Anthony Said:

I was asked during an interview for a middle school math job what teaching styles I use? How should I answer?

We Answered:

Have you ever taught? Explain what you do when you teach - what is your style, what is your manner of teaching. Do you lecture? Do you have the students do group activities and you are a monitor or facilitator? That's the kind of stuff they are looking for. They want to know what you are going to do in the classroom.

Derrick Said:

Is there something wrong with middle school female students to see their male math teacher in speedos?

We Answered:

I don't see anything wrong with it. If anyone asks, just explain rationally why you choose that type of swimwear over boardshorts and let the matter rest there.

Marion Said:

Is it feasible for secondary school teachers to switch between math and social studies if qualified for both?

We Answered:

Yes , it is very feasible! You are wise to want to develop as many options as you can. Different states have different requirements. Go to your state department of education for more specific information. If you are still not sure, try calling someone at your state office and ask. Some state education sites have a listing of job openings which could give you an idea of current needs... what's hot?Also, ask your state education association ( probably affiliated with either NEA or AFT). Do you have a specific district or local in mind where you want to settle for awhile? You might try getting an appointment with their Human Resource person and pose these questions to him/her. Also, you can feel out what openings might be coming up. In smaller school districts they are often looking for a teacher who can handle more than one area, say social studies and math. educational job fairs are another good source of information... what are the districts looking for?

I hold a teaching license with endorsements in Language Arts and Social studies (6-12), special needs K-12. This gave me lots of options. I have never been out of a job in the last 35 years, no matter where I was located. Some states require that you do a student teaching stint or practicum for each endorsement area or level. Some states simply divide between elementary and secondary with Middle school kind of being a gray area. Others list Middle school as a separate endorsement level. Currently, many areas are looking for math and science teachers. There often is a difference between middle school and high school students. You may find that you prefer one age group over another. In fact, I really enjoy my adult classes taught at local prison, my graduate level classes taught at local college, and my online classes. Many community colleges, correctional facilities, and universities do not require a teaching degree at all, but you college degrees will come in handy.

Don't overlook the advantage of being a good coach. Is there an extracurricular area, say football , volleyball, soccer , speech and debate, drama etc. in which you have some talent? It wouldn't hurt to take a coaching or instructional class in those areas as electives. Extracurricular skills may get you a job faster than your academic background. Most districts won't say that, but I have seen it happen time and again. Good luck!

Kirk Said:

Looking into getting a single subject teaching credential in Math to teach middle school...?

We Answered:

what you probably have not looked into (because of your question) is our state systems math and science initiative. See the overview here:

http://www.calstate.edu/teachered/msti/

There are scholarships and of course the aple grant that forgives your loans (after working in high need areas)

Jesse Said:

Distance Learning Middle School Math Course?

We Answered:

I took two classes from Dr. Rachelson. see the link. recommended but check with your district to see if they will allow the units. My district had no problem as they are accredited with SACS.

http://onlinemathcourses.org/

Diana Said:

How is teaching math?

We Answered:

To teach secondary level math, you should major in mathematics. During your first years teaching, you will be overwhelmed with planning and grading. Try to find a mentor to take you under their wing! Once you've learned the ropes, you will find free time to pursue hobbies and have a life.(When you're not taking continuing education courses.) Out of all the subjects, math is the quickest to grade, though. It's a tough job, but very rewarding. The kids make it fun and interesting. You'll never get bored! (I teach 8th grade algebra)