How to Answer: Have you ever taught a class with special needs students, or students with a disability? If so, how did you adjust your teaching style or curriculum?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a High School Teacher job interview.
33. Have you ever taught a class with special needs students, or students with a disability? If so, how did you adjust your teaching style or curriculum?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you have experience teaching students who have special learning needs. Show that you are willing and able to accommodate the needs of your students. Give a specific example, if you can.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 30th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I currently have a student in my class who is hearing impaired. For that class, I have special slides to go with each lesson so that he can follow along easily. I have found this to be helpful for other students who have specific cognitive challenges as well. As a teacher, I feel it is my responsibility to happily and readily accommodate my students."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 30th, 2021
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
"Yes, in both of my practicums there were several students with different exceptionalities. All students need to be given equal opportunities to thrive regardless of their disabilities. So, in order to do that, I tailored all of my lessons to accommodate their specific needs. For example, I made sure that a laptop was given to a student who had a mild learning disability so he can access some useful tools to help him such as speech-to-text. I also had to be more organized and prepared so I had to review all my lessons beforehand to ensure that students with special needs are accommodated for according to their IEP or learning plan."
Rachelle's Feedback
Very thorough answer that shows a great deal of care and organization. Well done!
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Anonymous Answer
"Yes, I currently have two classes with multiple students that have IEPs. I believe in differentiating my lessons to reach all types of learners. I may make a hands-on activity for my kinesthetic learners. I may play a video to make an Edpuzzle for my more visual and auditory learners. Using graphic organizers or foldable, scaffolding lessons, offering small group instruction are just some of the ways I can make learning accessible to all students."
Chad's Feedback
This response demonstrates a strong belief in making learning accessible to all students and is well supported by examples from your current role. Well done!