I usually start from student targets and try to propose the best way to achieve it. A good level of engagement is the best way to study together: a smile and a joke are always welcome, but italian grammar isn't the easiest subject to study!
Also italian culture could be the matter of our lessons, as I made several times for foreign guys in Italy. Important subject could be non-verbal comunication: body and mimic are important channels of communication for italian people.
Let's try and test me!