8 answers
Elijah
Student
Amboy, Illinois
3
Questions
Updated
1293 views
What grade level to teach?
Hello, I'm a high school graduate who aspires to be a teacher. I've been on the fence about which grade level to teach, elementary, middle, or high school, I want to teach all three of them. Is it normal to be stuck? Is this a decision that will come to me as I go through college?
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8 answers
Melody Tharpe
Education - Teacher
185
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Melody’s Answer
Greetings Elijah,
The question of which grade level you will teach really does not start to come together until you actually get into a teaching situation. You will have time to learn which age or level of student you speak best to and get the most positive interaction. If you're really interested in a single subject and want to teach that subject , you probably will lean towards middle school and higher. If you're a generalist which means there are more than one subject that you're really interested, then Elementary might be a start for you and you might see that Upper Elementary is where you get to students that have a little bit more skill base and a little more interaction might work for you in terms of those subjects. Generally those who choose younger students have and should have the most patience to teach the character and social skills, not just subjects and so they tend to be very interested in the students learning how to interact within their world not a general subject matter. Explore age levels by volunteering to work in school or afterschool club settings.
The question of which grade level you will teach really does not start to come together until you actually get into a teaching situation. You will have time to learn which age or level of student you speak best to and get the most positive interaction. If you're really interested in a single subject and want to teach that subject , you probably will lean towards middle school and higher. If you're a generalist which means there are more than one subject that you're really interested, then Elementary might be a start for you and you might see that Upper Elementary is where you get to students that have a little bit more skill base and a little more interaction might work for you in terms of those subjects. Generally those who choose younger students have and should have the most patience to teach the character and social skills, not just subjects and so they tend to be very interested in the students learning how to interact within their world not a general subject matter. Explore age levels by volunteering to work in school or afterschool club settings.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Elijah
Bernadette Weller
Visual Arts Teacher
3
Answers
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Updated
Bernadette’s Answer
As you move through your schooling hopefully you will have the chance to work with several grade levels. Which will hopefully help you choose. I have been an art teacher for 41 years. I have taught K-12 over this time. Each grade level has their positive and “negatives”. Elementary has always been happy to see you but of course their skill level is elementary. You can build a strong program because you see them year after year. Middle or Junior high has higher skill, can again build a program, but they are very full of self and emotion. High school higher skill, less building a program if shared with other teachers, can be very much a teen! I have enjoyed all over the years and I think the variety has kept me in education longer.
Maybe volunteer programs that work with children and or teens
Bernadette recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Elijah!
If you are a 'devoted student server' you will be devoted to teaching all age groups!
You will have a pivotal role in the childrens' lives. The appropriate ages to teach shall become obvious to you with student teaching experience. Where you are at with training students will demonstrate to you the most appropriate ages of children that you relate best to. This happens when you observe the differing needs and requirements of the various student groups.
Instilling confidence is essential with the younger students. Never trivialize your functions as a teacher! You are a major influence in the child's learning and development. How you picture the Universe will influence their world views! Their teaching style too. Teach children to reason! Explain the reasoning process. Do not deny them extra devotion to their cause. With the Older Students the Process is More Empowerment!
There are there three basic genres of talents in students. Intellectual, Artistry, Emotional. Healing is all Three! Teach them to Recognize Learning Signs from The Universe.
GOD BLESS!
If you are a 'devoted student server' you will be devoted to teaching all age groups!
You will have a pivotal role in the childrens' lives. The appropriate ages to teach shall become obvious to you with student teaching experience. Where you are at with training students will demonstrate to you the most appropriate ages of children that you relate best to. This happens when you observe the differing needs and requirements of the various student groups.
Instilling confidence is essential with the younger students. Never trivialize your functions as a teacher! You are a major influence in the child's learning and development. How you picture the Universe will influence their world views! Their teaching style too. Teach children to reason! Explain the reasoning process. Do not deny them extra devotion to their cause. With the Older Students the Process is More Empowerment!
There are there three basic genres of talents in students. Intellectual, Artistry, Emotional. Healing is all Three! Teach them to Recognize Learning Signs from The Universe.
GOD BLESS!
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Elijah
Jenica Bock
Art teacher/ instructor
1
Answer
Marysville, Michigan
Updated
Jenica’s Answer
It is absolutely normal to feel this way. I have always wanted to teach at the college level myself. However, after teaching English overseas to children 3yrs old to upper -el (6th grade), students and business English to their parents I found myself wanting to be more focused.
Once returning to the USA I taught in a classical school environment much like what I grew up in - where children were kind, competitive in nature (academically, and in sports as well), had a thirst for knowledge and took interest in reading, writing cursive and being smart in math, history and sciences.
I found out over the years that I had more autonomy teaching at a charter or classical school.
Middle school only seemed to care about testing scores vs. the subject I was certified to teach.
High school seemed to respect my decisions and give me autonomy (getting students classes changed can be a challenge).
Lastly if you don't feel safe because of how a student is behaving or misbehaving in your classroom SAY SOMETHING and seek support!
Once returning to the USA I taught in a classical school environment much like what I grew up in - where children were kind, competitive in nature (academically, and in sports as well), had a thirst for knowledge and took interest in reading, writing cursive and being smart in math, history and sciences.
I found out over the years that I had more autonomy teaching at a charter or classical school.
Middle school only seemed to care about testing scores vs. the subject I was certified to teach.
High school seemed to respect my decisions and give me autonomy (getting students classes changed can be a challenge).
Lastly if you don't feel safe because of how a student is behaving or misbehaving in your classroom SAY SOMETHING and seek support!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Elijah
Deborah Meenan
School counselor, middle school teacher
5
Answers
Rockaway Township, NJ
Updated
Deborah’s Answer
Hello! It's great that you're asking this question. It's perfectly normal to explore your options. Try gaining experience at different levels to see what you enjoy most. You can start substitute teaching in many states once you have 60 college credits. Being a summer camp counselor is another great way to work with different age groups. Volunteering at a local church or YMCA can also give you valuable experience. Wishing you the best on your journey!
Mike S.
Technical Writer
22
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Mike’s Answer
Hi Elija,
First of all: Thank you for your interest in teaching. This is the most important profession because you are helping to create the future for each of the students and the people related to them. This is also a very challenging profession that requires excellent interpersonal skills. We need more people like you!
My teaching experience is in professional adult situations, so I am not the absolute best person to answer your question, but I will give you some of my thoughts anyway.
Choosing a career path is always difficult. It is such an important decision, and it will have a big impact on your own life as well as the lives of the students.
Each level of education plays a crucial role in a child's development.
Elementary School teachers are laying the foundation. You need to be able to work with and connect with young children. You will have a big impact on their development and their future success in school.
Middle School teachers are helping students transition from childhood to adolescence both academically and emotionally. At this stage, you still have a big impact on the path their life will take.
High School teachers are preparing students to enter adulthood, either in the workforce or as college students. This is still a critical time in their development. The problems that students have at this stage are more difficult. As you help the students, you will be learning a lot from them also.
So, you need to decide which career will be most rewarding for you. It will depend on how well you work with people in the various stages of their growth and development. This is something only you can answer.
I hope this helps you in some way.
Good Luck and Best Wishes for Success.
- Mike
First of all: Thank you for your interest in teaching. This is the most important profession because you are helping to create the future for each of the students and the people related to them. This is also a very challenging profession that requires excellent interpersonal skills. We need more people like you!
My teaching experience is in professional adult situations, so I am not the absolute best person to answer your question, but I will give you some of my thoughts anyway.
Choosing a career path is always difficult. It is such an important decision, and it will have a big impact on your own life as well as the lives of the students.
Each level of education plays a crucial role in a child's development.
Elementary School teachers are laying the foundation. You need to be able to work with and connect with young children. You will have a big impact on their development and their future success in school.
Middle School teachers are helping students transition from childhood to adolescence both academically and emotionally. At this stage, you still have a big impact on the path their life will take.
High School teachers are preparing students to enter adulthood, either in the workforce or as college students. This is still a critical time in their development. The problems that students have at this stage are more difficult. As you help the students, you will be learning a lot from them also.
So, you need to decide which career will be most rewarding for you. It will depend on how well you work with people in the various stages of their growth and development. This is something only you can answer.
I hope this helps you in some way.
Good Luck and Best Wishes for Success.
- Mike
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Elijah
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Elijah. It is very normal to feel unsure about which grade level you want to teach. Many people who are just starting their journey in education feel the same way. Teaching is a big responsibility, and each age group has its own unique challenges and rewards. You do not need to have everything figured out right now. What matters most is that you are excited about becoming a teacher and making a difference in students' lives.
Elementary school teachers often get to build strong foundations in reading, writing, and math. They also play a big role in shaping children's love for learning at an early age. Middle school teachers, on the other hand, guide students during a time when they are growing and changing quickly. These students need role models who can encourage them and help them build confidence. High school teachers usually focus more on specific subjects, and they prepare students for college, careers, and life after graduation. Each level is important in its own way.
As you go through college and gain more classroom experience, you will get a clearer idea of which grade level feels right for you. Education programs often give you the chance to observe and even teach in different settings. This experience will help you discover where your strengths and interests match best. For now, it is perfectly fine to be open to all possibilities. Teaching is a journey, and the decision about grade level does not have to be made immediately. With time, practice, and guidance from mentors, you will find the grade level that feels like home for you. All the best.
Elementary school teachers often get to build strong foundations in reading, writing, and math. They also play a big role in shaping children's love for learning at an early age. Middle school teachers, on the other hand, guide students during a time when they are growing and changing quickly. These students need role models who can encourage them and help them build confidence. High school teachers usually focus more on specific subjects, and they prepare students for college, careers, and life after graduation. Each level is important in its own way.
As you go through college and gain more classroom experience, you will get a clearer idea of which grade level feels right for you. Education programs often give you the chance to observe and even teach in different settings. This experience will help you discover where your strengths and interests match best. For now, it is perfectly fine to be open to all possibilities. Teaching is a journey, and the decision about grade level does not have to be made immediately. With time, practice, and guidance from mentors, you will find the grade level that feels like home for you. All the best.
Jessica Lanham
Training/Instructional Design
13
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Hi there! First off—yes, it’s completely normal to feel stuck when deciding which grade level to teach. Many future educators wrestle with this, especially when they’re passionate about teaching in general and can see themselves making a difference at every level.
The good news is that you don’t have to decide right away. As you go through college, especially if you’re in an education program, you’ll likely have opportunities to observe and work in classrooms across different grade levels. These experiences often help you discover where your strengths and passions align best. Some people fall in love with the energy of younger kids, while others thrive on the deeper discussions and independence of older students.
Also, keep in mind that your teaching license and degree can sometimes allow flexibility. For example, if you major in elementary education, you might be certified to teach K–6, but with additional coursework or endorsements, you could expand to middle or high school later on.
So yes—this decision can absolutely come to you as you explore more, and it’s okay to stay open-minded for now. You’re already asking thoughtful questions, which is a great sign you’re on the right path.
The good news is that you don’t have to decide right away. As you go through college, especially if you’re in an education program, you’ll likely have opportunities to observe and work in classrooms across different grade levels. These experiences often help you discover where your strengths and passions align best. Some people fall in love with the energy of younger kids, while others thrive on the deeper discussions and independence of older students.
Also, keep in mind that your teaching license and degree can sometimes allow flexibility. For example, if you major in elementary education, you might be certified to teach K–6, but with additional coursework or endorsements, you could expand to middle or high school later on.
So yes—this decision can absolutely come to you as you explore more, and it’s okay to stay open-minded for now. You’re already asking thoughtful questions, which is a great sign you’re on the right path.