First and foremost, let’s cut that politically correctness crap that anyone can learn a second language and that there are no bad students. That’s not true. I’ve learned it the hard way.
I’m not talking about those individuals who are pure evil… What I’m just saying is that some people should focus their efforts on something attainable.
Let’s face it: some people are great learners. Others are average. Others suck at that. I was great at History/Geography and sucked at Math. Great at English and sucked at Portuguese literature. That depends on:
Personality
Commitment
Intellect
that is how your brain works. 
So… what makes a bad student?
1. Has No realistic goals – expects to be speaking and understanding everything in 6 hours/days/weeks.
2. Passively receives information and believes that the teacher will concoct a magic potion that will make them learn – doesn’t know why they’re learning.
3. Waits for the teacher to present interesting things for him to watch, read and listen to (during class time, of course)
4. Never reviews or records any lesson material
5. Displays weak learning skills – won’t take notes but doesn’t hav learns r-e-a-l-l-y slowly, if ever.
6. Feels Forced to learn
The positive point is that bad learners can be converted into good learners.
First, find out what makes them tick. What motivates them (unless they’re clinically depressed – then advise them to seek medical and psychological care).
Assess their needs and their learning strengths and weaknesses – do they have a good memory? Are they slightly dyslexic? Do they need speech therapy? How’s their hearing?
Empathize
Provide opportunities for success.
Cheers,
Mo
The Americanoid Blog 