30 Reading Teacher Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Adaptability Questions
- 2. Behavioral Questions
- 3. Career Goals Questions
- 4. Discovery Questions
- 5. Diversity Questions
- 6. Education Questions
- 7. Experience Questions
- 8. Job Satisfaction Questions
- 9. Leadership Questions
- 10. Problem Solving Questions
- 11. Scenario Based Questions
- 12. Stress Questions
- 13. Teamwork Questions
- 14. Trust Questions
Adaptability
1. What methods have you used or would you use to assess student learning?
How to Answer
To answer this question, let the interviewer know more about your favorite styles/methods of teaching. If you are partial to certain resources or tests to acquire data, share your preferences and how you track progress and performance over time.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I like to assess my students' learning in both formal and informal ways. I have them create a concept map, because I find this to be an effective informal method of assessment. I do this about once a month so that I can see any advancements that are happening in their learning. A more formal way of assessment is regular in-class testing, which I also do."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"The methods that I have used to assess my students' learning include running records, Dibols, the Wilson WADE, and QRI's as well as assessing student writing samples. I assess my students informally by listening to them read and assessing whether they are fluent or choppy. I also ask them questions about what they just read."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Fantastic! Your reply is highly detailed, and you do a great job showcasing your range of resources. This answer certainly positions you as a knowledgable educator.
Behavioral
2. Do you manage your time well?
How to Answer
In order to be successful, teachers must manage their time well and remain organized. You can answer this by using an example of a time when you were under a tight deadline and were able to make it through. Share what tools and resources you use to keep yourself organized and how you hold yourself accountable to your priorities.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am confident in my time management skills and use multiple tools to ensure my time is divided appropriately throughout the week. Just last month, I had a major exam to grade for 35 students. Knowing I was under a tight timeframe to grade these, I turned off my phone and email and spent two hours focusing solely on grading before I moved to another task. Blocking off sections of time in my calendar to focus is very helpful for me. At the beginning of each week, I also make a list of all of my to-dos and plan out time to complete each one."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Career Goals
3. Ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
How to Answer
When answering this question, it is best to talk about where you would like to take your career in the future and how you would like to accomplish that. Be honest about your goals and aspirations, but also try to commit to the reading teacher role you're applying to for at least a few years. Schools want to invest in staff who are going to stay around to make an impact.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"Ten years from now I would love to be in a leadership program within the school. I feel that in order to do that, I would need to further my education by enrolling in a Masters' program in the evenings and weekends. This isn't in my immediate future, but I am interested in that type of growth."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Career Goals
4. Why do you want a career as a reading teacher?
How to Answer
When answering this question, you can absolutely incorporate a personal story or the journey that led you to apply for the role. You could also talk about what inspired you to become a teacher in the first place.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I was in elementary school, I personally had a tough time with reading. I had a teacher who would take additional time out of her day to help me. She made sure I didn't fall behind. When I looked back, years later, and realized how important her role was in my education, it really inspired me to follow the same career path. I want to be a reading teacher because I understand the importance of making a difference in a child's life. And, I am really good at it because I genuinely care."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I love working with children. I love to see how they progress from emergent to fluent readers."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
These are good, fundamental reasons to desire a career as a reading teacher! I encourage you to think of ways that you can add to this response, perhaps personalizing with a story that the interviewer will connect with. This addition would ensure that your answer does not fall flat or get 'lost in the crowd.'
Career Goals
5. What are your career goals?
How to Answer
This question should always be answered honestly and should incorporate natural next-steps in your career. The interviewer will want to see that you are willing to commit to this particular role for the near future, so be careful with how you phrase wanting to one day move on to another position, if that is the case.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am very happy as a Reading Teacher. My long term goal would be to further my education as a teacher and obtain my master's degree in education. I would love to be in a faculty leadership position in the future."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I would love to be a reading teacher. I love working with children. I would love to instill the love of reading in all my students. I like knowing that I have truly made a difference in someone's life. Another goal I have is to write a book."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Good start! I see you have a lot of passions, which may be causing your answer to jump around slightly. Try sticking with a couple of specific and measurable goals, and then give a high-level overview of how you plan to achieve these career goals :)
Discovery
6. What is your favorite thing about being a reading teacher?
How to Answer
Your answer to this question will give the interviewer insight into your plans for the role. Share an aspect of the job that lights you up and keeps you motivated. Your passion for the role should shine through here, so be sure to share something that is meaningful and will add value to the school.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"My favorite aspect of my job is getting to know students all over the school through read alouds. I love to travel from class to class, meet kids, and engage them in a quality book. I love the connection and discussion that reading books together allows for and the growth students experience when they observe skilled readers reading. Not to mention, it allows teachers a break from reading instruction! It never gets old for me, and it fills up my cup!"
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Discovery
7. Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
A great place to start is to understand the reasoning behind the question. Primarily, the interviewer will use this question as an icebreaker. However, to you as the candidate, it can feel like being put in the hot-seat. The Past, Present, Future interview answer framework is beneficial for this question.
Past: Provide a brief overview of your career journey.
Present: Discuss your current career situation, as it relates to the job opportunity.
Future: Talk about your career aspirations and how this future opportunity is a fit.
When you frame your response using the Past, Present, Future method, it helps you to keep your thoughts on track, allowing you to deliver a well-organized answer with impact. If it feels more natural to you, you can also frame your answer as Present, Past, Future.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"(Past) Initially, I pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education, where I became fascinated with the process and development of teaching students how to read. Only three years into teaching third grade, I decided to pursue my reading specialist credential. (Present) I have gained considerable confidence in my knowledge of supporting reading development. I have done research on certain practices, techniques, and resources that have guided my instruction. (Future) I now plan to focus specifically on leading reading-related professional development and coaching teachers to be experts in reading instruction. I am thrilled to continue my journey at this school and pour into the staff and students."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Discovery
8. What is your teaching philosophy?
How to Answer
The interviewer is simply asking what you believe about teaching and learning and how that plays out in your classroom. There has to be some reason that led you to the teaching profession and some kind of motivator or belief that keeps you going. Share this openly with the interviewer to reveal your passion for the role.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I strongly believe that all students are capable of learning. I believe that all behavior is communication, and that learning begins with strong relationships. I am an advocate for educating the whole child, not just focusing on rigid academics."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Discovery
9. What do you see as your role in the educational, social, emotional, and psychological development of students?
How to Answer
This answer should come more from the heart. There really is no wrong answer to this, so long as you are genuine. As a teacher to young students, you take on several roles. You teach students how to interact and communicate with each other, on top of the academic skills you teach. Consider your role and commitment in the development of the whole child and share your approach to this aspect of the job.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am humbled by how important my role as a reading teacher is in all aspects of a child's life. Helping a student learn to read, strengthen their skills, and build their confidence is an incredible opportunity. When a child understands how to read, and enjoys it, it changes their whole world. Reading allows students to feel more confident in their skin and learn to communicate better with others. I love the opportunity to help develop their social skills as well."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"My role as a reading teacher is so very important to the educational, social, emotional, and psychological development of my students. Teaching a student to learn to read and write is critical to their ability to communicate with other students, teachers, and family members. It builds self-confidence. Teaching a child how to read and to love reading changes their lives forever."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
YES - you make so many excellent points in your answer. Your genuine passion for the growth of the children you teach really shines through.
Discovery
10. What is your philosophy on reading?
How to Answer
This is an answer that you should be very thoughtful about, write down, and practice communicating. It is essentially going to be your qualifying statement as to why you do what you do. Consider why this job matters and what doors reading opens for students.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"My philosophy on reading is that every child should have access to high-quality reading instruction since it is an incredibly complex and important form of communication. Developing healthy readers from a young age is of utmost importance. The ability to read impacts far more than a student's education, and I am passionate about building students' confidence and curiosity through reading."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"My philosophy on reading is that all students should be given good solid reading and writing instruction. Reading is a complex and very important form of communication that children should be taught from an early age. Exposing them to wonderful, rich literature and proper instruction at an early age will enable them to be competent, lifelong readers."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Excellent answer! Your stance is steadfast and well-backed. How do you go about instilling this philosophy with your current students/parents?
Discovery
11. What three words would you use to describe yourself?
How to Answer
Your answer should reflect traits that would make you a great Reading Teacher. You want this answer to be relevant to the position. Also, you can back it with a qualifying statement or an example of how you exemplify the words you chose.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I would describe myself as creative, patient, and encouraging. Recent feedback from my peers, colleagues, and students revealed that they see these same qualities in me. I am a very positive person who believes in building others up and thinking outside of the box to support students and make learning fun."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I would describe myself as positive, happy, patient, and dedicated! I have had other teachers tell me that they always see me smiling. I am very patient with my students especially those that struggle. My colleagues have recommended that I tutor special education students after school because they know how patient I am. My colleagues know how dedicated I am. I am at school early, and I stay late when needed."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
The way you describe yourself aligns perfectly with the interview responses you have given. Your interviewer should be happy to hear a consistent and positive and dedicated tone in your answers. Great work!
Diversity
12. What experience do you have with diverse populations?
How to Answer
Diversity is more than just distinctions along racial and ethnic divides, it also includes gender, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, religion, culture, etc. Explain what diverse populations you have experience working with and focus your answer on the benefits of diverse perspectives.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have worked as a reading teacher in both private and public schools. In both settings, I worked with students of color, students who celebrate different cultural traditions and religions than I do, and students with varying ability levels. I welcome diversity and appreciate all of the different perspectives it has exposed me to. I think we are all made better when we begin to understand the experience of another."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Education
13. What specific reading programs would you like to see implemented for struggling readers?
How to Answer
This is a great opportunity to draw on the research you have done on their organization. You should have a grasp on reading interventions the school is already implementing and describe programs or resources that you have successfully worked with in the past. Your answer should include ways that your teaching methods and reading programs align nicely with theirs.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am a huge proponent for psycholinguistics in reading as well as audiovisual methods. I find my students have responded well to these methods in the past. On your website, you also mention teaching phonetically, which is something I believe in as well. Which methods would you say your facility has seen the most success with?"
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I would like to see the Wilson Reading Program and the Leveled Literacy Intervention Program implemented. These are two reading programs that have proven success among struggling readers. They are sound programs in that they both have diagnostic testing that informs instruction. The students find the stories interesting, they are easily implemented in forty minutes, and teachers can easily--both informally, and formally--assess a student's growth."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Wonderful answer! Your response puts a spotlight on your existing knowledge when it comes to the resources and programs available to students in your region. Very impressive reply!
Experience
14. How do your life experiences prepare you for teaching?
How to Answer
You can answer this question on a more personal note by sharing some of the life experiences that have driven your decision to teach. You do not need to be too detailed or personal, but be genuine.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I grew up with four younger siblings and both of my parents worked. Being the oldest child, I naturally became their mentor. I would help them with their homework after school, in addition to completing my own. I feel that this prepared me for a career in teaching. It truly was a natural progression for me."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I was not the best reader when I was in elementary school. I remember my mother coming home from a parent-teacher conference and telling me that the teacher and the principal told her that I and my brothers had to read more in order to improve. We were all excellent math students. Every Saturday, my younger brother and I would go to the local library for a Story Hour, and once a week my mother and I would go to pick out books. As I advanced in grade levels, I realized how important the ability to read was to all the core subject areas, including math. Reading has become a life-long passion of mine."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
You offer up a terrific story that is engaging and meaningful. This reply is excellent and will allow the interviewer to truly get to the heart of your passion for a career as a reading teacher.
Job Satisfaction
15. What do you like most about a teaching career?
How to Answer
Consider what gets you out of bed in the morning and what makes you excited to go to work. Be sure to answer this in a way that shows your true interest in the career path you have chosen.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"The one thing that I am most excited about in the morning is knowing that I am on my way to making a difference in a child's life. I have been given the irreplaceable task of influencing them for hours a day - teaching them how to communicate and giving them confidence. That truly is what drives me in this career."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"Working with children is what I like best about being a teacher. I am an example of the old adage that if you love what you, it's not a job. I love to see the children accomplish things that they couldn't when I first met them. It's satisfying to know that it was because of my teaching that they have made these accomplishments. One of my students came to me as a non-fluent reader in September. By December, he was reading more fluently, and not only that, but he enjoyed reading. He always had a book in his hand and wanted to show me what he could do."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Your career sounds very fulfilling, indeed! The story that you include about the student is the perfect added touch. You are 'showing and telling' versus just 'telling,' which is a key to a fantastic interview response. Well done!
Job Satisfaction
16. What kind of work environment do you thrive in?
How to Answer
Since there are many different environments within education, it is best to talk about two or three of your preferred types of environment and then finish by asking the interviewer how they would best describe the environment at their specific institution. Consider what you find most appealing when it comes to a school's values and how the staff work together. Describe an ideal setting in which you would feel welcomed and supported, be challenged appropriately, and grow as an educator.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have worked in a variety of environments within education. My current role is in a classroom setting with multiple students. My previous position was a more one-on-one based environment. I was able to succeed in both environments. What I am most interested in is working alongside dedicated and supportive teammates to foster student growth and a love of learning."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Leadership
17. How do you go about classroom management?
How to Answer
Classroom management is a big aspect of teaching. A plan for strong classroom management can be the make or break of a successful class. The interviewer will want to hear that you have somewhat of a plan in place to help students learn classroom routines and procedures and to invest students in norms, rules, and classroom culture. A strong teacher candidate will have thought about classroom management at length and arrive to the interview expectant of this question.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe in co-creating classroom norms and rules, teaching and modeling classroom routines and procedures, and having a system to provide feedback to kids in regards to their academic progress and behavior. I like for the group to come up with classroom rules together so they feel included and invested in the classroom environment. I spend the first two weeks going over routines, encouraging students who catch on quickly to procedures, and focusing my attention on the little things so students learn how to function in the room. I also introduce my behavior chart and feedback system so students know what to anticipate and be held accountable for."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Problem Solving
18. Describe a situation where you had to make a quick decision.
How to Answer
This is a great time to give an example of a time when you needed to make a quick decision that resulted in a positive outcome. Try to describe a meaningful situation where you had to weigh options and find a solution. Make sure to highlight your unique strengths that came in to play. Provide relevant context and be sure to talk about the resolution and the positive outcome.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"Last month, I was teaching a class of 15 students when one of the students passed out. Rather than scaring the children, I quickly called the Principal and asked her to move my students to another room and call the school nurse. We had the situation under control immediately. Rather than panicking and freezing in fear, I was able to manage the situation with little distraction to the rest of the school."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I was in the middle of doing a mini-lesson in a Learning Center class when my student got a bloody nose. I quickly got him a box of tissue, and I had him sit for a minute holding the middle of his nose. I regrouped the other students. I quickly got back to my lesson without too much time lost. After a few minutes, his nose did not stop bleeding, so I had a friend of his escort him down to the nurse's office. I avoided a possible bloody mess on the floor and all over the student's clothes. I got him the care he needed, and I managed to contain the class."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
The exciting adventures of a teacher! :) You handled the situation well, and it's great that you mentioned keeping the other kids safe and under control throughout the event. Nicely done!
Problem Solving
19. What was the most frustrating thing that happened to you as a teacher?
How to Answer
Answer this truthfully, but be aware to not create a negative vibe in the interview. Telling a story and getting upset about it would be unprofessional. Remain positive and talk about how it helped you grow as a person and in your career.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"One of the things I find frustrating as a teacher is when I am making amazing strides with a student, but I recognize that their parents are not giving them the one-on-one time at home in order to keep the momentum going. I have learned that I cannot control what happens with students outside of the school. So, I have tasked myself with creating such a natural passion for reading in each student that they cannot help but want to continue to grow in their reading journey."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"The most frustrating thing that happened to me as a teacher was when one of my students consistently failed to do homework. I tried to explain to her that the more consistently she does homework and the more effort she puts into it, the faster she will progress. Once she started to do her homework consistently and to read for at least half an hour each night, she became my best student."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
To transition nicely when giving a story example, I recommend using the STAR framework, which is Situation, Task, Action, Result. This method will ensure that you provide the right amount and type of information to allow the interviewer to make sense of your story.
Scenario Based
20. Please tell me about your most challenging experience while working with children and how you handled it.
How to Answer
This is a 'Tell me about a time when...' type of question. Use a recent example and provide relevant context so the interviewer is able to understand the scenario. Be sure to include the positive outcome and why you were proud of that outcome.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"The most challenging experience I have had so far was being tasked one-on-one with a five year old child who had never been given a book to read. This child was far below the standard reading level for his age and he didn't show a great interest in reading. He only expressed interest in video games. I was able to help him create an interest by introducing books that were related to his favorite games. It took a lot of one-on-one time and patience, but eventually he was able to read at grade level. The best part was that he was beginning to really enjoy it!"
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"My most challenging experience while working with children was when one of my students would not complete a written response. The student was bright, and I knew he could do the work. By his own admission he didn't like to write about anything he wasn't interested in. I explained to him that sometimes we have to write about things that don't interest us. I also offered him a few options to complete the written response. I suggested that he use the RACE organizer. I asked him if he wanted to dictate his answer to me, and I would write it for him. I also offered to allow him to type his answer on the computer. He finally came around and decided that he would dictate the answer, and I would write it down for him. He completed the assignment. I discussed the matter with his 4th-grade teacher. She was a bit surprised, and she showed me his writing composition book. He actually wrote many excellent responses for homework. I borrowed the book for our next class and I complimented him over and over again about his excellent writing. The student was more receptive to the writing assignments after that."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Your approach shows a great deal of patience, understanding, and desire to uncover the core of an issue. This response is terrific and will show the interviewer so much about your character and approach to teaching. Well done!
Scenario Based
21. Tell me about a time you dealt with an upset parent or guardian.
How to Answer
Unless you are brand new to teaching, you have likely experienced an upset parent or two. Share about a time when you experienced an upset parent and how you met their needs or reassured them. Try to choose an example in which you were not the reason the parent was upset. Maybe they were upset about a lack of communication coming from the school or their child's interaction with a peer. Whatever the scenario, assure the interviewer that you are able to listen and respond to the parent's needs.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"Last year, a parent called me very upset about the schedule for parent/teacher conferences. She wasn't able to make either night, due to work, and was frustrated that there were no other options to connect with her child's teachers. I assured her I would make time to meet with her at a separate time and would assist in setting up the rest of the conferences as well. The parent was able to meet with me and her son's other teachers a week before parent/teacher conferences, and she greatly appreciated me taking the time to meet her needs."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Scenario Based
22. How would you work to engage a student who appeared to be disinterested in reading?
How to Answer
Oftentimes, students express disinterest in reading because they are struggling and frustrated. They usually require a little encouragement, some go-to reading techniques, and a book they really enjoy. Share how you would engage a struggling student in your own authentic way. Be sure to center your answer on forming a relationship with them and working towards building their reading confidence.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I know that students show disinterest because they often lack the necessary skills to enjoy reading. I would first try to build a relationship with the student in order to learn more about their interests and develop trust. I would then find them a book within those interests to keep them engaged in the reading. I would teach targeted reading skills that could help them push past difficult words without getting frustrated and encourage them to make predictions, discuss the characters, and connect what they read to their own life. Sometimes giving a student your undivided attention and having organic discussion around a book can help them open up and get excited about the reading."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Stress
23. Have you ever been overloaded with work?
How to Answer
This can be a tricky question as you want to answer it honestly without appearing to be an individual who is easily stressed. Provide a thoughtful answer, sharing about a situation in which you felt overwhelmed but were able to recover from. Answer confidently and explain how you dealt with the amount of work you had to do. The interviewer wants to see how you will deal with stress when feeling overwhelmed on the job.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I have been overloaded with work before. When I first began my teaching career, I took on too much. I wasn't as experienced as I am now when it comes to time management. I worked many late nights and weekends. I feel that it is par for the course in this line of work when you are starting out. Now, I seldom feel overloaded or overwhelmed since I have more experience."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Teamwork
24. How do you see yourself partnering with teachers?
How to Answer
Reading teachers often work in conjunction with classroom teachers to develop reading curriculum, offer support for struggling readers, and provide training in new reading programs and/or methodologies. Reading teachers may also pull students out of the class to work with them in a small group or one-on-one. The best way to answer this question is to talk about where you see your strengths, and what you can offer your fellow teachers.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I have previously partnered with other teachers, it is because we see a natural synergy between our skill sets. I am happy to partner with other teachers who are new, who request my support, or who I can work collaboratively with to strengthen students' skills. Recently, I partnered with a music teacher. He wanted me to teach his students how to read music sheets like they were a story. I was able to help him in that regard. Later, he attended one of my classes where he taught my students how to incorporate rhythm into reading."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I love collaborating with other teachers. I was constantly talking to teachers about students that we have in common in order to inform or to improve my teaching. My current position has given me a great deal of experience partnering with teachers. I have observed several classes such as English, Spanish, physics, music, and math classes. I have been asked to work with an individual student, as well as students in small groups."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Wow - it sounds as though you are highly diverse and collaborative. Robust and confident response - well done!
Teamwork
25. How would you go about assisting a teacher who came to you and explained that her students were struggling with reading comprehension of a specific text?
How to Answer
This is a common scenario a reading teacher may find themselves in. Often, on top of helping specific students develop reading skills, reading teachers are called upon to assist teachers with unit and lesson planning. They are seen as experts in their craft, and often work alongside teachers to improve reading instruction based on students' needs. Tell the interviewer that you would accept the invitation, how you would assess the classes needs, and how you might work with the teacher to help students make progress.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"If a teacher came to me with a need, I would immediately accept the invitation and listen to hear more about the situation. I'd ask questions about what they have already tried, what has worked, and what hasn't. I would work with the teacher to develop targeted lessons that guide the students to make conclusions. If it were appropriate, I would offer to model a reading lesson for the teacher to offer up a new approach or perspective. I would work closely with them until they felt comfortable to move on."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Teamwork
26. How would you help to expand our school library?
How to Answer
All schools desire and deserve well-rounded libraries that cater to the needs and interests of students and their teachers. Having a teacher onboard who knows children's literature well and can make suggestions to close gaps in genres and topics is a huge asset to the school community. Many schools are now making a push toward ensuring their libraries contain books that are representative of all walks of life. It is important that all students can see themselves in the stories they read. Share your thoughts on the importance of a well-rounded library and how you would assist the school in building one.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I would first look closely at inventory and survey the staff as to what they think the library is lacking. Teacher voice is absolutely necessary, and likely, they already have great recommendations for titles. I'd then look to see where there were gaps in terms of genres, authors, topics, and perspectives. I'd then come up with a plan combining teacher input with my findings to add to the school's collection over time."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
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27. As a Reading Teacher, what do you believe is your best asset?
How to Answer
Because our area of strength is almost always what we consider our best asset, your answer to this question could determine where the interviewer would like to place you, should you be successful in the interview process. Answer honestly, and even better, demonstrate the asset with an example. If you are stuck while thinking through this answer prior to the interview, take advantage of a free online strengths or personality quiz to gain some ideas.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe that as a Reading Teacher, my best asset is my ability to patiently teach the subject. I do not rush my students or make them feel pressure if they do not understand the first time. My students and their parents have often commented on how relaxed and natural my personality and teaching style is."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
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28. Why should we hire you?
How to Answer
This is a great opportunity to share what sets you apart from other candidates. Beyond your passion for the role or your love of reading, think critically about what is it about you that makes you the very best fit. Be confident and compelling in your answer.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"You should hire me because not only do I fit all of the requirements for this position, I also bring the bonus of my specialization as a special needs educator. I have that extra training in my tool box that helps me best support a wide variety of students. My work history is strong, and I have many great references within the education community."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
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29. What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve it?
How to Answer
Be honest about your answer. It is ok to share a real weakness you are actively working on, just be sure not to share something that would disqualify you for the job. Whatever your weakness, keep your answer positive. Growth is a good thing. Show that you can recognize areas of improvement within yourself and explain what you are doing to actively improve.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I would say my greatest area for improvement would be prioritization. I feel like all of my work deserves utmost priority, and because of that, I can feel overwhelmed. Over time, however, I have become much better at placing certain projects on the back burner while focusing on the task at hand. It's been very helpful. I have also started using an online project software to keep track of deadlines. This has helped me to plan and prioritize my time on various projects and potential scheduling issues."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"My greatest weakness is not being totally organized. We were so busy in the reading program that I did not always have time to put away books and file papers. I was focusing on creating lesson plans and teaching the students. I soon learned that I had to get more organized. I decided that before I went to lunch each day I would take a few minutes to put away books and file papers and folders, and I did the same before I went home at the end of the day."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It's great that you recognize this and have a plan of action for improvement! If you are referring to a specific period in your career, it would be a good idea to set the stage of your story a touch more clearly.
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30. What is your greatest strength?
How to Answer
The best way to answer this would be to consider positive feedback you've gotten in the past that speaks to your top ability. You could also give an example of an award or any kind of recognition you have received for this strength. If you are unsure, consider taking a free online strengths or personality test to gain some ideas.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"This past year I was recognized by my faculty supervisor for my innovative thinking. I was able to research and implement a new reading program that incorporated music and art across all grade levels. The students were enthusiastic about it, and it was effective for the students struggling with reading, because it gave them another avenue to process the tasks. So, I would say that I'm not afraid to seek out new ideas and do the work required to put them into practice."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"One of my greatest strengths is my ability to build rapport with students. Every Monday morning I ask the second-graders if they had a good weekend and what they did. Then, I would tell them something that I did over the weekend like cleaning my house, or going to dinner, or seeing a friend. Building a rapport with children is important because it makes them more cooperative."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
This approach is very nice! You are caring and kind to your students. The examples you provide will show the interviewer that you have a natural interest in the lives of your young students.