Eema
We have the same situation. Our 9 year old, who is easily well capable of most things, would rather sit and watch paint dry than sit down and do some prep. for school (even when the prep. is really interesting and challenging). Of course this leads to a lot of frustration as we try to get him to do the things that need doing, and we still haven't resolved it - other than to consider the fact that he is just plain lazy!
One teacher said "when he works he is 'okay', when he tries he is excellent"