i have the passion in learing english bacause i want to take part in a lot of compitition.and to prove myself .i can do it,i have the ability.... i hope it can help u