In my 15 years of teaching in primary schools, I’ve discovered that most teachers can be tripped up by the same characters in lessons involving physical activity.

One cold winter’s evening, I concocted a test and a conclusion to solve this issue, and I’ve boiled it down to three key “PE personalities”. These personalities can quickly become disruptive if the appropriate action is not taken swiftly.

1. The reluctant runner

This “disengaged” pupil will often forget their kit and shy away from answering questions.

The challenge: To ensure that they become an included and valued member of the class.

The method: Focus on fundamental skills such as agility, balance and coordination. Focus on giving specific praise for success, according to the pupil’s personal goals. For example: “Well done, Rebecca, I really like the way you extended your fingers when making the pass.”

Teachers should also incorporate lots of “talk for learning” strategies so that pupils develop confidence whilst discussing key concepts in pairs.

2. The speedy swimmer

This “energetic” pupil is constantly moving and often confuses completing a task quickly with completing a task well.

The challenge: To keep them physically engaged while also developing their control and accuracy of movement.

The method: Teachers need to focus on getting them moving as much as possible. Keep teacher demonstrations precise with a focus on control. Ask pupils to lead some demonstrations for the class, thereby giving them a sense of pride and responsibility.

3. The talented triathlete

Talented pupils can be identified as those who complete age-appropriate tasks quickly with a high degree of accuracy and precision. However, if they’re not challenged constantly, they can become bored and disruptive.

The challenge: To progress their skills in accordance with their ability and beyond.

The method: Set specific challenges that combine a range of skills. Teachers can use the “Step” principle as a guide to differentiating tasks, ensuring that individual pupils are challenged appropriately to make sustained progress. It works as follows:

* Space - decrease or increase the physical space used for the activity.

* Task/time - adjust the task to make it more challenging, or change the time limit.

* Equipment - change the size or type of equipment that you use.

* People - alter the number of children in a group or the type of pupils in a group.

Jazz Rose is a PE teacher and the founder and director of J and C Academy. He tweets @MrJazzRose