Things You'll Need:
- desire to get a teaching job
- time
- list of common teacher interview questions
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Step 1
First begin by reading sample teacher interview questions. Since most teacher interviews ask similar questions, you can this about your answers beforehand. You can find questions by doing a Google search for "Teacher Interview Questions". You can also find 50 questions and answers in "Guide to Getting the Teaching Job of Your Dreams" at www.iwantateachingjob.com.
A few of questions that are common at teacher interviews include things like:
- Describe your classroom management philosophy.
- How much homework do you give each night?
- Why do you want to teach at this particular school?
- What are your weaknesses as a teacher?
- How do you communicate with parents?
- Describe how you use differentiation in your classroom. -
Step 2
Read each interview question you think they might ask and think about how you might answer each question. You don't want to memorize your answers, but know how to develop an appropriate response for each question.
Some people prefer to write down sample answers or "study" sample interview questions with a partner. Whether you're practicing alone, on paper, or with a partner, the real purpose of the activity should be to prepare yourself for every type of question that might be asked and allow you to think of possible answers. -
Step 3
Next, familiarize yourself with educational jargon. Use the Internet to find a list of words, acronyms, and phrases that may be mentioned in the interview and be sure you know what they mean.
For example, be sure you know and understand how to talk about topics like: differentiation, ESL, IEPs, state standards (if you're in the USA), NCLB, block scheduling, team teaching, and multiple intelligences.
When you're asked a question with a bit of educational jargon in it, you don't want to be the candidate that says, "Huh?". -
Step 4
Prepare a good teaching portfolio! Many teachers DO get jobs without a portfolio, but having one can give you a definite edge oer the other candidates. A portfolio allows you to show off what you have done in the past. It proves that you have actually done the things you're talking about.
Be sure you stuff your portfolio with lots of student work samples, assessments you've made up yourself, pictures of students engaged in hands-on learning, parent newsletters, photos of the bulleting boards in your classroom, your teaching philosophy, and your classroom discipline plan.
When you're asked about these things at the interview, you can simple reach into your portfolio and SHOW them what a great teacher you are.
