What should a substitute teacher do if a student is disengaged?

Choosing to connect the lesson to the student’s interests or provide additional support is a highly effective strategy for engaging a disengaged student. When a substitute teacher takes this approach, they demonstrate an understanding that each student has unique motivations and interests that can be leveraged to foster engagement in the learning process. By relating the content to what the student cares about, or by offering additional help, the substitute teacher can enhance the student's motivation and make the lesson more relevant to their personal experience.

This method is beneficial for several reasons. It encourages a supportive learning environment where students feel understood and valued. This can lead to a more positive classroom atmosphere, where students are willing to participate and share their thoughts. Additionally, providing targeted support may help the student overcome specific challenges they are facing, allowing them to better engage with the material at hand.

In contrast, ignoring a disengaged student can often lead to further isolation and may exacerbate their lack of interest in the lesson. Assigning extra homework might overwhelm the student or further dissuade them from participating. Similarly, calling for immediate assistance from the main teacher might not address the issue effectively in the moment and can disrupt the flow of the lesson. Thus, connecting the lesson to the student's interests or providing additional support is a proactive