27 Teacher Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Teacher interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Behavioral Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Communication Questions
- 6. Compatibility Questions
- 7. Competency Questions
- 8. Creative Thinking Questions
- 9. Discovery Questions
- 10. Diversity Questions
- 11. Education Questions
- 12. Experience Questions
- 13. Leadership Questions
- 14. Management Questions
- 15. Operational Questions
- 16. Organizational Questions
- 17. Technical Questions
Accomplishment
1. Tell me about yourself.
What You Need to Know
This question offers you the opportunity to share your professional journey, your career progression, and why you decided to pursue a teaching career. How you answer this question will inform them if this career path as a teacher is the right path for you. So by sharing your passion for teaching, you will assure them you won't easily burn out on the job, and will find job satisfaction in this teaching opportunity. So start by sharing who you are as a teacher, why you are pursuing this opportunity, and how far you have come along in your career so far, and where you hope to take it next.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Stay Away From
Stay away from sharing that you are trying to make money by teaching as a side gig or a way to support your passion. If you are a musician, for example, and decided to support yourself as a musician by teaching music, this says nothing about your passion for teaching, and does nothing to suggest what you have to offer them over another candidate. Having a niche or a specialty is great, especially if you can demonstrate that you can successfully teach others. But the focus should be on your passion for teaching and your success rate in furthering your students' development, on your classroom management skills, and building lasting relationships with your students.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Pro Tip
Ultimately, they are looking to distinguish those who are passionate for their subject matter, which is of course important, from those who are primarily passionate about teaching that subject matter, and furthering the development of their students. This is especially true of public education. Knowing the subject matter is important, but not nearly as important as being able to manage a classroom effectively and being good with your students. So the trick is to focus less on your specialty and more on your passion for the success of your students.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Entry Level Example
"I had difficulty in high school. I often found myself acting out and being somewhat restless and rebellious. My grades weren't notable either. But there were a few teachers who really went out of their way to reach out to me and help steer me straight. One even modified their curriculum, tailoring their lesson plans according to my interests. I can't tell you how impactful that was. Suddenly, I wasn't nearly as bored. My grades improved, and when it was time to face going to college, I decided to pursue getting my bachelor's degree in education with a focus on history. I want to help my students the same way those teachers impacted me and the shaping of my character."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Experienced Example
"Both my parents were educators, and it was not only their passion but who they were. They were coaching, counseling, teaching 24 7. In high school I suddenly realized I was the same way. Everyone would start telling me their life story or asking me for my advice. I found myself coaching and helping my fellow students along, and then I started tutoring. I landed in AP classes in school and pursued a bachelor's degree in literature with a focus on education. I've been teaching at a private school for six years now. My spouse and I are interested in starting a family, so we thought it would be prudent to move from our college town where we met, back to being closer to our parents so we'd have additional familial support when we start our family, which is why I am interested in pursuing a teaching position in your district."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Substitute Teacher Example
"I have a bachelor's degree in education with a minor in sociology from UCLA. I earned my teaching license and am accredited in our state. I've been working as a substitute teacher in the Los Angeles County School District on and off for the past 3 years, and can effectively work in any setting. However, roaming as I do as a substitute, I haven't had the opportunity to have as much of a hand in the development and as much of an impact on my students as I would as a permanent teacher. This is the reason I decided to become a teacher to begin with. So, that's what brings me here today. I am dedicated and would do whatever it takes."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Classroom Teacher Example
"I've been teaching at my current school in the district for ten years now. I am highly motivated, emotionally mature, hardworking, creative and focussed. I have letters of recommendation from my principal, and every associate principal at my school. I've mastered the art of managing my students, who in my current school have a reputation of being unruly. I am firm, but patient, and despite how challenging my students can be at times, I have a place in my heart for every one of them. I never give up on them, and put in everything it takes to put them on the right path. I've invested a lot of time trying to make an impact on everyone of them, and getting them as passionate about the subject matter as I am. Even though I can effectively make an impact in any setting, I am competing for a position at this school because I have reached a point where I felt like I needed a change of scenery, and wanted to try reaching out to a different student body at a different pace. This feels like a better fit for me, at this point in my career, and the opportunities for advancement feel right as well."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Department Head Teacher Example
"I am currently going to school part time working on getting my master's degree in the arts. I have a mastery of managing my classroom and am loved and respected by my students, even the most troubled and rebellious of them. My class has won our regional art competition for the last four years in a row. I see what my students can do, and I hold them to a high standard. At this point, I want to increase the impact I have on developing a curriculum for our students as head of the art department. I have some ideas, and my peers are constantly tapping me for ideas. So I feel as department chair I can have more of an impact in a more streamlined manner where everyone benefits."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Currently, I am a paraprofessional supporting an individual child; a job I enjoy doing. I have previously taught vocational skills in high school and also worked in middle school with trio programs. I am eager to join your team to provide quality education to align with the district’s mission.
I have reached a point where I felt like I needed a change to reach out to a different student body at a different pace and to remain with that body and help the district to reach its goal."
Jaymie's Feedback
Adaptability
2. What is your greatest weakness?
What You Need to Know
As a teacher, when describing your weakness, try to think of the growth opportunities you are currently aware of and actively working on. Examine performance reviews, comments from parents, your administrators, or fellow teachers. Anything you could be doing more of, while showcasing your continual dedication, is useful here.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 27th, 2023
Stay Away From
Try to avoid volunteering anything that could make you seem like a liability, unreliable or as if you are burning out on the job. You don't want to come across as unable to manage the stress that comes with being a teacher or the challenges posed by your students. The goal here is to showcase your continual dedication to improving and being the best teacher you can be.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 28th, 2023
Pro Tip
The more self aware and emotionally mature you seem here, the better. Taking ownership of your growth opportunities will provide your interviewer with greater confidence in your abilities, especially concerning managing your students.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 28th, 2023
Entry Level Example
"I am learning how to manage my students better, and have focused on finding ways to redirect the behavior or attention of my students who misbehaved. At first, I was relying too heavily on sending them to the office, but I realized this wasn't helping them. Too often, a student who is misbehaving is simply bored. So I started to focus on ways of occupying their boredom without disrupting the class. So, the forms of discipline I administer now are designed to get them to focus, which I hope will improve their performance. Though this requires some improvement in identifying what makes those more challenging students tick. And this, for me, is where I would like to develop my skills more."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 28th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I feel like one area for me to grow is to find a balance when it comes to my students who I care about who clearly have a troubled home or troubled upbringing. In the past, when I have tried to reach out to my more troubled student's parents and they have been less than receptive or even verbally abusive in response to wanting to help, my level of empathy for the situation has caused me some distress. I really care about their development, and some of these kids are just so talented and could truly go far in life, yet when I see this kind of situation holding them back, the helplessness I feel affects me. So, I've improved at finding more of a center and being at peace with just focusing on the process and doing whatever I can do on my end. But I still feel like I have farther to go in this regard."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 28th, 2023
Substitute Teacher Example
"As a substitute teacher, it sometimes feels difficult to connect with my students, especially when I know I am going to be in a different classroom the next day, or the next week. I really want them to want to learn, grow, develop, and be excited about the subject matter. When managing my time and what we need to cover, I am trying to fit everything in. Yet this leaves little room for engagement, which I haven't made as much of a priority. I realize now I've approached my situation as a substitute teacher too pragmatically. I realize I've relied too heavily on being more structured than engaging. So I am now working on this, and have come up with a few loose scripts when introducing myself, or plug in a creative activity at the forefront of the day's lesson to get them enthusiastic about the subject matter. This has worked, but could be more fine-tuned and further developed."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 28th, 2023
Classroom Teacher Example
"I spend a lot of time focusing on developing my students and offer a lot of chat time after class to give them individualized attention to identify how I can further them along in their studies. However, I am working on managing this time more effectively to allow me to volunteer for more extracurricular activities. It has been a while since I participated in any varsity events or clubs, although I have stepped up for summer school a couple of times, but I feel there is an opportunity for me to do more."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 28th, 2023
Department Head Teacher Example
"A growth area I have been actively working on and improving in is to create more extracurricular programs to further our students' development. Especially our rising stars. Additionally, although I have volunteered to coach the softball team and tennis team, I feel as if I could do more with our booster clubs."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 28th, 2023
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Behavioral
3. How can you encourage a student who lacks confidence and inspire him or her to learn?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know about your interaction with students, mainly how you work with students who find the traditional educational setting to be a challenge. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you're able to be patient and encouraging to students no matter their confidence level.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"When a student lacks confidence I would take the time to show them the areas where they excel and encourage them to do more of that. Often, a student will learn a bit differently than the next, and it's important that a teacher embraces and encourages those differences."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"One of my students scored well above his average on his test and was lower-level than the rest of the class. He was discouraged to see his score, but when we went through his score report together, we established a realistic goal for a 2-point improvement for the next test. I never asked him how many questions he got wrong, but rather, how many he got right, as he missed more than half the page. We only celebrated when he got another question right, and I always made sure to check with him that he did his best. At the end of the two-month course he made the average score and reached our target, and he was slated and signed up for more tutoring classes to keep pulling up his score."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"Every student needs an extra boost of confidence now and then. My encouragement as a teacher shifts on a daily basis. I want my students to feel like they can take over the world! For that reason, I incorporate a 'kudos' system in my classroom. At the end of every day, we get into a circle, and each student has to give a compliment to the student to their right. This activity ensures that every student leaves feeling on top of the world, no matter what their inner voice was telling them that day."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Behavioral
4. If you were asked to create a behavior modification plan for ongoing misbehavior, what would it be?
What You Need to Know
Discipline varies widely across the board. For this question, it's important to consider the disciplinary culture of the school in which you are interviewing. While a strict approach may have worked for you in the past, the same method may not work for students of this school. Think about what has worked and failed in your disciplinary approach in the past. Do you lean more toward punishment, reward, or intrinsic motivation strategies? If you don't have much teaching experience, do some research on effective behavior modification methods as this is a question that's likely to come up in any teaching interview.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I have learned a bit about behavior modification while obtaining my Bachelor's degree in Education; however, I have much to learn and would love to hear more about your take on this topic. From what I know, it would be best to include the school districts' psychologist for severe issues. If the behavioral concerns were typical, I would call a meeting with myself, the Principal, and the parents of the student. From there, I would make a collaborative plan that involved accountability from all parties."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I once had a class with 19 students, many whom were boisterous, disruptive, and uncooperative. None of them wanted to listen to me, a new teacher in their school. So I leveled with them and let them set their own rules as a class. This approach created a pact of accountability. Some of their rules were pretty fun, too - a sleeper would immediately get a photo taken of them, then posted on the class' private Facebook page, for instance."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I have created a few behavior modification plans in my education career and feel that the most effective plans are the ones where the student in question is directly involved in the plan. When the student feels accountable for their behavior, with direct consequences attached to not meeting expectations, I find that behavior plans are more effective."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Behavioral
5. Discuss one memorable parent meeting you have had in the past.
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know about your ability to work well with the parents of your students. As you know, some parents can pose a challenge if they have unrealistic expectations of their child, or are not involved as much as they should be in their child's educational success.
As a part of your teaching job, you may be required to meet and talk to parents regularly, How do you interact with them? Is it a pleasant experience or do you dread meeting parents? The answer to this question will draw some light on how collaborative you are. Keep this answer positive, but don't exaggerate or be over-enthusiastic. A big part of communicating with parents is to be as open and constructive about their child's progress, and sometimes, these meetings can be uncomfortable. Be honest about difficult parents if you've had such an experience, and discuss how you overcame it.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"I understand that parent meetings can be challenging. Parents can get defensive about their child's behavior or be in denial about their children's struggles. In the end, both you and the parent wants what's best for the child. I will always speak honestly but empathetically to a parent about his or her child."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"One time, I had to meet with a very disappointed parent whose child had seemingly stopped improving after almost a year's worth of additional tutoring. He wasn't too happy and demanded that I list out my teaching methods and what I was doing wrong because his child wasn't seeing any improvements. I had to prepare all of his score reports to explain that he had been improving a lot for over half a year but he was fatigued and busy at school, so he had plateaued. I finally recommended the students to take a few weeks off tutoring, and the parent was able to accept that idea."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"One of my students this year would constantly disrupt class by distracting other students or refusing to participate or turn in homework. A few weeks after this behavior continued, I held a parent-teacher meeting and told the parent that while Amanda was bright and creative, I was concerned that she might be having some trouble focusing. The mom ended up telling me that she and her husband were going through a tough divorce. I realized that as a teacher, you only see one side of the student, but there are many sides to a story and it's important to be supportive of whatever at-home circumstance a student may be experiencing. We created a plan for her daughter that including visits with the school counselor, and her attention in class improved significantly, in a short period."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Career Goals
6. Why did you decide to become a teacher?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know more about the passion that drives you to be an educator. If there was a person or an experience that inspired you to choose the path of teaching as a career, share your story. Discuss your passion for what you do by pinpointing the best parts of your day-to-day, as a teacher. Genuine enthusiasm is the key to a successful reply!
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"When I first started University, I entered into general studies because I honestly did not know what I wanted to do. I met with a career counselor who performed a Meyers-Briggs personality test on me, to see if we could discover some of my potential interests. She started talking about the path of an educator, and I was hooked. After a few background checks, and some strings pulled, she was able to get me a 1-week volunteer placement at a local elementary school. At the end of that assignment, I knew teaching was my path. I am ever-thankful for her guidance and have never looked back."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I always go back to memories of my eighth-grade teacher. He had a lot of passion for his class and put his whole heart into his teaching. He spent time after school talking to the students and getting to know them. While his classes were challenging, the biggest influence he had on us was that he always encouraged us never to give up. I believe his influence is what initially sparked my interest in becoming an educator. I try to emulate this same level of care and consideration with my students now."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"Growing up, both of my parents were educators; my mother, an elementary school teacher and my father, a high-school chemistry teacher. They loved their jobs and in fact, just retired a couple of years ago. The schedules worked well for them, and I was always so proud to see them helping people achieve their educational goals. I have been a teacher for fifteen years now and could not imagine doing anything else."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Career Goals
7. What interests you about our school?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to know the depth of your knowledge regarding their school and the demographic. The way you answer this question will help them to determine if you will be a good fit when it comes to their workplace culture. Do some research beforehand about the learning environment. For what is the school known? Is it rigorous and academically-oriented, or perhaps its known for its sports teams? Know what strengths the school offers in the district. Then, let the interviewer know precisely how well you believe you will fit in.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"My interest in your school stems from the fact that I have lived in this community most of my life, and even spent a couple of my educational years attending here. Now that I have completed my degree in Education, I would be thrilled to carve a career for myself in the same community, and district, where it all began!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I've always been interested in e-learning and alternative learning methods for students because I think this is where the future of education is. From my research, this school is very technologically advanced and uses smart boards and offers plenty online classes that students would not otherwise have the opportunity to take, such as AP French Language and Culture. I see that your school also provides students with laptops and promotes a paperless environment, which is a big part of my lifestyle as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I have a few former colleagues who have made their way over to your school. Over the years I have heard wonderful things about your AP options as well as the supportive parent community. I would greatly compliment this positive reputation your school has created, by way of my strong reputation and tenure as a middle-school educator."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Career Goals
8. As a teacher, what makes you happiest?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know how you take pride in your work. Think about some of the most defining points of your teaching career. Was it when that one student who couldn't pull his score up finally reached his target? When your student got into her dream school, or when you finally won over the rowdiest class you'd ever seen? Talk about these moments and how you feel about those accomplishments.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"I believe what will make me happiest, as a teacher, is the fact that I have the opportunity to mold the future lives of impressionable young students. I am a natural encourager and look forward to the opportunity to show my students all the great things they are capable of."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"I'm happiest when I see my students achieving their goals and stretching themselves when it comes to their perceived learning curve. I felt so proud when my student got into his dream school after studying and retaking the SATs for two years. I was happy when my music major student told me she learned a lot more about life than just the English course I taught her. I feel like I'm making changes in the lives of our future leaders."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"What makes me happiest as a teacher is the fact that I get to teach, and learn, all in one day. No day is the same, and there are so many amazing opportunities to learn new facts, new teaching methods, and take advantage of new resources."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Communication
9. If students were having difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
What You Need to Know
This question is two-fold. The interviewer is assessing your technique and ability to encourage and inspire struggling students. How can you help students improve academically? How can you support students personally in their learning?
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"I firmly believe there are many ways to learn. If I had a student who had difficulty learning a skill or concept, I would sit with them one-on-one to learn more about their style, what they like to do, and which lessons of mine they like the best. Education is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and I will have no problem tweaking my lesson plan to suit a variety of learners."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"I had a student who wasn't showing much improvement in her test score after two months. During one of her diagnostic tests, her score even went down. Of course, she was discouraged and confused since she was doing all her homework. I spent a lot of time training her to work on the questions as precisely as possible instead of rushing to finish the test. I was excited whenever she would get just one or two more questions right and kept encouraging her throughout the progress. Another month later, she finally saw some notable improvements."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"Through my education career, I have worked with many students who needed formal assessments to label their learning style formally. I think this is a school provided tool that is often underutilized. I have had a few students placed on an individual learning plan, and I am happy to change my lesson plans to suit them. If a student is struggling, I will address it immediately. I never allow a student to slip through the cracks."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Communication
10. How do you communicate with parents on a regular basis?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to know the resources that you use to stay in touch with parents regularly. There are a variety of useful parent-teacher communication methods. If you can, do some research on the parent demographic at the school for which you're interviewing. If it's a more traditional environment, writing a homework log or making phone calls may be better. Perhaps you rely on email, texting, Twitter, or even a classroom blog to reach out to parents. Whatever they may be, make sure your methods are modern and up-to-date.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I would communicate with parents on a regular basis by encouraging them to email or call me anytime they needed. I have also learned a great deal about the available apps that parents can download, allowing for regular communication between themselves and their child during the day. Do you have a preference at your school when it comes to apps used to communicate with parents?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"In my classroom, we have a private Twitter account that the parents can join. The students will upload photos of their work and can also send direct Tweets to their parents when they are proud of their work. We also have agenda every day, and the parents initial the communication daily. Each parent has my email address, so they are free to contact me at any time."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I have learned over the years that parent communication is incredibly important and necessary to have a well-run classroom. I send out a weekly email recapping everything that has happened in the class that week. Daily, we have an app called Collaborize Classroom where I can send updates, homework links, and photos through to the parents. Everything that I use is completely secure."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Communication
11. How do you accommodate for non-English speakers or low-level English speakers?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to know how you adapt to students who are unfamiliar with the English language or come to your class as an ESL (English as a Second Language) student. This question addresses the level of extra care and supports you would be expected to provide students with this type of situation. Often, ESL students need much more after-class counseling or follow-up with their schoolwork. What other options can you think of to help the student integrate with the class and keep up with the homework? Prepare several strategies that accommodate non-native or non-English speaking learners in reading, discussion, exams, evaluations, and more.
Here are some examples:
1) Pair a foreign learner with a friendly classmate who can help them with their work and adjustment outside of class.
2) Provide written and translated handouts for presentations.
3) Provide study questions, transcribed vocabulary lists or keywords lists.
4) Put students in groups or pairs and avoid having the foreign speaker working alone.
5) Provide one-on-one meeting opportunities and give the student constructive feedback.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"I believe that the best way to accommodate non-English speakers and have them feel part of the student community would be for them to be able to teach something from their native language to their classroom as well. Diversity makes the world go round, and I would encourage all of my students to embrace that. To help the non-English students to learn quickly, I would also provide them with translation resources and a classroom buddy to help out."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"I have had a few ESL students in the past and accommodate them in any way possible. The most effective way that I have seen in the past is to partner them with another student fluent in English. This way, the students each learn something. How to coach, how to cooperate, how to embrace, and how to communicate with those different from us."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"I will usually know ahead of time before a student arrives at my class, with lower level English skills. I like to prepare a few things for them including translation resources and a list of recommended reading for them to take home. I will often recommend tutoring after school as well as a few free, but useful community resources."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Compatibility
12. What is your teaching philosophy?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to know what kind of attitude, and approach, you will bring to their school if hired. Having a positive philosophy when it comes to work is crucial, especially if you spend your days with impressionable young students. Talk to the interviewer about your belief in approaching work, and life in general.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"I believe that healthy study habits start at a very young age, and continue to develop as the student grows. My philosophy will be to teach my students HOW to study, HOW to maintain focus, and HOW to ask the right questions. With those tools at their fingertips, they will be able to achieve so much more."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"My philosophy, when it comes to teaching, is to never give up on my students. Everyone has their talents and strengths. Too often I see teachers giving up on a student because they didn't perform to expectations. But perseverance is key, and I've seen a transformation when a teacher is willing to spend time committing to a student and guiding them through a difficult learning curve."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"My teaching philosophy is that if the student can engage with the content, they will be successful. We lose the attention and interest of so many students because the curriculum is dull, and they cannot relate to it through their everyday lives. I am sure to incorporate today's technology, and social events, into my lessons to keep their attention. Maybe comparing some of the ancient monarchs to Beyonce is a bit unusual, but my kids listen up, and their grades reflect this!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Competency
13. How will you instruct students with varying abilities?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to see how you can adapt to helping students who are at different learning levels and abilities. With this question, you'll want to demonstrate your ability to modify the same material to the learning styles and competencies of each student. Use a specific example, if you can.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"To the students with different abilities, it still essential for them to not feel singled out, and to fit in - being encouraged to show what they do have to offer. For that reason, I enjoy a collaborative classroom environment where students are encouraged to speak up, help each other, and do hands-on group projects together."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"My teaching style is called differentiated instruction. I pace the section I'm teaching based on the student's ability and receptiveness. For instance, if a student has stronger math skills they typically tend to need more reading and writing assistance, so I spend more time working on grammar and brainstorming with them and breezing through the math section. I want to make them feel like the class is suited to their abilities rather than focusing on a curriculum that may not factor in their strengths and weaknesses."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"Students learn in all types of environments, so I work to make sure that there are different workstations in my class - some better for concentration than others. Also when handing out a new assignment, I will give individual instructions for the students who need some extra guidance. I am always on the look-out for those students who need a nudge or additional care."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Creative Thinking
14. What techniques do you use to keep students actively involved during a lesson?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know more about your ability to create exciting lesson plans that keep the attention of your students. Think about a positive experience you had as a student with your teachers, or activities that were effective from your teacher training. For this response, it's a good idea to integrate technology or physical movement, anything that makes education fun in the confines of a classroom.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I think that when I start teaching my high-school class, I would like to start the day with a New Yorker cartoon, something students look forward to every day. If the day starts consistently, but on a lighthearted note, I think the students would respond very positively. Also, these cartoons can spark some great discussions on politics and socio-economic issues."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My students love vocabulary hot seat. You separate the class into two teams and set up two chairs with their backs facing the board. Students take turns getting into the hot seat. You put a word or phrase or concept you've learned in class on the board, and the teams try to describe it to their teammate in the hot seat. Games are great to get the ball rolling again after a long class."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"To keep my students engaged, I will often move them around. I like to put them in a conversation circle and have a Socratic-style discussion with them. I don't say much but let them work out the answers on their own."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Creative Thinking
15. What are some techniques you use to teach besides direct instruction?
What You Need to Know
Although direct instruction works well for specific topics and types of students, teachers are alternating and expanding their teaching methods to combine both direct teaching and the alternative constructivist approach, which promotes social interaction through discussion and stimulates critical thinking. Think about your teaching style - are you more hands-on or hands-off? Do you allow students to figure out answers on their own? Do you like to be highly involved in their solution process?
Here are some strategies that you can discuss:
1) Peer editing, teaching, and assessment
2) Self and teacher assessment
3) Discussion-based lessons
4) Research
5) Learning through visual arts
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I look forward to incorporating a variety of techniques in my teaching when I enter the classroom. What I would like to do is incorporate multi-media, field trips, guest speakers, and group discussions as often as possible. By mixing it up, I will ensure that my students remain engaged and challenged."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I like to use a broad range of techniques including learning through group discussions, hands-on arts-based projects, and self-assessment. I believe that by switching up the techniques in the classroom, I am keeping my students on their toes while also helping them to think more critically about their performance."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"Over the years I have developed a great mix of direct instruction, student-led research, group-based discussion, and multi-media offerings for each class that I teach. It's a must, in my opinion, to offer a few methods for learning so that my students remain attentive and engaged."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Discovery
16. How would you improve public education, if you had the power to do so?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know about your understanding of the public education system and the district in which you would be teaching. Refresh your memory with some research and stay up to date on the most current education changes and developments in your area. Has your region's public education offering been changing this year or in the past few years? What have been the trends, and what is the model?
Although your answer is region specific, some general anticipated improvements could include:
- Making courses available to remote areas through e-learning.
- Offering cross-cultural interactions, and partnerships.
- Focusing more or less on the importance of test scores.
- Integrating more skills-based classes as a part of the national curriculum.
- Offering larger budgets for public schools.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"If I had the power to change anything within the public school system I would suggest a lesser focus on traditional testing and begin to incorporate methods for students who are less inclined to do well on a written test. New testing methods could include verbal testing or options that are more hands-on and technology-based."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"In our district, I know that there are major struggles with budget cuts. If I had the power to change this, I would. I fully believe that public schools should be given more in the way of supplies, and opportunities for the students who attend."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I firmly believe that the students in this district need further community-based opportunities and exposure. I would introduce a community outreach and volunteer program to the school district if given the opportunity. When we give back, everyone wins."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Discovery
17. How would your students describe your relationship with them, and your teaching style?
What You Need to Know
This question focuses more on your relationship with the students. The interviewer wants to know how you interact with your students and how they would talk about your teaching style if given the opportunity. Also, this focuses on what are your teaching methods and how well your students receive them. Are you accountable for your teaching style? Are you proud of your teaching methods, and confident that your students would speak highly of you? Think of two to three points which are especially liked by the students, something you do that has been very effective or helpful for students.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I would like for my future students to describe my teaching style as interactive, interesting, and modern. I want to incorporate pop-culture into my lessons so that kids are interested in the topics at hand, and ensure they can relate to the discussions that take place. I also aim to be a teacher that cares and is approachable, should a student be struggling with anything."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I think my students would comment on how my classes are fun and interactive. I never let anyone sleep or get away with not being engaged and I have a list of games up my sleeve to pull out whenever the class is getting dry. I also want to make sure my students are up and moving in my class. Sometimes we'll spend the afternoon enacting a Shakespearean sonnet or making posters for our Renaissance festival."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"Some ways that my students have described me, over the years, include the way that I can take a complicated concept and make it easy to understand. I am intuitive and can tell quickly when a student is struggling with a lesson. I am also highly involved in extra-curricular activities, so my students would likely say that I am a big supporter of their efforts, in all ways."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Diversity
18. How do you feel about inclusive classrooms?
What You Need to Know
Inclusive classrooms are a growing trend, intended to be beneficial for students with learning challenges. Have you had any experience with special education with children or children who may benefit from being in inclusive classrooms? Talk about your experience.
Here are some general benefits of inclusive classrooms:
1) Tailored teaching to target students with different learning preferences (i.e., visual aids like cubes or chips, and interactive whiteboards).
2) Allowing students to move around or use fidgets in the classroom.
3) Use of specialized services such as speech therapists or reading specialists.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I feel that inclusive classrooms should be a more widespread idea and embraced whenever possible. It's important for all students to have the opportunity to communicate with other students, at all learning levels."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Inclusive classrooms are wonderful, so long as everyone involved, regardless of their learning status, feels they are getting what they need from the classroom environment. How do you embrace inclusive classrooms in your school?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"For students at a lower learning level, it's important for them to be part of a community of learners who can act as mentors to them and encourage them never to give up. When it comes to my students at higher learning levels, its important that they work with students at lower levels who they can teach, and encourage. Diversity makes the world go round, and it's important that everyone learn from an early age to embrace that."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Diversity
19. What experience have you had with students from culturally diverse backgrounds?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to learn more about your level of experience with diversity in the classroom. Be open and honest with the interviewer sharing your experiences with students from culturally diverse backgrounds. The interviewer will use your response to understand better the training that should receive for their particular environment. Share your experiences working with students or children of different ethnic, religious, or socioeconomic backgrounds.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"During my student teaching internship program, I was placed at an inner-city school where most of the students came from lower-income homes. I noticed that the kids were taken care of well; however, many of these students needed to participate in the school's breakfast and lunch programs which truthfully, broke my heart. What I learned from this experience was the sensitivity that I needed to further cultivate for those who do not come from affluent families. I learned a lot about not taking my financial resources for granted, and to appreciate the small things like being able to run to Starbucks for a latte in the morning without worrying about the cost. I am very comfortable working in a diverse environment and welcome any exposure to the variety of situations that your school may bring."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I have been teaching students from various backgrounds ever since I started my career in education. One of the most memorable was when I worked with an Asian-American student whose parents had very high expectations of her performance. While I usually strive to inspire students to be more engaged in their studies, I spent a lot of hours after class talking to this particular student about stress and expectations management. She coped very well with the pressures and maintained a GPA that her parents were delighted to see. I can manage in diversity and, if you offer additional sensitivity training, I am happy to participate."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"In my years as a teacher, I have worked with students from nearly all ranges of socio-economic status, gender identity, culture, religion and more. I firmly believe that a school should be a soft landing place for students of all backgrounds, and right now - especially for students in the LGBTQ community. We need to support those around us, no matter how different they are from us. Could you share with me how your school actively embraces diversity?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Education
20. A good teacher is always learning. What is something you are learning about recently?
What You Need to Know
Show the interviewer that you continue to advance your learning and that you have a genuine interest in your working environment. What is something new that currently has your attention?
Here is a list of things you can talk about:
1) a new hobby or sport you're passionate about
2) a new country or place traveled
3) a new dish you cooked or tried
4) an insightful book or TV show
Show the interviewer that you're interesting, and always interested. Make some connections to your teaching and tell them how you've applied or plan to use what you've learned to reach your students, academically or otherwise.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I have been a University student for many years now and am always reading. To switch things up, I recently started subscribing to a few different podcasts. My favorite at the moment is 'French Your Way' which is led by a native French teacher who teaches the language to her podcast students. I love the variety of things that I can learn just from tuning in!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I recently watched a Netflix show called 13 Reasons Why which delves deeply and unabashedly into issues many teenagers deal with but are unwilling to discuss, such as suicide, and cyberbullying. One of the most interesting things I learned is that a teenager's hippocampus isn't yet fully developed, which is why they can interpret a negative remark or dirty look as lasting and eternal. It helps me to have more patience and empathy with my more problematic students as I realize there are plenty of issues beyond the surface that I might not be aware of."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I recently decided to take up more physical activity, since much of my day is sedentary. I have been going to yoga, spin, and boxing classes. I feel great and bring more energy to my classroom as of late."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experience
21. What is the most challenging experience you've faced as a teacher?
What You Need to Know
We all have challenges in our professions, and it is okay to talk about them! The key is that we do not allow these situations to get the best of us. Begin by sharing your most challenging experience as a teacher. Express that you did not let the case to get the best of you. Instead, you turned it into something positive. Mention what you learned from that situation, and explain what you would do in the future if you found yourself in a similar position again.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"The most challenging experience I have faced as a new teacher was with the faculty where I completed my internship. Unfortunately, it was very much a clique situation, and I did not gain the warm welcome that I was hoping. I made the most of the situation, kept my head high, soaking in all the knowledge that I could, and then moved on. What I learned is that I will always be warm and welcoming to the new teachers that come after me. I will do what I can to mentor and accept them, no matter how inexperienced they are."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"The most challenging experience for me in my teaching career was dealing with a parent who was always complaining about the things we did in the classroom. I was new to the school, and he wanted his daughter to be in the class of her former teacher. I called the parent for a sit-down and talked to him about the issues he had with me being the new teacher. I went over my credentials, complimented his child, and thanked him for his concern and involvement. In the end, he understood that his daughter will get new teachers now and then, and that was par-for-the-course in any school. He never complained after that, and we continue to have a great working relationship."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"The school I worked for went through some significant budget cuts last year. We were severely struggling even to get new pencil crayons in the classrooms, and books for the library. A few teachers and I put our heads together and created a plan for a community fundraiser and silent auction. The parents in the community became more involved than I could have imagined, and we raised $15,000 for our school. With that money, we were able to give our students some incredible experiences they otherwise would not have had. I learned that when you ask, people will help and that there are always resources to go around, you have to look a bit harder than usual sometimes."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experience
22. What was your most rewarding experience during your student teaching internship program?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to know which types of circumstances inspire you to be a fantastic teacher. Remember that time you walked away from a tutoring session feeling on top of the world? What made that experience so great? Perhaps a student had a significant knowledge breakthrough. Maybe you finally connected with a student you had been trying to build a relationship with for some time. Describe your most rewarding experience giving a little background on the situation and providing a solid explanation for why the experience was so satisfying.
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"When I first entered my student teaching internship program I honestly didn't realize how much of a mentor I would end up being to these young students. I knew that teaching was similar to coaching; however, I didn't expect anyone to look up to me. It was so rewarding to have these kids ask for life advice like, 'How do you study even when your friends want to hang out?' and 'How did you choose the University that you wanted to go to?'. This experience has opened my eyes to precisely the example that I need to be for my students all through my future teaching career."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"During my student teaching internship program at School ABC, I had been working with a student for a few weeks on algebra. He was having a hard time understanding the concept of letters in equations. I designed a funny poem to help him understand how to solve equations, and he had a breakthrough! The poem was the resource he needed, and he aced his next exam at school. It was so great seeing how excited he was to tell me about his exam score!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"The teacher that I completed my internship program under has been the biggest positive influence on my teaching career and is still a mentor to me. Meeting him was the most rewarding experience for which I could have asked. The semester that I spent watching him interact with his students, and elicit excitement into otherwise mundane lesson plans, was all the fire that I needed to start my career off right."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Leadership
23. What techniques do you use to accommodate different learning styles?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to know if you have a valid method for teaching students with varying learning styles. Not all students are suited to take a two-hour long exam. Visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners have different strengths and weaknesses. Think about your testing methods. Are your tests multiple choice, essay, or both? Do you have pop quizzes? Are there plenty of projects and research papers for students to have an opportunity to do well?
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Entry Level Example
"While earning my Bachelor's Degree in Education, I learned a few interesting techniques when it comes to learning styles. I think a lot of kids are hands-on learners, so I plan to introduce technology to those who learn best that way."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Experienced Example
"I have several different ways of accessing my students' progress. At the end of the term, they can choose to do one big assignment that's worth 30% of their grade. This assignment could either be an exam, a research paper, or an alternative project which requires students to write a proposal. This method allows for different types of students to choose a style that they can benefit the most from or enjoy doing the most."
Written by Rachelle Enns
2nd Experienced Example
"One thing I have learned, over my years of being a teacher, is that kids learn much better when they have the opportunity to move around and get rid of some of their pent up energy! I have created learning stations in my classroom where students have some 'free time' during the day to explore various stations and remain at the station where they feel they best learn. The stations they each choose also teaches me a great deal about their learning preferences. Some enjoy tactile-based tasks; some like to read - others, to write."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Management
24. What is your classroom management plan and what do you hope to accomplish with it?
What You Need to Know
Think about your teaching style and personality surrounding management. Are you more hands-on or hands-off as a teacher? How passionate and active are you? Talk to the interviewer about your classroom management abilities and what has worked best for you in the past. This question is a great time to ask the interviewer if this school has preferences on classroom management techniques used in the classroom:
Some good ideas for the classroom management:
1) Set management goals - rate students' performances as a class each day.
2) Never punish an entire class.
3) Show students it pays to behave - incentives usually work!
4) Establish routines.
5) Give students options.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"My classroom management plan includes giving students options when it comes to how they like and need to learn. I feel that if they feel they are active participants in their education, they will be more engaged in the process as a whole. Could you share with me some of your school's preferences when it comes to classroom management and style?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I'm a big proponent of keeping things predictable to manage my classroom. Before each class, I write down the day's schedule on the board so I can always go to the next thing when students are getting off-track and let them know what I intend to cover before class starts and ends. I also find this keeps me from being distracted by poorly behaved students, allowing me to stay on track with the lesson plan."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I feel that an overall air of encouragement and positivity is the best way to manage a class, I have worked closely with my students over the years to ensure that they feel a classroom is a safe place for them to present ideas, questions, and concepts. When a classroom runs as a cohesive group, I feel that everyone gives their best."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Operational
25. Describe your typical lesson.
What You Need to Know
The interviewer would like to know how you organize your lessons. Think back to your student teaching lesson plans or what has worked in your past experiences. Typically, a good class starts with a game, warm-up activity, or discussion about the topic of the lesson you will be teaching. Then, you might do homework check or get started on the day's lesson. For example, include a reading passage, discussion questions, and a short quiz at the end of the assessment. Make sure to include some way to access whether students have understood the material.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I think the best way to deliver a lesson is to include variety in the plan. I would like to build lesson plans that include quizzes, some physical movement, independent reading and writing time, as well as group discussions. Once I start working as a teacher, I plan to incorporate these teaching methods into most lessons."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"My typical lesson will include a mix of written and verbal tasks. I will usually start an English class by reading from our textbook, starting a class discussion, and then having the students partake in some independent writing time. This blend of all three tasks makes the class go by smoothly and keeps the students' attention. I can also more easily assess a student's progress based on their participation and their strengths based on how they respond to each teaching method."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"Over my ten years as an educator, I am confident that I have created excellent learning plans for students of all learning styles. I like to mix my lessons up so that nothing becomes stale or mundane. My lessons include incorporating outdoor time, field trips, guest speakers, group discussions, and more."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Organizational
26. What changes do you make to your lesson plans each year?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know whether you adapt your lesson plans annually or if you keep them the same. This question is one you'll want to prepare for thoroughly beforehand, as it'll be difficult to answer on the spot. Think about what hasn't worked for your classes and what you did to change that.
Areas of change could be:
- Testing methods
- Percentages required for tests
- The scope of projects
- Levels of group participation
- Assessments
- Changing the seating plan to fit learning styles
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"I think it's important to switch up lesson plans annually, or even when you see that something doesn't work well. It's important because students will often have shorter attention spans and they need to feel like most days offer something unique."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"Each year I make small tweaks to include the most news-worthy events as well as reflect the latest in entertainment and pop culture. Teens these days are celebrity obsessed, and what better way to keep their attention than to incorporate those interests. I also look for new apps to give them as learning resources, and those do change frequently."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"Each year I will make changes to my lesson plans that include more recent news-worthy topics for group discussions. I also change up my tests every year, so there is no risk of test sharing with the upcoming grades. Also, I like to change my seating plans a few times per year to encourage my students to make new connections with students they may not have talked to otherwise."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Technical
27. How do you use technology to improve your lessons?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know how tech-friendly you are and how you use technology to support your in-class lessons. YouTube is an excellent resource for short clips or explainer videos on the concepts you're teaching. Additionally, you can make use of PowerPoint to give your students bolded notes or integrate videos into your presentation. Even mentioning a simple app such as Quizlet that can help students with their vocabulary, or Prezi for students to make their presentations. If you don't have much experience using technology in your teaching, it's a good idea to do some research before your interview.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level Example
"Embracing technology is vital these days, and I believe that it must be incorporated heavily into the school curriculum so that we set our students up for success. Trained on how to use a Smart Board, which I believe you have in nearly every classroom, I am confident with that type of technology. Overall, I am very tech-savvy and am confident in my ability to prep my students for life in a tech-focused world."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"I firmly believe in the use of technology in the classroom. In my school, each student has their laptop, and they also use a variety of apps and websites to complete projects and conduct research. I am currently teaching a few tricks on PowerPoint as they will have a large multi-media project due at the end of this semester."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"Having seen technology change so much over the years, I am always looking for the next and greatest thing that I can introduce to my students. If kids do not have a strong tech-basis once they graduate, they will quickly fall behind in University and the world of gainful employment. For that reason, my current school asks that each student have a laptop and that we use particular programs and apps to get them used to the most common programs used in the workplace. I have fully embraced tech in the classroom."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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