10 answers
Addison
Student
Burlington, Wisconsin
1
Question
Asked
374 views
What classes ?
What classes in high school are the best for being interested in going to a four year college to major in elementary education and minor in theater/ acting.
Login to comment
10 answers
Erin Weeks
Customer Service Representative
9
Answers
Clare, Michigan
Updated
Erin’s Answer
Something that I think really helped me as a college student was dual enrolling. Through my high school's partnership with a local community college, I was able to take college prerequisites for free, and they counted as both high school and college credit. Not only did it save me money down the road once I was actually in college, but it also gave me a good idea of how college courses operated. Many states have programs where the college credits that you obtain during high school will transfer to most if not all colleges in the state. I would 100% recommend looking into whether or not your high school offers this as an option, as it will save you time and money in the long run, as well as help you build strong multitasking, time-management, and communication skills. Also, the quicker you get your prerequisites finished, the quicker you can focus on classes within your chosen major.
Alex Turney
Ecommerce / Product Management
27
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Hi Addison,
Good question, there a number of ways to think about this and there is no one right answer for you.
In my experience and through talking with my friends who have also been through the process, I think it is absolutely most important in high school to do what interests you most. Why is that? Most people who are applying to college to a particular major are all thinking the same thing what are the series of steps that are going to most enable me to get into my top choice school in the best. By doing what interests YOU most, the higher chance you have of finding something that fuels beyond the normal person applying to your major. I did what looks best on paper and it worked out fine, but I wish I would have focused on what made me unique and focused on that thing.
That being said, take all your fundamental courses. English, Math, Science, History, because those are the core classes that anyone who wants to go into education should know! However, when it comes to your extra classes that you get to choose and the extra clubs you get to choose, my advice would be to follow what sounds most fun and interesting. That's going to make you actually want to participate in them and do more of them outside of school. That's going to make you a more unique candidate when applying to college vs doing the same clubs / courses everyone does just to look good on paper.
Good question, there a number of ways to think about this and there is no one right answer for you.
In my experience and through talking with my friends who have also been through the process, I think it is absolutely most important in high school to do what interests you most. Why is that? Most people who are applying to college to a particular major are all thinking the same thing what are the series of steps that are going to most enable me to get into my top choice school in the best. By doing what interests YOU most, the higher chance you have of finding something that fuels beyond the normal person applying to your major. I did what looks best on paper and it worked out fine, but I wish I would have focused on what made me unique and focused on that thing.
That being said, take all your fundamental courses. English, Math, Science, History, because those are the core classes that anyone who wants to go into education should know! However, when it comes to your extra classes that you get to choose and the extra clubs you get to choose, my advice would be to follow what sounds most fun and interesting. That's going to make you actually want to participate in them and do more of them outside of school. That's going to make you a more unique candidate when applying to college vs doing the same clubs / courses everyone does just to look good on paper.
Katherine L
45
Answers
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hey Addison! It's crucial to wisely select your classes. To establish a solid academic base, concentrate on fundamental subjects like English and math. Make sure to complete at least three years of math, as this is a common requirement for many colleges. Classes in science, social studies, and history will aid in cultivating your critical thinking abilities and broadening your worldview.
Given your enthusiasm for theater and acting, sign up for drama or theater arts classes to hone your acting prowess. Consider joining speech and debate activities or public speaking classes to enhance your communication skills, a vital asset in both teaching and acting. Courses in psychology or sociology can offer valuable understanding of human behavior, useful for both elementary education and character portrayal in acting.
Remember to tap into your artistic side by taking art or music classes, as these can boost your creativity and self-expression. To gain real-world experience, participate in theater productions, drama clubs, or volunteer at local elementary schools. This direct experience will show your commitment to your chosen field and make your college application more attractive. Lastly, don't forget to have fun during your high school journey and chase your passions while focusing on your academic and extracurricular objectives. Students who demonstrate a well-rounded personality and active community involvement often stand out to college admissions committees.
Given your enthusiasm for theater and acting, sign up for drama or theater arts classes to hone your acting prowess. Consider joining speech and debate activities or public speaking classes to enhance your communication skills, a vital asset in both teaching and acting. Courses in psychology or sociology can offer valuable understanding of human behavior, useful for both elementary education and character portrayal in acting.
Remember to tap into your artistic side by taking art or music classes, as these can boost your creativity and self-expression. To gain real-world experience, participate in theater productions, drama clubs, or volunteer at local elementary schools. This direct experience will show your commitment to your chosen field and make your college application more attractive. Lastly, don't forget to have fun during your high school journey and chase your passions while focusing on your academic and extracurricular objectives. Students who demonstrate a well-rounded personality and active community involvement often stand out to college admissions committees.
Elizabeth Bird
Chef
3
Answers
Perrysville, Ohio
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
In college you have to take the basics
English, foreign language, science, math.
In high school you need the same classes, make sure you understand and do well in these classes in high school. If English and math are not your strong points get a tutor in HS, it will help you immensely in college.
English, foreign language, science, math.
In high school you need the same classes, make sure you understand and do well in these classes in high school. If English and math are not your strong points get a tutor in HS, it will help you immensely in college.
Taj Kachaamy, PhD
Lecture
26
Answers
El Cajon, California
Updated
Taj’s Answer
Hello,
Art classes, drama classes, are good. Because you are already registered in main academic classes.
Art classes, drama classes, are good. Because you are already registered in main academic classes.
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
202
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Great question, Addison, and kudos for thinking ahead! Concentrate on fulfilling all the necessary prerequisites to graduate from high school. This is true whether you're in Connecticut, Wisconsin, or anywhere else.
While there may not be particular courses you need to take in high school to pursue a career in elementary education, gaining hands-on experience with children can be incredibly beneficial. This could be through volunteering at a summer camp or an after-school program. It not only provides valuable experience but also showcases your dedication. If your school offers psychology, consider taking it. It could offer useful insights, but it's not a must.
The same goes for a minor in theater/acting. Get involved in your school's theater program and take theater classes if they're available. Even if you don't land a role, working behind the scenes can offer a comprehensive understanding of how everything fits together. Remember, you might need to audition to get into the program at your chosen college or university, so getting comfortable with auditions now can be a big help.
Keep up the good work and best of luck to you!
While there may not be particular courses you need to take in high school to pursue a career in elementary education, gaining hands-on experience with children can be incredibly beneficial. This could be through volunteering at a summer camp or an after-school program. It not only provides valuable experience but also showcases your dedication. If your school offers psychology, consider taking it. It could offer useful insights, but it's not a must.
The same goes for a minor in theater/acting. Get involved in your school's theater program and take theater classes if they're available. Even if you don't land a role, working behind the scenes can offer a comprehensive understanding of how everything fits together. Remember, you might need to audition to get into the program at your chosen college or university, so getting comfortable with auditions now can be a big help.
Keep up the good work and best of luck to you!
Pixie Princess
Travel Agent Guest Relations Guest Services
5
Answers
Long Beach, California
Updated
Pixie’s Answer
Hi Addison,
Great question and the best answer I would give is to reach out to your guidance counselor and or reach the college counselor to have them assist you with the best educational path possible. Any one of us could give you what "WE" think is best. But ultimately it's going to be what's deemed by the school you seek admission too.
Great question and the best answer I would give is to reach out to your guidance counselor and or reach the college counselor to have them assist you with the best educational path possible. Any one of us could give you what "WE" think is best. But ultimately it's going to be what's deemed by the school you seek admission too.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
To prepare for a four-year college majoring in elementary education with a minor in theater or acting, it's important to choose a well-rounded set of high school classes. Here are some recommended courses:
1. **English and Literature:** Strong communication skills are vital for teaching and acting. Take honors or advanced English classes to improve your writing and speaking abilities.
2. **Mathematics:** Elementary education often involves teaching basic math concepts. Take math courses relevant to your grade level and consider advanced math if you're comfortable with it.
3. **Science:** Elementary school teachers sometimes teach science, so taking courses in biology, chemistry, or physics can be beneficial. It's also an opportunity to explore science-related theater or acting projects.
4. **History and Social Studies:** Understanding history and society is important for teaching young students. These subjects can also provide inspiration for theater and acting roles.
5. **Foreign Languages:** Learning a second language can be advantageous for both teaching and acting, as it opens up opportunities for diverse roles and helps with communication skills.
6. **Theater or Drama:** If your high school offers theater or drama classes, definitely enroll in them. These classes will give you hands-on experience in acting and stage production.
7. **Visual Arts:** Classes in visual arts can enhance your creativity and artistic skills, which can be valuable for both theater and elementary education.
8. **Public Speaking or Debate:** These courses can improve your confidence in speaking in front of others, a crucial skill for both teaching and acting.
9. **Psychology or Child Development:** Learning about child psychology and development can provide insights into how to work effectively with young students.
10. **Music:** If you have an interest in music, consider taking music classes or joining a choir. Musical abilities can be an asset in both teaching and theater.
11. **Physical Education:** Staying physically active is important for overall well-being and can help with stamina in theater and acting roles.
12. **Extracurricular Activities:** Joining theater clubs, drama productions, or education-related extracurricular activities can provide practical experience and demonstrate your commitment to your interests.
Remember to maintain a strong GPA and participate in volunteer or community service opportunities related to teaching or acting, as these experiences can strengthen your college application. Additionally, seek guidance from your high school counselor to ensure you're on the right track to meet college admission requirements. Your passion for elementary education and theater will serve as a strong foundation for your future college journey.
1. **English and Literature:** Strong communication skills are vital for teaching and acting. Take honors or advanced English classes to improve your writing and speaking abilities.
2. **Mathematics:** Elementary education often involves teaching basic math concepts. Take math courses relevant to your grade level and consider advanced math if you're comfortable with it.
3. **Science:** Elementary school teachers sometimes teach science, so taking courses in biology, chemistry, or physics can be beneficial. It's also an opportunity to explore science-related theater or acting projects.
4. **History and Social Studies:** Understanding history and society is important for teaching young students. These subjects can also provide inspiration for theater and acting roles.
5. **Foreign Languages:** Learning a second language can be advantageous for both teaching and acting, as it opens up opportunities for diverse roles and helps with communication skills.
6. **Theater or Drama:** If your high school offers theater or drama classes, definitely enroll in them. These classes will give you hands-on experience in acting and stage production.
7. **Visual Arts:** Classes in visual arts can enhance your creativity and artistic skills, which can be valuable for both theater and elementary education.
8. **Public Speaking or Debate:** These courses can improve your confidence in speaking in front of others, a crucial skill for both teaching and acting.
9. **Psychology or Child Development:** Learning about child psychology and development can provide insights into how to work effectively with young students.
10. **Music:** If you have an interest in music, consider taking music classes or joining a choir. Musical abilities can be an asset in both teaching and theater.
11. **Physical Education:** Staying physically active is important for overall well-being and can help with stamina in theater and acting roles.
12. **Extracurricular Activities:** Joining theater clubs, drama productions, or education-related extracurricular activities can provide practical experience and demonstrate your commitment to your interests.
Remember to maintain a strong GPA and participate in volunteer or community service opportunities related to teaching or acting, as these experiences can strengthen your college application. Additionally, seek guidance from your high school counselor to ensure you're on the right track to meet college admission requirements. Your passion for elementary education and theater will serve as a strong foundation for your future college journey.
Randi Felshaw
Musician/Composer
2
Answers
Fairview, UT
Updated
Randi’s Answer
When you are looking for what academic path to take in high school (secondary school) in order to be ready for University, you need to stick with the well rounded curriculum most schools offer. You will focus on a college preparatory program.
Many schools offer arts programs that you can take as electives. Take classes that focus on drama/theatre and visual arts. If your school has a drama program that produces plays/musicals, get involved in that.
Outside of school, look for opportunities to work in theatre...community based or regional. This will give you more experience in theatre which will always be beneficial. Any extracurricular activities will boost your college application.
Another important thing to do is work in a child care setting. This will give you the experience of working with children.
Both fields of study are admirable and needed in society. Do some research and job shadowing. This will give you more information to decide whether or not you are up to the demands of working as a teacher. If you minor in theatre, consider the path of becoming a drama teacher.
Many schools offer arts programs that you can take as electives. Take classes that focus on drama/theatre and visual arts. If your school has a drama program that produces plays/musicals, get involved in that.
Outside of school, look for opportunities to work in theatre...community based or regional. This will give you more experience in theatre which will always be beneficial. Any extracurricular activities will boost your college application.
Another important thing to do is work in a child care setting. This will give you the experience of working with children.
Both fields of study are admirable and needed in society. Do some research and job shadowing. This will give you more information to decide whether or not you are up to the demands of working as a teacher. If you minor in theatre, consider the path of becoming a drama teacher.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3773
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Addison,
Guidance on High School Courses for a Future in Elementary Education Major and Theater/Acting Minor
To successfully navigate a college major in elementary education and a minor in theater/acting, it's crucial to select high school classes that lay a robust foundation in these areas. Here's a list of classes that can help you gear up for this educational journey:
1. English and Literature: Opt for advanced English and literature classes to boost your reading, writing, and analytical thinking abilities, which are key to both teaching and theater/acting.
2. Psychology: Courses in psychology can deepen your understanding of human behavior and development, a vital aspect for teachers and actors tasked with portraying a variety of characters convincingly.
3. Performing Arts/Theater: Join performing arts or theater classes to hone your acting prowess, stage presence, and self-assurance. These classes can also expose you to different facets of theater production.
4. Education-related Courses: If possible, take classes related to education or child development. These courses can offer a sneak peek into the education sector and help you ascertain if it aligns with your career aspirations.
5. Public Speaking: Public speaking classes can enhance your communication skills, a must-have for teaching and acting. These classes can help you articulate ideas lucidly and confidently in front of an audience.
6. Fine Arts/Music: Enroll in fine arts or music classes to nurture creativity, artistic expression, and a love for the arts, all of which are advantageous for budding educators and actors.
7. Drama Club/Extracurricular Activities: Engaging in drama club or other theater-related extracurricular activities can offer practical experience in acting, directing, or stage management.
Choosing a mix of these classes and activities in high school can equip you with a diverse skill set that will set you up for success in a college major in elementary education and a minor in theater/acting.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
National Association for Music Education (NAfME): NAfME is a trusted organization that offers resources and guidance for music educators and students keen on music-related careers. Their insights on the value of music education could have been referenced to underscore the benefits of taking fine arts/music classes in high school.
American Alliance for Theatre & Education (AATE): AATE is a premier association committed to advancing theater education and advocating for the worth of theater arts in schools. Their expertise could have been leveraged to stress the importance of theater-related courses and extracurricular activities for students interested in pursuing acting/theater at the college level.
National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE): NCTE is a renowned organization dedicated to enhancing English language arts education at all levels. Their recommendations on the relevance of English and literature courses could have been used to reinforce the importance of these subjects for students aiming to major in elementary education with a minor in theater/acting.
These sources were selected for their credibility in the respective fields of music education, theater arts education, and English language arts education, offering dependable information to back the recommendations provided in response to the question.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Guidance on High School Courses for a Future in Elementary Education Major and Theater/Acting Minor
To successfully navigate a college major in elementary education and a minor in theater/acting, it's crucial to select high school classes that lay a robust foundation in these areas. Here's a list of classes that can help you gear up for this educational journey:
1. English and Literature: Opt for advanced English and literature classes to boost your reading, writing, and analytical thinking abilities, which are key to both teaching and theater/acting.
2. Psychology: Courses in psychology can deepen your understanding of human behavior and development, a vital aspect for teachers and actors tasked with portraying a variety of characters convincingly.
3. Performing Arts/Theater: Join performing arts or theater classes to hone your acting prowess, stage presence, and self-assurance. These classes can also expose you to different facets of theater production.
4. Education-related Courses: If possible, take classes related to education or child development. These courses can offer a sneak peek into the education sector and help you ascertain if it aligns with your career aspirations.
5. Public Speaking: Public speaking classes can enhance your communication skills, a must-have for teaching and acting. These classes can help you articulate ideas lucidly and confidently in front of an audience.
6. Fine Arts/Music: Enroll in fine arts or music classes to nurture creativity, artistic expression, and a love for the arts, all of which are advantageous for budding educators and actors.
7. Drama Club/Extracurricular Activities: Engaging in drama club or other theater-related extracurricular activities can offer practical experience in acting, directing, or stage management.
Choosing a mix of these classes and activities in high school can equip you with a diverse skill set that will set you up for success in a college major in elementary education and a minor in theater/acting.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
National Association for Music Education (NAfME): NAfME is a trusted organization that offers resources and guidance for music educators and students keen on music-related careers. Their insights on the value of music education could have been referenced to underscore the benefits of taking fine arts/music classes in high school.
American Alliance for Theatre & Education (AATE): AATE is a premier association committed to advancing theater education and advocating for the worth of theater arts in schools. Their expertise could have been leveraged to stress the importance of theater-related courses and extracurricular activities for students interested in pursuing acting/theater at the college level.
National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE): NCTE is a renowned organization dedicated to enhancing English language arts education at all levels. Their recommendations on the relevance of English and literature courses could have been used to reinforce the importance of these subjects for students aiming to major in elementary education with a minor in theater/acting.
These sources were selected for their credibility in the respective fields of music education, theater arts education, and English language arts education, offering dependable information to back the recommendations provided in response to the question.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.