The phenomenon of the "middle-years dip" in mathematics engagement and achievement has been a cause of concern for over a decade. This paper presents an example of one upper-primary classroom identified as having higher than average levels of student engagement, with the purpose of documenting specific teaching strategies that align with known key elements of motivation and engagement. Drawing on evidence from teacher interviews, observation notes and lesson video with recorded dialogue, we argue that particular types of one-to-one interactions between teacher and student can have a powerful influence on student engagement.