2 answers
Miley
Student
Antwerp, Ohio
2
Questions
Asked
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Why did you decide to be a Math Teacher?
I'm a high school student who is curious about what route I should take to become a Math Teacher and what grade levels I should teach.
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2 answers
Grant Conrad
Risk & Financial Advisory Analyst
25
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Grant’s Answer
Hi Miley!
Deciding to become a Math teacher can be driven by a variety of factors. Some people have a natural passion for mathematics and enjoy the challenge of solving complex problems. Others may be inspired by a desire to help students overcome their fear of math and see its practical applications in everyday life. Teaching, in general, is a profession that allows you to make a lasting impact on a young person's life, which can be very rewarding.
If you're considering becoming a Math teacher, here are some steps to guide you:
1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree: First, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree at college. Majoring in mathematics or a related field is generally the best choice, but you can also choose to major in education with a focus on mathematics.
2. Complete a Teacher Education Program: Most states require teachers to complete a teacher education program. These programs, which can be done concurrently with your bachelor's degree or after, include courses in education theory and practice, as well as student teaching experiences.
3. Get Certified or Licensed: Every state requires public school teachers to be licensed or certified in the grade level they will teach. Requirements vary by state but typically include passing a teacher certification test and a background check.
4. Gain Experience: Consider volunteering, tutoring, or working as a teacher's aide to gain experience working with students.
In terms of what grade levels to teach, it really depends on your personal preference and where you feel your skills would be best used. Elementary school teachers often teach all subjects, including math, while middle and high school teachers typically specialize in one subject. Teaching younger students might involve more basic math and more general teaching duties, while teaching older students allows you to focus more on specific areas of mathematics.
Remember, teaching is more than just sharing your knowledge; it's about inspiring students to learn and helping them develop critical thinking skills. As a Math teacher, you have the opportunity to help students see the beauty and practicality of math, which can be a very rewarding experience.
I hope this helps!
Deciding to become a Math teacher can be driven by a variety of factors. Some people have a natural passion for mathematics and enjoy the challenge of solving complex problems. Others may be inspired by a desire to help students overcome their fear of math and see its practical applications in everyday life. Teaching, in general, is a profession that allows you to make a lasting impact on a young person's life, which can be very rewarding.
If you're considering becoming a Math teacher, here are some steps to guide you:
1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree: First, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree at college. Majoring in mathematics or a related field is generally the best choice, but you can also choose to major in education with a focus on mathematics.
2. Complete a Teacher Education Program: Most states require teachers to complete a teacher education program. These programs, which can be done concurrently with your bachelor's degree or after, include courses in education theory and practice, as well as student teaching experiences.
3. Get Certified or Licensed: Every state requires public school teachers to be licensed or certified in the grade level they will teach. Requirements vary by state but typically include passing a teacher certification test and a background check.
4. Gain Experience: Consider volunteering, tutoring, or working as a teacher's aide to gain experience working with students.
In terms of what grade levels to teach, it really depends on your personal preference and where you feel your skills would be best used. Elementary school teachers often teach all subjects, including math, while middle and high school teachers typically specialize in one subject. Teaching younger students might involve more basic math and more general teaching duties, while teaching older students allows you to focus more on specific areas of mathematics.
Remember, teaching is more than just sharing your knowledge; it's about inspiring students to learn and helping them develop critical thinking skills. As a Math teacher, you have the opportunity to help students see the beauty and practicality of math, which can be a very rewarding experience.
I hope this helps!
Erica Miller
Executive Assistant
6
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Erica’s Answer
Hello Miley. I personally was not a math teacher, but my mother was for over 50 years! But, living as the daughter of a super math teacher for so long, I can give some advice on what I know and experienced.
Your career path and grade level will depend on the specific area you are interested in most. My mother specifically taught 8th grade algebra. She received her undergraduate degree in math education and also her masters degree. Attaining at least your undergraduate degree would be very helpful.
I can attest to the fact that the reason my mother became a math teacher was because she had a passion for mathematics, a desire to help youth learn and share her knowledge, a desire to help her community, and a desire to positively affect the lives of others.
If you have the opportunity to shadow any math professionals in your area, I would definitely reach out to them at local schools and colleges. All the best!
Your career path and grade level will depend on the specific area you are interested in most. My mother specifically taught 8th grade algebra. She received her undergraduate degree in math education and also her masters degree. Attaining at least your undergraduate degree would be very helpful.
I can attest to the fact that the reason my mother became a math teacher was because she had a passion for mathematics, a desire to help youth learn and share her knowledge, a desire to help her community, and a desire to positively affect the lives of others.
If you have the opportunity to shadow any math professionals in your area, I would definitely reach out to them at local schools and colleges. All the best!