"I enjoy a wide range of subjects; however, my favorite subject to teach is Chemistry. I like that it's so hands on, and the knowledge can be applied to many other areas of science and even math."
The interviewer would like to know which subjects excite you! Whether you love teaching math, or have a penchant for the arts, show the interviewer that you have a true passion for your craft. There is no right or wrong answer here but be sure to avoid speaking poorly of a certain subject, especially if you may be asked to teach that curriculum down the road.
How would you handle a student being disruptive in the classroom?
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"As a High School teacher, I have had my fair share of experience with disruptive students. Because I am teaching teenagers, and not children, my philosophy is to treat them the same as an adult. I will let them know that they are being disruptive and will give the student the option of ending the disruption, or leaving the classroom."
The interviewer would like to know more about your style when it comes to corrective discipline in the classroom. As a High School teacher you will come across students who are challenging, or push your limits. That's a given! Show that you can handle the situation professionally and in a way that demands the respect of your students.
"I truly believe that respect needs to be earned, and not demanded. I earn the respect of my students by becoming invested in their education, their performance, and their needs. I make myself approachable and am open to feedback."
The interviewer would like to know how you go about earning the respect of your students. As a High School teacher you must be able to command presence in the classroom while also being a mentor-type that your students feel they can easily approach with questions and other education related needs. Discuss a bit about your work personality, teaching style, and how your students respond to you.
What qualities do you believe make an excellent teacher?
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"I believe that an excellent teacher should be a strong listener, and have the ability to flexible, and versatile in their day. I believe that I possess these qualities and am also highly approachable. My students can come to me for anything, and that's very important."
List for the interviewer some of the qualities that you feel are most important for a High School teacher to possess. Be sure to tie in the fact that you personally possess these qualities!
Some great qualities could be:
- Passion
- Concern for kids
- Determined and persistent
- Confident
- A confidante
- Flexible
- Organized
- Committed to professional development
- Diligent
- Collaborative
You have been hired as the newest member of our teaching team. How would you first introduce yourself to a group of parents, students, and teachers from our school?
We were initially looking for someone with 5 years' experience in a similar role. Considering you have just 2 years' experience, would you be willing to accept this position at a lower salary?
High school teachers teach students in grades 9 through to grade 12. They are responsible for the entire spectrum of their students' education, from planning the curriculum and lecturing in the classroom, to setting and grading tests, working one on one with students if necessary and liaising with parents.
A bachelor's degree and a state-issued license or certification are mandatory for anyone wishing to pursue a career as a high school teacher. There are several advancement opportunities in this field with experience and completing of specialty programs. It takes patience, dedication and a passion for teaching to work as a high school teacher. Resourcefulness, excellent communication skills and the ability to build a rapport with high school students are all essential attributes for this role.
Why do you like working with high school students in particular? What do you like best in this role and what do you find especially challenging? What are your thoughts on the current high school curriculum? Are you for giving students homework or against it? These are just some of the questions you can expect to be asked at your interview. You can find many more at Mock Questions.