teacher interview essay example

Every other Tuesday, you’ll get actionable tips to land your dream job.  Subscribe

• Uncategorized

40+ Common Teacher Interview Questions (with Example Answers)

Teacher interviews are a whole new level — apart from academic qualifications, you need to show passion and skills to prove that you can handle this impactful role well.

I know this because I spent the first 10 years of my career teaching, and I’m here to help you get better at interviews, fast.

You need to come across as trustworthy and student-focused, but also show you understand the school culture and values and that you’ll contribute to their success. All that with a single goal — get to the demo lesson and show them how it’s done.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this guide:

• The exact requirements of the job and what to highlight in the interview
• A list of 40+ most common teacher interview questions
• Ten sample answers to make your own
• Five bonus tips to nail the interview

Looking for only a list of common interview questions for teachers? Here are the top 10 questions to expect:

Tell me about yourself.

What inspired you to become a teacher, how do you engage students who seem disinterested, what teaching methods do you prefer and why, describe a challenging teaching experience and how you handled it., tell me about a successful teaching strategy you implemented..

• Discuss a situation where you collaborated with other teachers and administrators.

How would you handle a situation where a student is consistently disruptive?

Imagine your students performed poorly on a test you believed they were well-prepared for. what would you do, if a parent disagrees with your teaching style, how would you handle it.

Want to get an offer after every interview? Our interview preparation tool will guide you through all the questions you can expect, let you record and analyze your answers, and provide instant AI feedback. You’ll know exactly what to improve to turn your next interview into a job.

Don’t waste days compiling overused interview techniques. Get original answers to every single question you could expect.

Understanding the Requirements of a Teacher’s Job

In your interview, you’ll need to show your skills in classroom management, lesson planning and preparation, assessments, committee and team meetings, admin work, and professional development.

There are three technical skill areas you want to focus on:

• Subject matter expertise . Show that you have a strong understanding of the subjects you’ll be teaching and that you can convey the knowledge well.
• Pedagogical skills . You’ll get questions about lesson planning, teaching strategies, assessment methods, and classroom management.
• Technical proficiency . They need to see you’re comfortable using new technologies and tools.

You also need to show you have the relevant soft skills like strong verbal and written communication, empathy, and patience. Don’t forget problem-solving — 9 times out of 10, the committee will ask you about dealing with academic and behavioral problems in the classroom.

What’s the teacher hiring process timeline like?

• A typical teacher interview takes place face-to-face, at the school you’re applying to.
• You could meet a principal, superintendent, counselor, another teacher, or have a panel interview with 3–4 school members.
• Apart from the typical steps in the interview process such as the resume review and interview, you may be required to do a demo lesson with a group of students or a simulated lesson with the interview panel.
• There’s also a mandatory background check.

Need some tips on writing your teacher resume? Get them here: Teacher Resume Examples + Writing Guide .

Common Teacher Interview Questions and Sample Answers

Below are the most common interview questions for teachers, with example answers you can use as inspiration, and tips on what to highlight in your answers.

Basic Interview Questions for Teachers

Sample answer:

Tips on how to answer:

• Don’t forget about this question! “ Tell me about yourself ” is a common opener for any job interview.
• If they phrase it as “Walk me through your resume”, don’t take it literally and repeat what they already know.
• Use the Present-Past-Future formula to structure your answer. Start by explaining your current role, then rewind and briefly mention your experiences that helped you get to where you are now. Then explain how this role and this school align with your plans and wishes.
• Focus on aspects directly linked to teaching and education, and avoid overly personal details.

My love of storytelling and teachers who made a difference. Growing up, literature provided me with a sense of connection, empathy, and understanding of the world around me, very often in situations when nobody else could.  I was lucky to have exceptional literature teachers throughout my academic journey. Their influence showed me the profound impact a passionate and dedicated teacher can have on students’ lives.

Ultimately, it was the desire to share my love of literature with young people, show them how literature can raise important questions, help practice critical thinking and also provide a sense of comfort in difficult times. I also love it that I can provide a sense of direction to students, as well as support them to find their own voice through writing and analysis.

• Be genuine and share a heartfelt story about what inspired you to choose a teaching career.
• Connect your motivation to the impact on students’ lives.
• Show you can personalize the approach to meet the needs of the particular student.
• Show that, whatever your tactic, you always have the end goal in mind — student success.
• If possible, relate methods to positive outcomes and student engagement.
• Show you can guide them beyond the academic results/achievements.

Although you’ll face more specific interview questions about working with students or designing a lesson plan, make sure you’re prepared to answer these other interview “classics”:

• Why should we hire you?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Why do you want to work here?
• Why did you leave your last job?
• What motivates you?

Behavioral Interview Questions for Teachers

Behavioral questions typically start with “Describe a time when…” or “Tell me about a…”, followed by a past situation. To answer them well, you need to be ready to recount a relevant similar experience from your past.

The STAR formula will help you organize your thoughts into concise stories that highlight your skills. But more on this approach later.

Here are the behavioral questions that often come up in teacher interviews:

A few years back, I had a student who was clearly bright, but just couldn’t seem to get engaged in class. He was disruptive, refused to participate, and distracted everyone else. Detentions didn’t work, so I knew I had to try a different approach. I sat down with him one-on-one, and it turns out he was really frustrated with the curriculum, and thought the lessons were quite outdated. So I took what he told me and used it to adjust my approach. I adapted the lessons, brought in more recent examples, put him in charge of some projects, and noticed he did well when given extra responsibility. I started assigning him small leadership roles in group projects, and that really made a difference.

Over time, he became way more involved in class, his behavior improved dramatically, and his grades got a lot better, too. He even started mentoring younger students, which was awesome to see. This whole experience was a big lesson for me. It taught me just how important it is to empathize with your students and understand what’s really going on with them, so you can tailor your teaching to their individual needs.

Tips on how to answer: 

• Focus on the positive outcomes of your actions. Explain the positive change in the student’s behavior, engagement, or academic performance.
• Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you adapted your teaching methods to meet the individual needs of the student.
• Emphasize the importance of building relationships.

I love incorporating simulations and role-playing activities into my history classes. For instance, during a unit on the American Revolution, my students took on the roles of key figures like colonists, British loyalists, and soldiers. They researched their assigned roles, debated their perspectives, and even recreated key events like the Boston Tea Party. The level of engagement was off the charts. The kids were completely immersed in the experience. They weren’t just passively absorbing information, but actively participating in a history lesson. They were arguing, compromising, and making decisions based on their understanding of the events and the motivations of their characters.

The impact on their learning was incredible. They developed a much deeper understanding of the causes and consequences of the American Revolution, as well as the perspectives of different groups involved. The goal of the lesson was absolutely achieved since it helped students hone their critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills. Oh yes, and a subsequent test resulted in a 20% increase in straight As. 

Role-playing games and simulations like this have become staples in my teaching toolkit. 

• Explain how your strategy encouraged students to participate and become more active.
• Use numbers or percentages to demonstrate the positive impact of your strategy.
• Show how your strategy helped students develop skills that are valuable beyond the classroom.

Discuss a situation where you collaborated with other teachers or administrators.

A while back, our school decided to put on a big production of “The Wizard of Oz.” It was an ambitious project, and I knew we’d need everyone’s expertise to pull it off. As the English teacher, I partnered with my colleagues in the art and music departments, as well as a few dedicated parent volunteers. We split the work based on our strengths. The art teacher was responsible for the design of the set and costumes, creating a visually stunning and whimsical Land of Oz. The music teacher worked with the students on the iconic songs and musical numbers, while I focused on adapting the script and coaching the actors. The parent volunteers were invaluable in handling the behind-the-scenes logistics, from building props to managing ticket sales.

The final performance was more than we had hoped for. The students truly shone on stage, the audience was completely captivated, and the whole school community came together to celebrate our shared success. For me, this experience highlighted the power of collaboration, the importance of recognizing and leveraging everyone’s unique strengths, and the sheer joy of creating something amazing as a team.

• Choose an example where you collaborated and worked together to achieve a common goal.
• Explain your specific role in the collaboration and how your expertise or skills contributed to the project’s success.
• Show you can resolve conflicts in a collaborative setting.

Situational Interview Questions for Teachers

Situational questions are easy to spot — they usually start with “What would you do if…” or “How would you handle”, followed by a hypothetical situation.

If you encountered the given scenario in your career so far, you can treat them as behavioral questions and base your answer on real-life experience.

• Show that you understand the underlying reasons for the behavior.
• Emphasize a constructive, respectful approach to discipline.

I wouldn’t point fingers. Instead, I’d take it as a sign that something in my teaching approach or the assessment itself didn’t quite click. First, I’d take a good, hard look at the test results, analyze everything including specific questions that most students missed, and try to establish a pattern to the errors. This would give me some clues about where things may have gone wrong.

After that, I’d ask my students for honest feedback about how they felt about the test and what they found challenging. I’d use those insights to develop my future strategies.

Based on what I find out from analyzing the results and talking to my students, I’d take action. Maybe it means reteaching certain concepts differently, offering extra support to struggling students, or even adjusting the way I assess their understanding in the future.

The key is to see this as an opportunity for growth, both for my students and for me as a teacher. It’s a chance to reflect on my practices, learn from my mistakes, and come back stronger.

• Show that you’re open to student feedback.
• Focus on your commitment to continuous improvement.
• Talk about solutions.

I’d first schedule a meeting with the parent where I’d actively listen to their feedback, ask clarifying questions, and try to understand their perspective. I believe that explaining my teaching philosophy and the rationale behind my approach could help them rethink their attitude. Besides, I’d share examples of how my methods have benefited students in the past, while encouraging an open discussion about any research or evidence that supports my practices.

That said, I’d be willing to adapt and make adjustments if necessary, that is, if the feedback from the parent was genuinely constructive and based on good reasoning. 

Ultimately, my goal would be to find common ground and work collaboratively with the parent to create a positive and supportive learning environment for their child. I believe that students can thrive only when parents and teachers work together. 

• Show that you value parent perspective and understand their concerns, even if you disagree.
• Show you can stand your ground and advocate for yourself and your teaching methods and philosophy.

Get a full guide on situational interviews: Situational Interview Questions: Sample Answers and Tips .

Based on my personal experience and conversations I’ve had with ex-colleagues, here are some more common questions you can expect:

• How did you get into teaching?
• What’s your teaching philosophy?
• How would your students and colleagues describe you?
• What do you like/dislike the most about teaching?
• What are the strengths that helped your teaching career?
• What’s your biggest accomplishment as a teacher?
• What about teaching in our district appeals to you?
• How do you communicate and build relationships with parents?
• For what reasons or issues would you reach out to communicate with parents?
• When and how do you typically engage counselors?
• What do you think is the most difficult aspect of the profession?
• How do you evaluate students and what grading system do you use?
• What methods do you use to assess student learning beyond traditional tests and quizzes?
• A student always finishes their assignments early. How would you deal with the free time they have?
• How do you work with students who perform below grade level?
• Describe what experience you have in modifying lesson plans for students with special needs?
• Imagine that a student is consistently late to your class. How would you handle the situation?
• If the majority of your class failed a test, what would you do?
• How do you implement technology in your lessons?
• What would you do if a student refused to do the work you assigned?
• What are the rules of your classroom? How do you establish and reinforce them?
• What’s your approach to discipline?

Role-Specific Interview Questions for Teachers

In the interview, you’ll also get questions related to the specific subject you’re teaching, different educational levels, methodologies, or recent trends.

To do well, make sure you prepare for the more challenging questions and highlight the importance of thorough research on the school’s curriculum and values.

Here are some examples to give you a broad idea of what you can expect:

Questions for elementary school teachers

• How do you incorporate social-emotional learning into your daily classroom activities?
• Can you describe an activity you’ve designed that helps develop foundational skills in math and reading?

Questions for high school teachers

• How do you keep students engaged in a subject they might find challenging or uninteresting?
• Describe how you prepare your students for standardized tests and college readiness.

Questions for special education teachers

• Tell us about a time when you adapted your teaching methods to accommodate different learning disabilities.
• How do you collaborate with general education teachers to ensure inclusivity and equal learning opportunities for all students?

Questions for science teachers

• What techniques do you use to teach complex scientific concepts to ensure student understanding?
• How do you incorporate hands-on experiments into your curriculum?

Questions for PE teachers

• Describe your philosophy on physical education and its role within the broader educational environment.
• How do you motivate students who are reluctant to participate in physical activities?

Questions for art teachers

• Can you share an example of how you integrate other subjects, like history or math, into your art lessons?
• What methods do you use to assess student progress in a subjectively evaluated course like art?

Bonus Tips for Answering Teacher Interview Questions

Here are some tips to help nail those tricky questions and show your unique value better.

Use the STAR method for storytelling

When answering questions about your experiences, use the STAR method to keep your answers focused and engaging.

STAR is a 4-step approach that works great for all questions that require you to tell a story.

• Situation: Set the scene by briefly describing the context of the situation.
• Task: Talk about the goal or challenge you were facing.
• Action: Outline the specific steps you took to address the situation.
• Result: Discuss the outcome of your actions and how it impacted the students or your colleagues.

Let your passion shine through

Teaching is more than just a job. Let your passion for education and working with kids and young adults show through in your answers.

Share what inspires you about this profession and drives you to be a better teacher. Maybe it’s witnessing those “aha!” moments when a student finally grasps a concept or overcomes a learning obstacle with your help. Or when you see them get progressively better in an area they initially struggled with.

Be specific and genuine in your responses, and, whenever possible, use examples from your experience to make a point.

Focus on the positive & proven

When discussing your experiences, always highlight the positive outcomes you’ve achieved. Don’t just tell them what you did — frame it around the results and the difference it made. Such as:

• Test scores improving
• Engagement increasing
• A shift in students’ attitudes towards learning

Be specific and use quantifiable data whenever possible.

Back up your claims by sharing anecdotes about students or talking about specific projects or lessons that led to exceptional results. This way, you’ll present yourself as a reflective practitioner who can analyze and improve their teaching methods.

Research the school

Start with their website. Dig into their mission statement, values, and educational philosophy. Find out what their priorities are and what kind of learning environment they strive to create. Look for information about their curriculum, extracurricular activities, and special programs.

Next, check out their social media. This can give you a glimpse into the school’s culture and community. Look for photos and posts about events, student achievements, and teacher highlights. You might even get a sense of the school’s personality and how they communicate with parents and the wider community.

Getting familiar with the school will serve two purposes — you’d be able to give better, more informed answers, and also show them that you took the time to explore, meaning — you’re genuinely excited.

Practice for the interview

As a teacher, you’re probably not afraid of being in the spotlight, but that’s when you control the classroom and make the decisions. Once the roles are reversed, and you’re put in a less powerful position, it’s easy to lose focus and panic.

Mock interviews are a great way to get more confident and increase your chances of getting the callback. You can practice on your own by recording yourself on your phone. This is useful because you can rewatch the recording and make corrections. You can also use interview simulation software like Big Interview to practice.

Big Interview software comes with a list of questions that you answer on camera. You get in, record yourself, and once you’re done, you get AI feedback on 12+ criteria like the relevance of your answer, pace of speech, use of filler words, or body language.

If you’re a Big Interview user, you can practice if you go to Interviews , then Practice Sets , then By Industry , and then select the Teaching Profession . You’ll be able to choose a more specific set to practice: College Professor , K-12 Teacher , K-12 Teacher Level 2 , and School Administrator .

Summary of the Main Points

• Teacher interviews are tricky because you need to adapt to the role switch — you’re the one being evaluated. The pressure to do your best can get to even the most prepared candidates.
• To do well in a teacher interview, you need to know what key skills they’re looking for — classroom management, lesson planning, passion for the subject, problem solving, enthusiasm, and knowledge transfer skills.
• You should highlight your student focus, but also show how you will contribute to the success of the school.
• The questions will vary depending on the exact courses and grade levels you’ll be teaching, but will typically be a mix of general interview questions like “Tell me about yourself” and role-specific ones.
• Most of the interview will be centered around behavioral and situational questions, where you need to recall a specific situation from your past career or say how you would act in a hypothetical situation.
• Before the interview, don’t forget to research the school and practice your answers, body language, and delivery, ideally through mock interviews.

How to respond to interview questions with limited teaching experience?

You need to emphasize your transferable skills, experiences, and potential for growth. Even if you haven’t had formal teaching experience, you probably have skills that are relevant. Mention the times you worked with children or youth, and focus on your willingness to learn. When you get behavioral questions, try saying: “I haven’t had that experience so far, but here’s how I would approach it”, and then say what you would do in that situation.

What are the most challenging questions a teacher might face?

Questions that involve uncomfortable situations and problem-solving, such as: “How would you handle a student who continuously misbehaves?” Questions that deal with cultural competence and diversity, like “How do you promote an inclusive classroom environment?” or “How have you adapted your teaching methods to support students with special needs?”

What questions should a candidate ask at the end of a teacher interview?

• What are some of the school’s strengths and areas for growth?
• What opportunities are available for professional development for teachers?
• Have you set any programs in place to promote positive behavior and student engagement?
• How does the district address emergency preparedness and crisis management?
• Can you describe the collaboration between general education and special education teachers to meet the needs of diverse learners?

What’s the appropriate attire for a teacher interview?

To show respect for the teaching profession, it’s best to opt for formal business attire in neutral, inconspicuous colors. You want to be moderate — make sure your jewelry is minimal, your hair (and facial hair) groomed, your nails clean and neat, and your make-up natural. Your attire should reflect professionalism and confidence.

What are the best practices for researching a school or educational institution pre-interview?

Start by visiting the school’s official website and look for their mission statement, programs, extracurricular activities, and recent news or announcements. Check their social media and online platforms like GreatSchools, Niche, and SchoolDigger for reviews and ratings from students, parents, and staff. You’ll learn a lot about academic performance, campus culture, and community engagement.

Bojana Krstic

Fact Checked By:

Turn interviews into offers

Share this article

• Big Interview
• Plans & Pricing
• Higher Education
• Editorial Process
• Resume Templates
• Interview Preparation
• Interview Q&A
• Career Advice
• Create an Account
• Knowledge Base

©️ 2024 Skillful Communications, Inc. | Big Interview is a trademark of Skillful Communications, Inc.

Terms | Privacy Policy

Top 25 Teacher Interview Questions And Answers

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

UPDATED 5/21/2022

Being a teacher can be one of the most rewarding jobs on the planet…but even with teaching vacancies rising and the number of opportunities increasing , getting those first jobs teaching can be a nerve-wracking experience. Fortunately, nailing that interview for your dream job doesn’t have to be a challenge. By reviewing teach interview questions and answers, you can study and practice your way to success.

Luckily, we’ve pulled together some easy tips for you to keep in mind while prepping for your teaching interview. Plus, we’ve gathered up some of the most common teacher interview questions, along with some example answers.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dig in!

Top 6 Tips For Answering Teacher Interview Questions

1. get personal..

Teacher interview questions are meant to find out more about you as both an educator and a person. Make sure when you answer the questions that you’re giving actual personal answers and canned responses. Highlight your skills, background, and experience, and how you apply it all to situations you might encounter.

2. Get specific.

This relates directly to the behavioral questions and how you should answer them. Use examples from your own past and skills to illustrate exactly how you have done things in the past.

Also, make sure to embrace both the STAR Method and the Tailoring Method . That way, your answers are compelling and relevant.

3. Get coordinated.

Make sure you draw attention to specific skills you have that are directly listed in the job description. Before you head into the interview, review the desired qualifications in the job description and match those up to your skills. Use that as a guideline for building your answers.

4. Get educated.

As we mentioned above, research is essential. Look into the school you’re applying to and the school district. Do you know anyone working there already? Do you have friends who have children who are students at the school?

Any and all information you get ahead of time will not only help you determine what sort of environment is at the school but if you want to actually work there or not. Plus, coming in with knowledge about the academics, curriculum, sports, and school programs shows initiative.

5. Get cozy.

Be prepared for a possible panel interview. Education interviews are often conducted by multiple individuals and may include the principal, teachers, parents, and members of the administrative staff.

In some instances, there are education committees set up specifically to interview and screen potential teachers.

6. Get honest!

Above all else, always be honest during your interview. Lying your way into a position only hurts you in the long run.

In fact we we wanted to let you know that we created an amazing free cheat sheet that will give you word-for-word answers for some of the toughest interview questions you are going to face in your upcoming interview. After all, hiring managers will often ask you more generalized interview questions!

Click below to get your free PDF now:

Get Our Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet!

FREE BONUS PDF CHEAT SHEET: Get our " Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet " that gives you " word-word sample answers to the most common job interview questions you'll face at your next interview .

CLICK HERE TO GET THE JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS CHEAT SHEET

10 Common Teacher Interview Questions With Great Example Answers

Now that we’ve gone over these tips, let’s take a look at the ten most common interview questions for teachers. We’ve listed them below and included a brief explanation of each one. Think of them as a study guide to help guide your own answers…but remember…no copying! Make them your own!

1. Why do you want to be a teacher?

This is probably the most often asked teacher question. You want to give an answer that is heartfelt, genuine, and really illustrates why you chose this field. Take time before your interview to really reflect on why you’re doing what you’re doing. Draw from specific examples. Make your response thoughtful, authentic, and honest.

EXAMPLE ANSWER:

When I was in third grade, I struggled a lot with reading, which affected my grades and caused me to fall behind. My teacher, Miss Emily, sat me down one day and talked to me about what was going on. I told her how hard it was for me to read, and we discovered together I was having vision problems. She moved me to a desk that was closer to the front and met with my parents to discuss options. Because of her, my parents took me to a doctor, and my astigmatism was diagnosed. Miss Emily reignited my love of learning at that moment. I want to be that teacher…the one who takes the time to really discover why students are struggling and give another child like me an opportunity to learn to love learning again.

2. Why do you want to teach at this school?

This question is another common teaching interview question. Use this opportunity to provide specific reasons why you’re interested in the school by drawing on the information you gathered during your research.

I’ve spent a lot of time researching schools within this district, and I’m very impressed with what you offer here. Between an award-winning teaching staff and a district that is very involved, your school has a teacher-to-student ratio that I think really allows for personalized education. Smaller classroom sizes, like the ones you maintain here, make it possible for me to give each child the one-on-one attention they deserve. On top of that, your after-school science program is exciting to me, and I would hope, should I get hired here, that I might be able to become involved in that as well.

3. What can you bring to our school that makes you unique?

This question is pretty straightforward. Talk about activities you’ve participated in or passions you have that can easily translate into teachable moments and classroom activities that fall outside the usual curriculum that is currently being enacted.

I love science and exploring the natural world beyond the borders of the classroom. For that reason, I started an after-school explorer’s club at my last school. We would go on nature hikes, visit museums, and invite local scientists and biologists to come speak to us about what they’re working on and their research. The response was overwhelming, and I have students who still come up to me years later and tell me how much they loved our club and how it helped inspire them to pursue careers in the sciences. I would be very interested in continuing the legacy of the explorer’s club here.

4. What frustrates you the most in a classroom?

This question allows your interviewers to get to know what it takes to ruffle your feathers and how you’ll behave when faced with that situation. Find a scenario that is fairly common for all teachers, and then explain how you’ve dealt with that frustration.

I have to admit, I get frustrated by the kids who think they’re too cool for school and who float through their day doing as little as possible. The same sentiment applies to teachers who play into that attitude. Rather than turn that frustration into anger or simply ignoring the issue and waiting for a slacker to drift through a year in my class, I turn that frustration into a challenge for both the student and myself. Most of the time, their attitude is a way for them to protect themselves, something they developed to manage the challenges they’re facing outside of school. Sometimes all they need is to know someone else believes in them. By giving them a little extra attention and encouragement, I’ve seen some of the ‘coolest kids’ turn into students who are focused, driven, and ready to turn themselves around.

5. What is your teaching philosophy?

Everyone will have a unique answer to this question as everyone’s experiences with education, and own personal history will determine how they’ve shaped their own philosophy. Take time before you get into the interview to really focus on what your philosophy is and how you apply it every day.

I believe that the best learning opportunities are the ones that the students come up with themselves. For that reason, I spend every lunch hour on the playground with my students and make myself available for them to ask me “playground pop quiz” questions. These questions have ranged from everything from “how is the ice cream we had at lunch made” to exploring the lifecycle of the mosquitos we found in a piece of playground equipment. I love challenging the students to try to stump me, and as a result, they go out of their way to explore the environment around them, making learning fun and exciting.

6. What do you learn about your students to ensure you’re the best help?

This question is tricky because every interview may have a different perspective about how much you need to know. Since that’s the case, it’s best to find an answer that will resonate logically, even if the interviewer has a different perspective on the matter.

Generally, I want to make sure I spend time getting to know each student’s learning style. With that, I can ensure that I use the right range of strategies during core lessons and that I can adjust my approach during one-on-one sessions when the need arises. Beyond that, I also try to learn at least one key interest that each student has, even if it isn’t related to my subject. That way, I can incorporate details that align with those interests on occasion. For example, I can talk about a bakery in math problems with students who love sweets or squeeze information about bugs into practice reading passages for kids who adore science. Overall, it’s an approach that I find particularly useful for engagement, so I use it regularly.

7. If you had to describe your teaching style in one word, what would it be and why?

With this, you need to balance brevity and thoroughness. It’s critical to focus on the “one word” aspect, as launching into a list makes it seem like you didn’t understand the question. Additionally, you want to back up with every word you choose.

If I had to describe my teaching style in one word, I’d have to pick “agile.” No two students are alike, so I know the value of keeping on my toes and pivoting my approach to ensure every child gets an exceptional experience. For example, I’ve taught science classes where some students were visual learning, and others were more tactile. So, I adjusted my strategy to incorporate both, bringing in colorful models that students could view, manipulate, and even take apart. It connected with both types of students, making the lesson more impactful.

8. If you could make one change to a school environment, what would it be and why?

Here, the interviewer is trying to gauge what you view as shortcomings in the broader system. It can be tricky to answer, especially as some responses may seem judgmental. Since that’s the case, it’s best to stick with a somewhat neutral topic, all while ensuring what’s best for students stays at the heart.

If I had the power to make one change, I would make school lunches free for all students. That removes the stigma that comes with being a student from a lower-income family, as no one has to worry about whether they can pay or if they’re on a free meal program or not. Since that’s the case, students who may feel uncomfortable being singled out for being on a free meal program – potentially to the point that they may opt to skip meals instead of getting that attention – don’t have any concerns.

9. How have you integrated technology into the classroom in your past roles?

Today’s students are increasingly tech-savvy, even at a young age. Since that’s the case, many interviewers want to know how you’ve integrated technology into the classroom experience in the past.

At my last school, we were fortunate enough to have access to tablets in the classroom. Along with using them for certain heads-down experiences, I took advantage of the tablets’ capabilities to revamp my approach to engagement. I integrated live polls into many lesson plans, allowing students to participate even during lectures. For example, I’d present a hypothesis relating to the subject and ask students what they think was true based on the four available answers. Then, we’d review the responses and engage in discussions before moving forward. It was a fun way to promote broader involvement, all thanks to the live polling features in the tablets.

10. How do you handle a parent that blames you for a child’s poor performance?

If a child isn’t excelling in school, some parents automatically blame the teachers. Since those conversations can get heated, the interviewer wants to ensure you’ll approach them in a professional manner.

If a parent feels I’m responsible for a child’s poor performance, my main goal is to remain calm and professional during the conversation. I strive to maintain a fact-based approach. After ensuring they feel heard, I concentrate more on working with them to find a solution than anything else. It’s not about placing blame; it’s about developing a plan that’ll help their student thrive. By maintaining that mentality, I find that most parents will pivot, allowing us to dive into the challenges the student is facing and how we can help them together.

15 More Common Teaching Interview Questions

• How would you prepare your classroom if it was the first day of school?
• How do you evaluate students?
• Why do we teach “X” in school?
• How do you communicate with parents?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher?
• What did you love most about your last school, and what did you like least?
• How do you use data to analyze student performance and identify areas for your own improvement?
• Which subject was your favorite as a student?
• Why did you leave your last teaching role?
• Tell me about a challenging student you had previously. How did you manage the situation?
• Why should we hire you to teach here?
• What’s the biggest challenge that students face today?
• How do you incorporate collaborative experiences into your learning plan?
• What steps do you take to keep students motivated?
• How do you handle a disengaged parent?

Do You Have Any Questions For Me?

Questions to ask at the end of a teacher interview.

If you’ve ever been to a job interview, you know that after you spend time answering interview questions for teachers, you will usually be asked if you have any questions of your own.

This is the gold mine question and one that serves two distinct purposes. It gives you an opportunity to get information you might not have been able to gather during your research period while also allowing you one more chance to demonstrate you are the perfect candidate by having a pre-prepared list of questions you’d like answered.

Good questions to ask include:

• Can you tell me a little about the culture here at the school?
• What is a typical day like?
• Are there any qualities you’re looking for in a teacher that were not listed in the job description?
• Is there a teacher mentoring program here?
• Are there opportunities for furthering my education available here?
• What is the average classroom size?
• How are the classrooms equipped? Is this a wired school?
• What goals and expectations do you have for your teachers?
• Are there any challenges the school/district is facing that I should be aware of?
• Is there an active PTA here?
• How is the relationship between the parents and the school?
• Is the school a part of the community?
• How does this school handle student discipline?
• How does it handle bullying?

Putting It All Together

So, there you have it, tips, tricks, and a study guide stuffed full of teacher interview questions and answers for you to go over and use for practice. Make use of all of the information above.

And as always…good luck!

P.S. Now that you’ve got a good feel for the teacher interview questions you are going to be asked, don’t forget that there are hundreds of non-teacher interview questions that you could be asked in your interview! Thankfully we’ve outlined the most common questions AND given you word-for-word answers in our free PDF below:

FREE : Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet!

Here's what you're getting:

• Word-for-word sample answers to the most common interview questions
• Tell me about yourself, why should we hire you?, What's your greatest weakness and more!
• Free Access to our VIP resources area

Click Here To Get The Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

Copyright © 2024 · TheInterviewguys.com · All Rights Reserved

• Our Products
• Case Studies
• Interview Questions
• Jobs Articles
• Members Login

31 Common Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Being a teacher is incredibly rewarding. After all, you get to shape how your students learn, grow, and see the world around them. It’s a field just about anyone with a passion for mentoring, and the right people and education skills, can break into. Yet, mastering the most common teacher interview questions might be crucial for that perfect position.

Kirsten Horton , a veteran education leader who’s taught pre-K up to third grade in private as well as public schools, started her career as a paralegal before working with students. “If it’s calling you, then that’s where you’re supposed to be and it’s what you’re supposed to be doing,” she tells The Muse. 

Despite having been homeschooled most of her life, she has always been fascinated with pop culture’s image of school (think: Mean Girls ) and was motivated by the opportunity to tailor students’ learning to their specific needs just as her family did for her. “I love that no two days are the same. No two classes or years are the same as a teacher. It never gets boring or monotonous,” she says about the perks of the job, adding that working alongside other smart, supportive, and ambitious teachers is another plus. 

However, she warned that the field isn’t for everyone: It requires patience, flexibility, collaboration, and a knack for working well with others. These days, Horton not only teaches but regularly assists with hiring and mentoring new staffers, many of whom she’s seen come from varying careers, or even leap into education after retirement. 

Like a middle manager in the corporate world, teacher leaders or department chairs like her take some of the work off of the plates of the principal or vice principal by interviewing potential candidates. Because they’re doing the job they’re hiring for, she adds, they also have the best idea of what skills and personality traits to look for.

The more interviews you get, the better your chances of getting hired—apply now to these amazing teacher jobs on The Muse »

Teaching interviews: What to expect

Horton says that a typical teacher interview will usually take place at the school you’re applying to. Depending on the type or size of the team, the specificity of the role (for example, whether you'll be working with students with special needs), and the interview round, you may meet with one teacher or staffer (a principal or VP, administrator, or counselor, for example), or multiple at a time. 

“A lot of times they intentionally have you meet several members of the school team or even your teaching team. And the purpose of that is for everybody to say, ‘Yes, I could work with this person,’ just because you don’t want to get midway through the year and have a team that’s not working collaboratively together.” 

At a bigger public school, she adds, you’re more likely to have a one-on-one interview purely because of demand for teachers on call, whereas at a private school the staff likely have more free time to interview as a group.

But she’s found that because many school leaders were teachers at some point in their careers, they’ll often go easy on interviewees. “They’re used to helping people succeed and really coaching people through,” she says. “So they’re never really trying to throw anything at you that’s going to be overwhelming or trying to stump you. They’re trying to just really bring the best out in you.” 

You’ll definitely encounter the more general interview questions like “ What are your strengths and weaknesses? ” or “ Why do you want this job? ” But you’ll also face more specific queries about, say, working with students or designing a lesson plan. 

And you may even have to answer some fun but curveball questions: Horton loves to ask, “Do you drink coffee in the morning, throughout the day, or not at all?” Not only does it give her a sense of their mindset and energy level, but it also tells her what special order to deliver to them on their first day. (In other words, there’s no wrong answer!)

To help you prepare, check out these common teacher interview questions—as well as advice and examples for how to answer them. Plus, learn what skills and qualities hiring managers are looking for and get some bonus tips for nailing your next teaching interview questions.

Teacher interview questions: What are hiring managers looking for?

No matter the specific role or workplace, hiring managers look for common themes in qualified teaching applicants:

• Teaching skills: Unsurprisingly, how you work with students on a group and individual level is crucial. The key question is, “Do they know how to have an effective classroom where all kids are learning and engaged?” according to Dan Swartz , former managing director at Resolve Talent Consulting—a firm that specializes in education recruitment—and current executive director of human resources at Clarke County School District in Athens, Georgia.
• Data proficiency: In today’s modern school system, data is also incredibly important, Swartz says. He wants to know: “Have you been able to master or are you proficient at the use of data?” So whenever possible, give examples of how you used data to guide you. For example, have you gleaned insights from individual test scores or overall class performance metrics?
• Subject matter expertise: Candidates have to show that they’re adequately knowledgeable about the content area they’re looking to teach, whether it’s history or science. “A lot of times there are state standards,” Swartz says. So when it makes sense, try incorporating “how much you know about the standards or how much you can use the standards for your instruction,” he says.
• Teamwork: Being a team player when it comes to working with other teachers, administrators, aides, and staff means you’ll help not only students but also the entire school thrive.
• Organization and accountability: Candidates who are on top of deadlines and can meet classroom goals will go far. “As an administrator, I need to know that I’m going to be able to get lesson plans from you,” says Rob Sheppard, an ESL teacher who started his own online English school, Ginseng English .
• Commitment to students: If there’s one thing that can’t be taught, it’s care for students—so interviewers want to know you have it. “The rest of the stuff, educators can teach.” Swartz says. “They can teach you content, they can teach you how to be a more effective teacher delivering your lessons, but they can’t teach the belief in students.”

Keep these themes in mind as you prepare for your teaching interview and look for opportunities to communicate them whenever possible—especially in response to these common questions.

Need some tips for writing your teaching resume? Find a full guide here .

1. Why do you want to be a teacher?

“You have to know who you are as an individual and as an educator, and you have to know what you can bring to the school,” says Calvin Brown, a former recruiter at Alignstaffing , an education staffing firm. This question gets to the heart of that passion and self-awareness.

How to answer

Rule #1: Don’t say, “Summer vacations!” But seriously—this one should be easy to answer. There’s probably something that made you want to get into education. Maybe you enjoy teaching your friends new things, are a facts wizard bursting with knowledge, or love connecting with children. Focus not just on what you like about teaching but also on what you can bring to the table.

For example, you might say: “I really admired my third grade teacher, Mrs. Kim, and even after I left her class I still returned to her for advice and guidance over the years. It’s that sense of warmth and acceptance she provided me that inspired me to become a teacher. I want to be that person others can lean on as they navigate the rough waters of growing up.”

2. What’s your teaching style or philosophy?

Interviewers want to see that you really want to help students develop inside and outside school—not just push them toward some academic result. Basically, you care about people and their success, and you’ve thought about what that success looks like and how you’ll help students achieve it.

They’re also likely vetting for an alignment of values. “In order to serve kids, the same as parenting, you have to be aligned in your beliefs and your practices before you can go out and influence kids positively,” Horton says.

She adds that even if you’re brand new to teaching, you can still touch on what you would do given the chance to run a classroom. “For example, a lot of people are really looking for somebody who’s going to say that they feel really confident with the age that they’re going to be teaching and that they’re really going to focus on building a positive community versus punitive consequences.” 

You’ll want to be honest about your specific style and mindset when it comes to teaching. But also consider what this school’s philosophy is like, and try to emphasize where your values naturally overlap.

For example, you might talk about how you take a community approach to education, which means “knowing that you’re one piece of this person’s journey,” says Mary Findley, Senior Teacher Success Manager at Skillshare and a former Teach for America Core Member and elementary school teacher.

You could answer with: “I believe when students are challenged with realistic goals and given the support they need not to just get the answers right but to be able to use those lessons to solve future problems on their own, everyone comes out on top. I think that as a teacher, it’s my job to support my students through the lessons I give, but also through the various challenges they may face at school, and to partner with them as well as other support systems to help them feel motivated, comfortable, and happy in the classroom.”

3. How would you handle a student you found difficult to teach?

Students don’t all learn or behave the same way, which may make it a challenge to have them all in one classroom at the same time. Difficulties with students can look like many different things, from falling grades to disrupting lessons. So interviewers want to know that you’re up to the task of helping students with the varied obstacles they may face.

A good answer delves into figuring out the cause of a student’s behavior, as that’s often the most important step. “When students are disengaged, it’s either because the content’s too challenging, it’s too easy, or there could be some outside-of-school factors,” Findley says.

Your response should show that “you’re meeting the student where they’re at and building on their strengths,” Findley says. It should also emphasize that you’re “collaboratively discussing” solutions with the student rather than ordering them around.

If you have an example story to tell, that’s a great way to state your case. Just make sure your story is well structured to convey the message you want. Consider using the STAR method whenever you’re answering an interview question with a story—i.e., make sure you cover the S ituation you found yourself in, the T ask you needed to complete, the A ction you took, and the R esult your action had, in that order.

You could say: “For me, the first step would be to pull them aside and talk about the issue privately. My main questions would get at the root cause of this student’s behavior. Once I know that, I try to work with them to come up with a solution. I used this strategy in my last classroom, where I had a student who couldn’t seem to stay in his seat during lessons and I found out that sitting still too long made him feel confined and nervous. We talked about how his behavior affected the rest of the class, and we agreed that when he was feeling really anxious he could raise his hand and I’d let him take a lap around the classroom, but only when it was appropriate. I also decided to make some of my lessons more active and hands-on so that other students could benefit from getting out of their seats every once in a while.”

4. How do you motivate students?

Interviewers want to see how you influence students to do what you need them to do. Findley adds that this is an especially important thing to vet for when hiring remote teachers, because motivating others over video requires a lot more creativity than when you’re teaching in person.

Motivating your class is really about having a personalized approach, Findley says. You’ll want to show that you can engage a classroom, as well as take into consideration various students’ needs and drivers. Brown adds, “You have to know your students, you have to know their strong points and their weak points.” So make sure that your answer shows an individualized approach.

Take this sample answer: “Positive reinforcement is super important to keep a student motivated, so one thing I like to do is throw out rewards or bonuses when they perform especially well. This could be candy, or a star, or a sticker, or even just a compliment—whatever I can tell students enjoy receiving, and it’s different for everyone. I never want students to feel left out or favored, so I always try to be fair and consistent with everyone. But it’s those little moments of recognition I think that keep them happy and excited to learn.”

5. How do you like to communicate and build relationships with parents?

Part of being a teacher is working with parents and guardians—i.e., the people who influence how your students learn and behave in the classroom just as much as (if not more than) you do. Building trust with the adults in your students’ lives can often help you build stronger relationships with the students themselves and create some consistency between school and home.

“I’m looking to see that a candidate will take every opportunity to interact with parents in person,” Brown says. “Ultimately, I’m looking for candidates that believe parent collaboration is key to a student’s success, and they will take the time to maintain an ongoing, open conversation.”

To show you take building relationships with family members seriously, you could say: “I think it’s really important to get to know the important family members in each student’s life. Which is why at the beginning of the school year I like to have individual meetings with each student’s family. I’ll also send out a survey to get a better understanding of the student’s home life, needs, and family dynamics. Then, throughout the year, I build on that foundation by touching base to share positive updates and small wins in addition to discussing any challenges the student might be facing academically or behaviorally.”

6. What are you learning right now?

This question is about showing that you’re curious and believe in continuous learning—qualities that are important in a teacher as well as for a teacher to pass on to students. In other words, Findley says, the interviewer’s asking: “What are some personal interests? How are you developing yourself both within your professional career and personal development as well?”

Hopefully, you’re doing something to help yourself grow—it doesn’t have to be extensive or even career-related! Maybe you’re reading a series of books about a topic, taking a class, or learning a new skill . Use this activity to show that you have an “always learning” mindset and an appreciation for continuing to get better at something.

Here’s what that sounds like: “I used to speak Italian in college, so I’ve recently picked up Duolingo to try to reteach myself some of the basics. I’d love to continue to become more fluent so I can travel to Italy and talk with locals!”

7. What activities/community initiatives interest you?

This is a question Horton has seen come up in private school interviews, where staff often wear multiple hats and fill in roles beyond teaching a specific subject. “There’s a big interest in, what do you bring to the table…what do you contribute to the community, and how would you work together with our small team?” she says.

Show that you’re a team player and have a diverse set of skills and interests with an answer like: “I played rubgy in college and would love to help the team get to the state championship this year” or, “I work at an animal shelter on the weekends and would love to bring that same charitable spirit to student fundraisers, shows, or volunteer opportunities.”

8. How would your students and colleagues describe you?

Horton notes that this question is introspective, forcing you to evaluate yourself objectively as a person, teammate, and teacher.

She suggests being honest, but spinning as much of your qualities as you can to be positive and student-focused.

For example, she says, “If you’re strict, don’t say strict—say structured, and that kids thrive on routine.” Or, if you’re more spontaneous and fun but don’t want to come off as flighty, you could reply, “My colleagues might say that I’m a really dynamic teacher, and I really enjoy using creativity to come up with engaging lessons for my students.”

For teachers who like a quiet classroom, she advises, focus on why you prefer a peaceful classroom: “Students might describe me as liking to have a classroom where they can feel safe and relaxed and really focused on their learning.”

Read More: 3 Ways to Talk About How Your Boss and Coworkers Would Describe You

9. What do you love most about teaching?

This question is the perfect time to share your idealistic vision for teaching (even if it feels a bit romantic): maybe it’s the impact that education can have on the world, or how you want to influence students and help them achieve their dreams, build confidence, or uncover potential.

Ultimately, your interviewer wants to “know that the passion for teaching is there,” Horton says. “The days in teaching can be so long, and you’ve got to have a great attitude, you’ve got to really want to be there,” she adds.

To touch on your strengths and passions, as well as the school’s values, try a response like: “What I love most about teaching is seeing students I’ve mentored succeed in higher levels. You mentioned that team collaboration is important in your district, and in past positions I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside incredible counselors and other teachers who’ve helped me get a struggling student where they need to be. One specific story that comes to mind is…”

Read More: 3 Authentic Ways to Answer “What Are You Passionate About?” in a Job Interview

10. How do you evaluate/grade students?

Beyond genuinely wanting to hear your perspective and past experience, interviewers ask this question to gauge whether your measurements align with how they evaluate students. With this, Horton recommends researching the school to understand their priorities. Do they value test scores? Do they use rubrics, or do they let students self-evaluate? Is project-based learning involved?

To balance your background with the school’s needs, you could respond with something like, “In my last teaching position we had a ranking system for students. While it was beneficial for spotting outliers and understanding where I needed to focus my energies, I prefer a rubric system that evaluates students against themselves rather than the rest of the class.”

11. Tell me about a time when you worked with a team to solve a problem.

Parents and students aren’t the only people you’ll be interacting with. You’ll frequently need to partner with aides, school staff, and other teachers to help students succeed, so your interviewer wants to know that you can work with just about anyone.

Telling a story about a team situation where things didn’t go perfectly is a great way to show you can communicate and collaborate with others even when times are tough. “But don’t emphasize the conflict—emphasize how you got through the conflict to have something that was effective,” Swartz says. “Even if you’re not a teacher with experience, you can still highlight how you go about your work by giving past examples” from another context.

For example, you could reply: “In my last role as a project coordinator, I had to partner with our account managers to meet a really tight deadline set by a client. We were all a little frazzled because the project required a lot of revisions, but we put our heads together and divided the work, even staying late a couple days to make sure we finished on time. I definitely don’t think we could have accomplished it without working together, and I believe the same is true as a teacher working with other staff—you can’t go it alone if you’re going to successfully foster a learning environment that works for all students and supports them as individuals.”

Read More: Everything You Need to Know About Answering Behavioral Interview Questions

12. Tell me about a time when you faced a difficult challenge.

Brown says that with either of these questions, the interviewer wants to hear: “When you come across things that are obstacles, how do you overcome them?” In other words, the interviewer wants to see that you can solve problems at work in an intentional way. Brown also emphasizes that accomplishments and challenges often come hand in hand. Knowing how to answer teacher interview questions like this one shows the “drive for achievement” that interviewers want to see in teachers.

Pick a story where you had to stretch yourself a bit, but ultimately got to a successful outcome. Remember to also talk about your problem solving process in addition to the results.

Maybe you could say: “When I was in retail, I dealt with one particularly difficult customer who wasn’t satisfied with their purchase. Most of my team was struggling to connect with them, but I was determined to set things right. So I was patient and took the time to really listen to their complaints without guessing what the problem was or assuming what the solution should be. That not only helped me understand the root of their issue, but helped them see I was going to work with them. In the end, we came up with a solution that seemed like a good compromise for the customer. They left the store in a lot better of a mood than when they entered, and turning someone’s day around felt truly great.”

13. Tell me about a time when something unexpected happened at work and how you dealt with it.

You might spend hours preparing to teach a particular unit, “but then something will happen and it throws off your whole lesson plan,” Swartz says. So interviewers want to see that you can think on your feet and handle a conflict when it arises.

Share a story that makes it clear you can stay calm, cool, and collected when a situation changes.

You could give the example: “When I was a camp counselor, I often had to keep campers entertained through rainy weather or a blip in the activities schedule. The first time it happened I didn’t really know how to handle the group, so I decided to put together a one-sheeter of activities and games and share it with the other counselors so we could refer to it in the future. I can confidently say no camper was disappointed with the change of schedule—they loved all the games, and the staff was relieved how smoothly things went after that first time.”

14. Tell me about a time when someone gave you feedback and how you handled that.

Receiving and implementing feedback well is important for your growth as an educator. “This is actually most critical for veteran teachers,” Swartz says. Since they’d be most likely to “communicate a level of, ‘I’ve already gotten this, I’ve already arrived, I don’t need any extra feedback.’”

Consider a time when you got feedback that was tough to take but ultimately made you better at your job. Talk through how you received it (hopefully with an open mind!) as well as how you made the change.

For example: “At my last school, one of the teachers on my team shared with me that students had been talking about how lost they were after a recent math lesson. They were complaining that I went way too fast. It was rough to get this criticism because I’d thought this class was happy with my teaching style and learning a lot. But I knew I had to take it to heart. So for all my classes—not just the one that complained—I implemented a color-coded card system. Each student received red, yellow, and green cards, and I got in the habit of stopping every few minutes to ask for cards. Students would hold up red cards for me to slow down, yellow if everything was going well, or green if I could speed up. I’d adjust accordingly and over time, I noticed more and more yellow cards as I discovered the best pace for each class. This also had the added benefit of me seeing who was holding up a lot of red cards so I could offer them extra assistance or attention outside of the lesson.”

Read More: How to Take Feedback Like a Pro

15. How would you handle common misconceptions or difficulties in your teaching content?

Depending on the subject matter and classroom you’re signing up for, this question can really vary in how it’s delivered. But “Being able to correctly show a mastery of [course] content versus just the knowledge of the content” is key, Swartz says. Do you really understand the material you’re teaching inside and out?

You need to show you can “reverse engineer” the problem, Swartz explains. You’ll want to explain your process for identifying the issue and then your approach for resolving the misunderstanding or difficulty that your students are having in mastering the material.

Take this example question Swartz gives: “What are some of the common misconceptions students might have when solving the problem 31.8 + 0.45? How would you address these?”

A good response might be: “One common problem is that students won’t line everything up by the place value or decimal. They may line the five up right below the eight and therefore get the wrong answer. I would teach them to line the decimals up and then put zeros as place holders so they don’t get confused. I would also encourage them to draw a line from each addend all the way down to their sum to make sure all the decimals are in line. I always remind students to read carefully and double check their work to avoid common mistakes like this.”

16. Walk me through a typical lesson.

The interviewer isn’t just looking for a quality lesson that’s accurate and engaging. They also want to know how you think about planning lessons. “A lot of it’s going to be about debriefing your process, like what went well...and then what are things that you can work on,” Findley says.

This question requires a bit more preparation on your part than a typical interview question. If you have an example lesson from a previous role, that’s great. If not, consider whipping up a quick lesson plan you might like to give. Talk through what it’ll look like from start to finish, why exactly you decided to take that approach, and allow the interviewer to ask questions about your process.

If you’re leaning on a past experience, also highlight the parts of the lesson you would change based on how it went—which will demonstrate your ability to adapt and grow as you teach.

17. What questions do you have for me?

While this might seem like one of the easiest interview questions in the book, it’s one you should actively prepare for with thoughtful queries targeted at the specific interviewer and role. It's essential to consider in advance what questions you should ask at a teaching interview to make a strong impression and gain valuable insights.

“Don’t just ask, when can I expect to hear something?” Swartz says. If you do have a question about next steps, make it your last one after you’ve posed others. Until that point, “Ask some serious questions about that school. That’s your opportunity to interview them as much as they’re interviewing you, and they are going to respect that,” Swartz says. “Any question that candidates ask where I can see that they’ve done their research about the position is a great question to me.”

Here are a few suggestions of questions to ask in a teacher interview to get the ball rolling, but be sure to come up with your own specific queries about the school and role:

• What do you wish you knew about [role]/[company or school] when you first started?
• What qualities make someone successful here?
• What are you most excited to work on/accomplish at [company or school] right now?
• What drew you to [company or school]?

Read More: 51 Great Questions to Ask in an Interview

Bonus teacher interview questions

In addition to the questions above, you might get queries like these:

18.  Tell me about yourself.

19.  Why are you interested in teaching at this school?

20.  What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

21. How do you use technology in the classroom?

22. What would you do if a student is in danger of failing your class?

23. What adjectives would you use to describe your presence in the classroom?

24.  How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?

25.  What makes you unique?

26.  List three words that best describe you.

27. Tell me about a time when you helped someone become more successful.

28.  Tell me about a time you faced a conflict with a student, parent, or other teacher.

29. What is your experience with remote instruction?

30. During the COVID-19 pandemic , how did you ensure your class stayed on track and engaged and learned as much as possible?

31. Do you have any experience teaching a student with an IEP? How did you ensure their success?

Some extra tips for nailing your teaching interview

• Research the school and what they care about: “A lot of schools now in particular have a really specific focus,” Findley says. For example, “I used to work at a school that was really focused on character goals.” Knowing a school’s focus going into your interview will help you show you would bring that same passion. And when you go to tell a story or answer a question, Sheppard adds, “It sounds obvious, but your response needs to be relevant to the job that you’re applying for.” Make sure you’re considering what this role entails and the mission or values of the school and tailoring your response accordingly.
• Dress for the job: “If you show up in a three-piece suit at a school building they’re going to be like, ‘Do you know where you’re going to teach?’” Swartz says. While “you need to dress to a level that communicates that you are serious and interested about this job,” he says, you should also remember that interviewers want to see that you know what it means to work with students. If in doubt, try going business casual.
• Pay attention to non-verbal communication and brush up on other interview skills : When planning out your responses, don’t just think about what you’re going to say but also how you’re going to say it. “I always look at body language first,” Brown says. When someone looks frazzled or caught off guard by a basic question, “I start to question, OK, can you really handle that kind of population or have you handled this kind of situation before?”

Most importantly, “Be confident in what you already know and your experiences prior,” Brown says. Be yourself—or rather, your professional self—and you’re sure to land the right teaching job for you.

Regina Borsellino also contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Win a $100 gift card each day this month! 🎁

55+ Important Teacher Interview Questions (Plus Answers)

Plus a free printable list of questions.

Getting ready to interview for a new teaching job? You’re probably excited but also nervous. The best way to overcome those nerves is to prepare in advance. Take a look at this list of the most common teacher interview questions and answers. Practice your responses, and you’ll feel much more confident when you walk through that door.

Check out the questions and tips for answering below. Plus fill out the form on this page to grab your free printable list of questions to help you prepare for your next interview.

Remember, though, that interviews are a two-way street. Impressing your interviewers is important, of course. But so is finding out if this school is a place where you’ll truly thrive. That’s why in addition to the most common teacher interview questions and answers, we’ve also included five questions you should consider asking when the opportunity arises. Make your interview time count for everyone involved!

• General Experience and Goals Questions
• Teaching Experience Questions
• Philosophies and Strategies Questions
• Teaching Challenges Questions
• Community and Colleagues Questions
• 5 Questions to Ask Your Interviewers

Teacher Interview Questions About Professional Experience and Goals

Why did you decide to become a teacher.

It seems like a trite softball question, but don’t let that fool you. Most administrators are looking for something more than “I’ve just always loved kids.” If you don’t have a substantive answer, then why are you even applying? Schools want to know you are dedicated to enriching the lives of students. Answer honestly with anecdotes or examples that paint a clear picture of the journey that you took to become a teacher.

Why do you want to teach at this school?

Research, research, and research more  before your interview. Google everything you can about the school. Do they have a theater program? Are the students involved in the community? What type of culture does the principal promote? Use social media to see what the school proudly promoted most recently. Then, ask around. Use your network of colleagues to find out what (current and former) teachers loved and hated about it. The point of all this digging? You need to know if this school is a good fit for you. If it is a good fit, you’ll demonstrate how much you want the job by explaining how you would get involved with all the amazing school programs you’ve heard so much about!

Which component of your résumé are you most proud of and why?

Pride may come before a fall, but if asked about your accomplishments, don’t be bashful about conveying your worth. Have you won a grant for classroom materials? Share the details and how they helped your students succeed. Did you receive an award for excellence in instruction? Talk about how the application process helped you reflect and grow. If you’re a recent graduate, you can still brag on yourself: Describe your student-teaching experience and how it prepared you for opportunities like the job opening you’re vying for. Small things, like professional organization memberships, can also help you relay your interest in staying up-to-date on the latest educational research and best professional development.

What three words would your peers, administrators, or students use to describe you?

Having been caught off-guard by this prompt at a previous competitive interview, I would encourage you to have some thoughtful options to describe yourself. It’s tempting to say things you think your new boss might want to hear, like intelligent or hardworking , but don’t discount character traits or terms that paint you as a team player among peers and a role model for students. Some options to consider are empathetic , creative , caring , or cooperative .

What are you learning right now?

It’s no secret that successful teachers pursue professional development opportunities whenever they get the chance. Share a PD book you’ve been reading, a recent TED Talk that inspired you, or something new about your subject matter you’ve been brushing up on. Show your interviewers that you’re engaged in exploring new information and always willing to learn.

Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years?

Universally, this is probably one of the most common interview questions, and a teacher should definitely be prepared to answer it. With more teachers leaving the classroom than ever before, many districts are going to be looking for educators who are ready to stay put for the foreseeable future. That being said, if your dream is to become a principal, reading specialist, or some other role within the district, it’s OK to mention that. However, it’s probably wise to state that your main goal is to be the best classroom teacher you can be and see what opportunities arise after 5 or 10 years.

Interview Questions About Teaching Experience

What has been your greatest teaching success so far.

Go ahead and brag! This is your place to share the time you reached a really troubled student, or raised your class’s average standardized test scores by five points, or were voted teacher of the year. Be sure to share how you achieved your success, including any help from others, and what you learned and carried forward with you from the experience.

What has been your biggest teaching challenge? How did you handle it?

Choose a challenge directly related to education that you’ve overcome or are actively working on. Include details about your own evaluation of the problem, help or advice you got from others, and the plan you made to work toward improvement. This question is really all about how you grow and change in the face of adversity.

What experience do you have teaching this age/grade level? What do you like most about it? What’s challenging about teaching students at this age/grade?

If you don’t have any experience at all with this particular age/grade level, this can be a tough question. If you haven’t taught kids this age, but you have worked with them in another capacity, like a club or other organization, use those examples instead. One note: It can be tempting to answer this question by saying, “Well, I’m a parent, and when my kids were this age I …” But remember that parenting and teaching styles are often very different, and your interviewers want to know how you handle this group overall, not just your own children.

Have you ever made a mistake with a student? What happened, and how did you address it?

This is one of those tough but important teacher interview questions that’s more common than you may think. Your interviewer is asking you to be a bit vulnerable here, but be careful with your choice of anecdote. While we’ve all made mistakes when dealing with students, what you’re really looking for is an example where you made a mistake and then addressed it appropriately . Think carefully about a situation in which you didn’t handle things as well as you could have, but you got it right in the end. Explain why you handled it the way you did initially, what caused you to reflect and change your mind, and how the situation was resolved.

Describe a troubling student you’ve taught. What did you do to get through to them?

This question addresses more than just your reluctant learners. This speaks to any discipline measures you’ve had to address. As a teacher, you need to control the classroom and provide a safe space for all of your students. Think about your approach to troubling students and any successes you’ve had in the past.

How do you think COVID-19 has affected today’s students? What changes have you observed, and how have you dealt with them in your classroom?

While these teacher interview questions have only been asked in more recent years, they’re becoming common, so it’s important to prepare your answers. They might actually be easier if you’re interviewing for your first teaching job. If that’s you, feel free to explain that while you don’t have a basis for comparison that others might, your classroom management plan is set up with today’s kids in mind.

If, however, you’re a veteran teacher, take more time to prep for these questions. Many educators have been quite vocal about the negative emotional, behavioral, and mental changes they’ve noticed in their students post-COVID. If you’ve had similar experiences, you can be honest about them. But make sure you explain what steps you’ve taken to address these changes in a proactive and positive way. No school district wants to hire a teacher who is going to throw up their hands and proclaim, “These kids just don’t listen anymore!” Let them know you are going to meet your students where they are and help them reach your high standards.

Tell us about a time when …

Good interviewers ask a lot of questions about your personal experiences. You should strive to weave your experiences throughout all your answers, but especially those that specifically ask for examples of a real-life experience. That’s why it’s helpful to think about teacher interview questions like these in advance.

Try to choose examples directly related to your teaching experience when possible, and steer away from your personal life unless the question directly targets it. (And even then, it’s up to you how much you share about your personal life—don’t overshare!) Even new graduates should have plenty of classroom experience from student teaching or internships. Here are some questions to prepare for.

Tell us about a time when:

• You helped a student succeed when they were struggling
• A student was being bullied, and how you handled it
• You had to make a difficult decision quickly, how you made it, and the consequences of that decision
• A student’s behavior seriously disrupted the classroom, and how you handled it
• You felt overwhelmed in the classroom, and how you coped
• A parent seemed to be doing their child more harm than good, and how you addressed it
• A student challenged your authority in the classroom, and how you handled it
• You received negative feedback, and how you addressed it at the time and in the future

Teaching Philosophies and Strategies Interview Questions

What is your teaching philosophy.

This is one of the most common, as well as one of the trickiest, teacher interview questions. Don’t answer with a clichéd, generic response. In fact, your response is your teaching mission statement . It’s the answer to why you’re a teacher. It’s helpful if you write out your mission statement before the interview and practice reciting it. Discussing your teaching philosophy is a chance to show off why you’re passionate, what you want to accomplish, and how you are going to apply it in this new position, in a new classroom, at a new school.

What do you think students expect and need from their teachers? How will you meet those expectations?

This can also be a tricky question. Avoid phrases like “Students want teachers to be their friend.” Instead, target specific expectations, like “They want to be supported and feel that their teacher respects their opinions and feelings.” Consider other expectations like a safe classroom environment, the freedom to ask for help when they need it, flexibility under difficult circumstances, and open-minded approaches to teaching and learning.

How does a teacher’s personality affect their success? What would you say your “teacher personality” is?

Again, this answer is all about the wording. Avoid phrases like “I’m the mean teacher” or “I’m the fun teacher.” Instead, be thoughtful about how you present yourself to students and parents. Are you stern but fair? Entertaining but also focused on achievement? Kind but able to control misbehavior when needed? Think about how you truly approach teaching, and be honest. This question will help everyone determine if you’re a good fit for the position.

How do you approach lesson planning?

How detailed are you? What do you do to ensure your lessons meet standards and achieve learning goals? How do you build flexibility into your plans? Do you work from the same set of lesson plans each year or make changes and adaptations along the way? Do you create your own lessons or look for quality resources from others? Your interviewer wants to get a sense of how you prepare for classes, and whether you’re able to adjust and adapt as needed. Need ideas? Take a look at these 30 lesson plan examples.

How do you accommodate different learning styles in your classroom?

First, ensure you understand what learning styles are (visual, auditory, etc.) and how they work. Then, provide examples of differentiating a specific lesson for the various styles. Find more information about learning styles and how to accommodate them here.

Provide some examples of how you differentiate your lessons or learning activities.

Differentiation is a hot topic in education and refers to customizing the content, process, product, and learning environment for various situations and students. Make sure you have a thorough understanding of differentiated instruction , and find examples of differentiated instruction strategies here .

How will you help students prepare for standardized testing success?

Standardized tests are another hot topic, and you’ll likely be asked at least one question about them. Regardless of your own opinions, be prepared to share how you help students overcome test anxiety by preparing well and applying good test-taking strategies .

What are some methods you use to check for understanding as you’re teaching?

It’s one thing to prepare a high-quality lesson plan, but if students are not following along, what’s the use? Explain how your instruction will be responsive to students’ needs. Will you incorporate tech tools for assessments ? Or implement exit slips summarizing what they’ve learned? Do you have a quick-check method, like thumbs-up/thumbs-down, to quickly scan for understanding?

How do you assess students’ progress?

Break out all your knowledge on the types of assessment in education and share how you implement the different kinds in your classroom. Explain the types of quizzes you give because you know that they’re most telling about students’ strengths and weaknesses. Give insight into how you use oral reports, group projects, and seat work to determine who’s struggling and who’s ahead. Tell them about any useful digital assessment tools and how they help. We’ve got lots of useful information about assessment in education here if you need some new ideas.

Describe your classroom management structure.

If you’re a veteran teacher, discuss how you handled your classroom in the past. Give specific examples of things that worked the best and why. If you’re new, then explain what you learned as a student teacher and how you’ll map out a plan to run your first classroom. No matter how long you’ve been teaching, familiarize yourself with the school district’s philosophies on classroom management and discipline. Mention how you’ll incorporate their philosophy and stay true to your own. If you’re unable to find out much about the school’s policies beforehand, ask the interviewer to explain.

Do you have classroom rules? How did you develop them, and how do you share them with students to ensure they’re followed?

Do you create your rules in advance and post them in the classroom? If so, share how you identified the rules worth keeping and enforcing. If you prefer to develop rules with your students at the beginning of the year, explain why and share the process. Get tips on developing classroom rules here.

What behavior management strategies do you find most effective? Least effective?

Do you use charts to track behavior? Give prizes for success, or punishment for rule breakers? What do you do when a student is struggling emotionally? How do you work with parents to deal with problem behavior? There’s a lot to consider here. Take a look at these classroom management strategies if you need some tips.

How do you incorporate social-emotional learning in your lessons?

Many states and districts have added requirements for social-emotional learning to their standards. Explain how you will not only tend to the academic needs of your students but tie in lessons that satisfy the core SEL competencies . Describe how you will help students build their self-awareness and social-awareness skills, how you will support them in building relationships, and how you will give them the skills to make responsible decisions. Find lots of easy ways to incorporate SEL throughout your school day here.

How do you use technology in the classroom?

Technology is at the forefront of education, so your interview is the time to show off that you’re savvy. Talk about why you’re excited to use technology with students. How did you manage remote classrooms and engage students? What technology did you incorporate and use while teaching at home and in the classroom? Your administration needs teachers who are tech-savvy and have innovative thinking around technology, so take a look at our extensive resources for more .

What role do you believe diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives should play in your classroom and in the school?

Questions about DEI initiatives, policies, and mindsets are challenging but have definitely become standard in most teacher interviews. Many school districts want to know that incoming educators are open to having the challenging conversations and doing the difficult work of building anti-racist curriculum and policies. In more traditional districts, interviewers might be on the lookout for teachers whose views might be “too progressive” for the parents in their schools. Answer these questions truthfully. If you feel strongly that anti-racist policies are important and want DEI initiatives to be respected and valued in the district where you work, you should know that before you accept a teaching position.

What are your thoughts about grades?

Grading and assessment are set to become hot topics in education in the next few years. While many feel that we’ve become lax in grading during the pandemic and want to tighten up traditional grading, others are arguing for drastically changing our grading systems . Regardless of what you believe personally about this issue, it’s a good idea to start by knowing how the district you are interviewing in handles grades. You can (and should!) absolutely discuss how you believe standards-based grading to be superior to traditional methods, but make sure you also state that you can and will follow district protocols and believe you can accurately measure student learning in this way.

How will you encourage parents to support their children’s education?

The home-school connection is imperative yet tough to maintain. Administrators lean on teachers to keep open lines of communication with parents. They even see you as a “publicist” for the school, reinforcing the culture, strengths, and values of the school to parents. So, answer this question with concrete ideas. Share how parents will volunteer in your classroom and how you’ll maintain regular contact, providing updates on both positive and negative events. Plus, how will you deal with overinvolved, so-called “helicopter parents” ?

What do you expect from your relationship with school administrators? What support do you hope to receive from them?

Your new principal or team lead wants to know what it’s like to work with you. Will you expect a lot of hand-holding, or are you more independent? What type of supervision helps you thrive? Give concrete examples of ways you think administrators can better support teachers . Be tactful but honest.

What did/do you like/dislike about working remotely?

If you were working or going to school during the pandemic, you’re likely going to be asked about how you dealt with the challenges of working remotely . Be honest. If you hated teaching via Zoom and couldn’t wait to get back to in-person instruction, you can say so. You may want to add, however, that you appreciated the opportunity to learn more about how technology could be used to engage different learners. Similarly, if you loved teaching from home, but you’re applying for an in-person position, you may want to be clear about the fact that while you loved being able to be at home, you love building relationships with your students in person more.

Teacher Interview Questions About Handling Challenges

What is the greatest challenge facing teachers today.

Remote learning? Hybrid learning? Diversity and inclusion? Social-emotional learning? Engaging parents? The challenges are plenty! Think about your specific school, district, city, and state. What issue is most pressing , and what can you, as a teacher, do to help?

What is the greatest challenge facing students today?

Think about the specific population at the school where you’re interviewing. What major issues do those kids face? Prejudice and intolerance? Parental support? Uncertainty about their futures? Remember to include how you feel you can help address those challenges in your response.

How would you handle a parent challenging your teaching methods/curriculum/classroom management?

Even a district that is going to strongly support its teachers against parent complaints may ask how you will handle such conflicts when they arise. This is a great opportunity to discuss how you stay calm in tense situations. Discussing how you prefer to call parents who are upset rather than emailing, or how you would forward particularly angry emails to a supervisor just to keep everyone in the loop, are excellent ways to show that you are a calm and proactive educator.

What impact does trauma have on student learning? How do you address this in your classroom?

Whew, questions like these are tough. As our understanding of the role trauma plays in learning grows, the need for educators to know about it and how to deal with it in their classrooms does as well. If you’ve received professional development on the topic, this is a perfect opportunity to show off a bit. If not, take some time to learn more about how trauma can affect not only students but the individuals who work with them . That way, you’ll feel more comfortable discussing the issue when it comes up.

How do you cope with stress?

This one didn’t always appear on older lists of common teacher interview questions and answers, but it’s showing up now big-time. School administrators are well aware of the toll teaching in today’s world takes on educators’ mental health and wellness. While they, hopefully, are taking steps to help their teachers deal with the stress and challenges of the job, they want to know if you have coping strategies in place. This is a great place to talk about hobbies, family/friends, and anything else outside the job that you turn to when things get tough. It’s important to note that this is also a great opportunity for you to ask the interviewer what steps their district has taken to prioritize teacher health and wellness.

What’s your least favorite subject or topic to teach? How do you ensure you teach it well?

It’s OK to say that math isn’t your thing, or that you dread teaching Romeo and Juliet to 9th graders! No one expects you to love everything you teach. But they do expect you to be able to approach every topic on your syllabus with knowledge, skills, and a certain level of enthusiasm. Share how you do that with topics that you find dull as dishwater or downright difficult to teach.

How can you meet the needs of a student with an IEP ?

Today’s inclusive classrooms require that teachers know how to meet each child’s unique educational needs, especially those with disabilities. Perhaps most importantly, meeting the needs of students with IEPs (and 504 plans) is required by law. Districts definitely want to hear that you know that and you will be following those legal requirements. Even if you have not worked extensively with special needs students, educate yourself on the process and be familiar with the lingo. Prepare a couple of examples of ways you can differentiate instruction to support their particular needs.

How would you handle a situation in which you believe a student doesn’t need all of the accommodations listed in their IEP?

This is a variation of the last question, and it’s also a bit of a “gotcha” question. It’s important to remember that special education paperwork is legally binding. If an IEP states that a student gets extended time to complete work, preferential seating, or any other specially designed instruction, they have to receive it , or the district has broken the law. An administrator or principal who asks this question wants to know that you are aware of how important following a student’s IEP is and that you won’t ignore things when you don’t think they are needed. Make sure you express that you understand that.

Want to make your answer even stronger? Acknowledge that part of your job as a teacher is to monitor how a student is performing and let the student’s case manager (or whoever is writing their IEP) know if you believe they do not need a particular support or if they need more. This way, you demonstrate a strong understanding of how the IEP works and that you play an important role as a member of that student’s support team.

How will you meet the needs of English-language learners (ESL/ELL) in your classroom?

In many classrooms today, you’ll find students whose families don’t speak English at home. Some of them may be fluent English speakers already, but others will need extra support as they learn the language and stay on top of their other academic subjects. Be prepared to discuss how you’ll deal with multiple languages in the classroom , and how you can communicate with families who don’t speak English well or at all.

How will you meet the needs of the students in your class who are advanced or say they’re bored?

School leaders don’t want to hear canned responses about how you can differentiate; they want you to give some concrete answers and support your ideas . Perhaps you help get kids prepared for scholastic competitions once they’ve mastered the standard (spelling bee or chemistry olympiad, anyone?). Maybe you offer more advanced poetry schemes for your English classes or alternate problem-solving methods for your math students. Whatever it is, make sure that you express the importance that all students are engaged, even the ones who are already sure to pass the state standardized test.

How will you engage reluctant learners?

Teaching in an age when we must compete with TikTok, Snapchat, and other forms of instant entertainment makes this question valid and necessary. How will you keep students engaged ? Share specific incentive policies, lessons you’ve used, or ways you’ve built relationships to keep students on task. An anecdote of how a past student (remember to protect privacy) that you taught was turned on to your subject because of your influence would also help your credibility here.

If the majority of your class failed a test or other assignment, how would you handle it?

What’s your position on test re-takes? What about when just about everyone fails to meet expectations? Is that a reflection on your teaching methods or on the students themselves? Be prepared to defend your position, and explain your plan for moving forward.

How do you feel about classroom observations and walk-throughs?

This one sounds simple, but be careful. It’s fine to say observations make you nervous, but most administrators want teachers who are comfortable with other adults seeing what goes on in their classroom. This is a great chance to talk about how exciting you find it to share all the wonderful learning activities that happen in your classroom with students’ parents and administration, even if you still get a bit nervous when being observed by other adults.

Interview Questions About Communities and Colleagues

Tell us about your experiences with team teaching or co-teaching. do you find it beneficial.

Classroom collaboration is becoming more common, even if you’re not applying specifically for a co-teaching position. Share any experience you have working as part of an educational team, especially when you’ve shared classroom duties. Be honest about how you feel about sharing your classroom with another teacher, and don’t be afraid to ask if co-teaching is expected in this role. See our co-teaching tips here.

Which activities, clubs, or sports are you willing to sponsor if you are offered a position?

While this expectation may be more real for middle and secondary teachers, being the new kid on the block often comes with a conversion of your title from teacher to coach. If athletics isn’t one of your strengths, you can still get an edge on your competition by sponsoring a science club, yearbook, or academic team. You might also share a special skill, like knitting or creative writing, and offer to teach it to interested students.

What do you feel you can contribute to our school’s PLC for your subject?

The days of shutting your door to do your own thing are out, and professional learning communities are in! Go in ready to discuss topics such as common planning, benchmarks, and data analysis. This is a key time to highlight your strengths. Whether you shine in making high-level DOK assessment questions or have a plethora of student-centered activities for your subject, let the interviewers know what you have to offer to your prospective peers and what you hope to glean from collaborating with them.

Have you ever worked with a teaching mentor? Tell us about the value of that experience.

Some schools have strong mentoring programs, pairing new teachers with experienced educators to help guide them as they start their career. Share your own experiences honestly if you have them. If your mentor was a great support to you , share examples. If you felt the experience was less than helpful, share what you wish your mentor had done instead.

Would you consider becoming a teaching mentor? What do you think you have to share with the next generation of educators?

Experienced teachers may face this question, especially when applying to a school with a strong mentoring program in place. If mentoring is new to you, take time to learn about the process . Then consider how you’d mentor a new educator, and give concrete examples in your response.

What do you think is the larger community’s role in education? How would you help your students see their part in their community?

This is a terrific opportunity to work project-based learning (or problem-based learning) into your interview. Share ways you encourage students to address real-life issues in their communities and how those experiences have benefited them. Or talk about a time you got the community involved in a school event or cause, raising money or working directly with students (like tutoring or coaching).

Best Questions To Ask in Teacher Interviews

At the end of almost every interview, you’ll be asked, “Do you have any questions?” This might seem like it’s just a way to wrap things up, but it’s actually one of the most important parts of the interview. In addition to practicing your answers to the most common teacher interview questions, you should prepare a handful of questions to ask your interviewer.

“The way some job candidates handle the portion of the interview where it’s their turn to ask questions has always surprised me,” shares Alison Green, workplace advice columnist and author of How To Get a Job: Secrets of a Hiring Manager . “A lot of people don’t have many questions at all—which is ill-advised when you’re considering spending 40+ hours a week at the job and when it is likely to have a huge impact on your day-to-day quality of life.”

On her incredibly popular Ask a Manager advice website, Green shares 10 questions that will help you find out if you truly want the job you’re interviewing for . “To be fair, a lot of people worry about what questions are okay to ask,” she notes. “They’re concerned about seeming demanding or nitpicky.” You don’t need to ask 10 questions, of course. Choose a few that seem the most important to you. We like these five in particular for teaching positions:

1. What are some of the challenges you expect the teacher in this position to face?

Green points out this can get you information that might not have already been shared. You might learn that parents are overly involved or not involved at all, or that resources are stretched incredibly thin, or that teachers here regularly work 60-hour weeks. This could lead to a discussion about how you’ve faced similar challenges in the past, or it can simply give you some points to think about as you consider the job.

2. How would you describe your school’s culture? What types of teachers tend to thrive here, and what types don’t do as well?

School cultures vary widely, and not all teachers thrive in every environment. Find out if this school will expect you to regularly attend extracurricular events, or if your time out of the classroom is truly your own. Do teachers work closely with admin, or is it more of an “everyone is on their own” atmosphere? Think hard about whether you’re the sort of person to fit in with this school’s culture. This can help you decide if this role is really right for you.

3. How long did the previous teacher in the role hold the position? What has turnover in the role generally been like?

It’s OK to probe a little to see what others’ experiences have been. “If no one has stayed in the job very long, that could be a red flag about a difficult manager, unrealistic expectations, lack of training, or some other land mine,” Green cautions. It’s also worth knowing if you’re interviewing to take over the position a beloved teacher has held for 30 years. Will your school be open to fresh new ideas, or are they looking for someone to match up to a previous teacher’s reputation?

4. Thinking back to teachers you’ve seen hold this role previously, what differentiated the ones who were good from the ones who were really great?

Green calls this the “magic question” and has had multiple readers write in to tell her how much it impressed their interviewers! “The thing about this question is that it goes straight to the heart of what the hiring manager is looking for,” enthuses Green. “Hiring managers aren’t interviewing candidates in the hopes of finding someone who will do an average job; they’re hoping to find someone who will excel at the job.” This question shows you really want to be a great teacher, and it might offer you a chance to mention something about yourself that hasn’t already come up in earlier discussion.

5. What’s your timeline for next steps?

While this shouldn’t be your only question, it’s definitely OK to use this one as you’re wrapping up. As Green says, “It’s much better for your quality of life if you know that you’re not likely to hear anything for two weeks or four weeks … or whatever the case might be.” Then, if you haven’t heard anything in that time frame, you can follow up (once only!) to see where things stand.

Get Your Free Printable List of Teacher Interview Questions

Just fill out the form on this page for instant access to a printable list of teacher interview questions. Keep it on file with your résumé, and use it to prepare for your next interview. You can practice answering the questions on your own or give the list to a friend or family member to role-play your answers.

Want to ask for more advice as you prepare for a big teacher interview? Come join the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook to chat with educators near and far!

Plus, check out what to wear to a teacher interview., you might also like.

What Are Learning Styles, and How Should Teachers Use Them?

Encourage every student to explore material in a variety of ways. Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

30 Common Teacher Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

• Why Do You Want To Be A Teacher?
• Why Do You Want To Be A Doctor?
• Police Officer Interview Questions
• Why Do You Want To Be A Police Officer?
• Why Do You Want To Be An Accountant?
• Sales Interview Questions
• Interview Questions For Managers
• Retail Interview Questions
• Teacher Interview Questions
• Accounting Interview Questions
• Teaching Philosophy Examples
• Management Philosophy Examples
• Leadership Philosophy
• What Does Customer Service Mean To You

Find a Job You Really Want In

Being a teacher can be incredibly rewarding for many. To get your dream teaching job, you first need to ace your interview. The best way to do this is to review common teacher interview questions.

Whether you’re interviewing for your first teaching job or you’re a seasoned professional, it’s always a good idea to put in some solid preparation time before your meeting. In this article, we’ll go over 30 common teacher interview questions, as well as some example answers to get an understanding of what interviewers are looking for. We’ll also provide some tips and common mistakes to avoid when answering.

Key Takeaways:

Interviewers are looking for your expertise in subject matter, interpersonal abilities, and your teaching skills during interviews.

When answering questions it’s important to be confident and honest in your answers.

Make sure to do your research and prepare talking points and your own questions to ask before going into the interview.

How to answer teacher interview questions

13 common teacher interview questions and sample answers, 17 additional teacher interview questions, what hiring managers are looking for in a teacher interview, teacher interview tips, common interview mistakes to avoid, teacher interview questions faq.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

When answering teacher interview questions , you should demonstrate your technical skills and knowledge by telling a story and providing examples from your past. Here is a more detailed list of how to answer teacher interview questions:

Be confident and honest. There is a difference between being confident and being cocky. Being confident is knowing your value and communicating that to interviewers.

Demonstrate your technical skills and knowledge. You should be comfortable with using common lingo and show that you know your stuff. If this means you need to study up a little bit before your interview, do that, but be ready to talk about common philosophies, trends, and industry leaders.

Listen well. Don’t spend the whole interview thinking about what you’re going to say next. Listen closely to the interviewers as they’re telling you things about the school and asking you questions. They can tell that you’re paying attention, and your answers will be better because of it.

Tell a story when you can. Even if they don’t ask you for an example like they would in a situational interview question , interviewers want to see examples of your work in the past. They know you can say one thing and do another, so paint a picture of how you’ve lived out your answers whenever possible.

End on a high note. If you’re talking about a weakness you have, a challenge you faced, or a mistake you made, end on a positive note and explain how you responded to it. Talk about what you learned from the experience or what steps you’re taking to correct a weakness.

Here is a list of some common teacher interview questions and sample answers to help you understand what the interviewers are looking for when they ask each one.

Why do you want to be a teacher?

This question is an opportunity to share a little about yourself and what you’re passionate about. It’s also an opportunity to show what you bring to the table as an instructor . Be sure to include both of these factors in your answer.

Example answer:

“I’ve always had a love for learning, and I believe that much of that love came from a few of my teachers who combined their passion for learning with their deep care for their students. “I want to connect with students individually and help them fall in love with learning in their own way, as every student does this differently. Those are the skills they’ll take with them for the rest of their lives.”

Why do we teach [insert subject] in school?

No matter what subjects you’re teaching, schools want to know the reason why you teach them. Saying something generic like, “So students can graduate and get good jobs” isn’t enough. Explain why you value the subject and how you’re going to relay that to your students.

“I believe that the true purpose of English and literature courses is to teach students how to think and how to appreciate other perspectives. My goal is that they walk away from my classes with those skills , even if they don’t remember what iambic pentameter is for the rest of their lives.”

Why do you want to work for our school district?

This is a question that requires some preliminary research. Before your interview, look up the school or district’s mission and vision and glance through their social media pages to see what kinds of stories they’re highlighting. Pay attention to what strikes a chord with you and how you’d fit in with the school’s culture .

“I admire West Lake’s philosophy about valuing both excellence and relationships. No student can succeed when they don’t feel safe and cared for, and helping them be their best is an important piece of caring for them. I’d love to be a part of furthering that culture.”

Describe your teaching philosophy and approach to education.

When you answer this, be honest, but try to frame your answer in a way that reflects the school’s philosophy. Interviewers want to see that you’re ready and willing to further the larger organization rather than just your own ambition.

“I try to balance school and state requirements with relating to my students’ individual needs. I know that students won’t perform well on tests if they don’t understand the material. “Some students may grasp math concepts through lectures, but others won’t as easily, so I try to create as many hands-on learning opportunities as possible through projects and visuals. These help not only the students who struggle to learn through lectures, but they also solidify the material for those who do.”

How would you handle a difficult student?

If you can, explain how you handled a problematic student in the past, remembering to include the steps you took and the results of your efforts. If you’re interviewing for a student teaching job or internship and don’t have this experience, outline how you would approach the problem, focusing on collaboration instead of pure discipline.

“The first thing I would do is have a private conversation with the student where I’d try to get to the root of the problem. Once we find the root issue, I’d then work with them to come up with creative solutions. If we couldn’t do that, I’d involve the parents in the conversation. “For example, I had a student who would become disruptive only during independent work. After talking with her about it, I learned that she struggled to concentrate when it was perfectly quiet. I started playing soft music during these times, and she settled down much more easily.”

What frustrates you most about teaching?

Be honest when you answer this question, but be sure to include how you work through your frustration. Everyone has things they struggle with, but your interviewer is looking to see how you overcome difficulties instead of just listening to you complain.

“I’m most frustrated when I’m not able to meet every student where they’re at. At my last position, I had a large class size with a wide variety of abilities. I knew some of the kids were getting bored while others were totally overwhelmed. “I implemented a tutoring program where students who were ahead could work with struggling students to help them with their assignments. This kept the previously bored students engaged and helped lessen the load for the ones who were struggling.”

How do you motivate your students?

This is one of the most essential parts of being a teacher, so interviewers will want to know how you do this. Remember that there’s no “right” way to motivate students. However, hiring managers ask this question to learn if your methods for motivating students aligns with the school’s vision and methodology, so keep those elements in mind when answering.

“I’ve found that sixth-graders love competitions, so I try to create as many fun ones as possible. Whether it’s individuals competing against each other, individuals beating their own high scores, teams competing against teams, or a class-wide goal to hit, I’ve found that these activities are powerful motivators. “I balance the competitions so that they stay fun for everyone and so that the same people don’t win them every time. It’s amazing how into it everyone gets, and it’s a great opportunity to teach good sportsmanship along with the material we’re working on.

How do you evaluate your students?

Evaluating your students is another vital piece of teaching, so your interviewers will want to hear your thoughts on this as well. Give examples when you can, but be sure you include your basic thought processes behind what you do, as well as your more technical teaching techniques and philosophies.

“I use formal methods such as tests and quizzes alongside more informal ones such as in-class work, reports, and activities. I take the feedback from both areas seriously, as I’ve had some students perform well in class and not on the quizzes and tests. “After talking with these students and their parents further, I was able to get them help with their test-taking techniques. Their scores went up significantly throughout the rest of the year.”

How do you communicate and work with parents?

Being able to work with parents is key to your students’ success. Schools want to hire teachers who are proactive about this, so they’ll likely ask you about it in an interview. This is another opportunity to give examples of your past work and share philosophies you have about this subject.

“The key to successful students is support from both their teachers and their parents, so I work to get to know the most influential adults in my students’ lives early on. “At the beginning of the year, I hold individual meetings with the parents. I ask them about their home life and anything that might make their child unique. Then throughout the rest of the year, I meet with them regularly to share their child’s wins and work to find solutions to difficulties as quickly as possible.”

What are you learning right now?

As a professional in any field, you should never stop learning and growing, and this is especially true for teachers. Interviewers want to know how you’re doing this, even if it isn’t directly related to teaching. Take this opportunity to share about other things you’re passionate about and what you like to do in your free time.

“I’ve always been fascinated by breadmaking, so I decided to take an online class and learn how to do it myself. I’ve already mastered whole wheat bread, and now I’m working on sourdough!”

Why should we hire you to teach here?

This question is asked in nearly every interview across all industries. Share what makes you unique and how you would further the school’s goals . This is another reason for you to research the school ahead of time.

“I know you value innovation in the classrooms, and I’m always looking for new ways to improve what I do. For example, at my last job , I implemented math projects that made the lessons more fun and engaging. “My students’ average test scores at the end of the year were 10% higher than the semester before when we hadn’t done those projects.”

How would you get your classroom ready for the first day of school?

Interviewers don’t just want to know about your decorating abilities; they want to see that you have an organized plan. Share the why behind your decisions as much as what you’d do.

“I want my students to feel welcome and to know what I expect of them. There are few things more frustrating as a child than not knowing what an authority figure wants from them. “I’d label the desks so that students have a place they know they belong, hang up fun posters that they’d enjoy, and make a cheerful, yet clear list of rules and consequences to hang prominently.”

Can you provide an example of a time when you worked as part of a team to achieve a common goal?

The interviewer will ask you this question to get an understanding of how you collaborate and communicate effectively within a team setting. Use an example from your past to help answer this question.

“In my previous position as a 7th grade science teacher , we were tasked with implementing a new project-based learning (PBL) to enhance student’s critical thinking skills. I was apart of a three teacher team, each with a different subject of expertise. Our goal was to develop a project that would align with the curriculum but also ignite a students curiosity. “I took the lead in developing the science content and assessment rubrics, while my colleagues focused on the math and language arts part. We scheduled regular check-ins to discuss any progress, provide feedback, and refine the project’s details.”

If you’re looking for additional practice questions, here are an additional 17 commonly asked teacher interview questions:

Describe a time when you overcame a difficult challenge.

What are your strengths as a teacher?

What’s your biggest weakness as a teacher?

What do you like best about teaching?

Walk me through a lesson.

Tell me about a time you had to adapt to an unexpected situation.

How do you organize your day to make sure that you get all of your responsibilities done on time?

Tell me about your worst day of teaching.

Tell me about a time you worked with a team to accomplish something.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

How do you differentiate your instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners in your classroom?

How do you handle classroom management and discipline?

What strategies do you use to engage and motivate students?

How do you handle stress and pressure in the teaching profession?

Tell me about a time when you had to adapt your teaching for a student who was struggling to grasp the material.

How do you communicate and collaborate with parents and guardians?

What questions do you have for me?

Hiring mangers are looking for your expertise in subject matter, interpersonal abilities, and your teaching skills in your answers to teacher interview questions. Here is a more detailed list of what hiring managers are looking for in potential teachers:

Expertise in subject matter. Acting as an authoritative source of knowledge is a key function of your role as a teacher. Schools want to hire teachers who can provide accurate information, first and foremost.

That means you need to be comfortable fluently discussing your subject at a level above the highest course you’d be teaching. Your interviewer might even be the department head — in that case, be prepared to show your chops in your field of study.

Interpersonal abilities . K-12 is a particularly busy time in a young person’s life — so much is going on, and navigating the educational system is just one piece of the puzzle for them. As a teacher, you’re a valued community member who can act as a mentor and model for developing minds.

Being personable and approachable are important factors for building and maintaining rapport with students. And students who trust and like their teachers are typically much easier to manage and more likely to excel.

Teaching skills. Classroom management, curriculum development, teaching methodologies, etc. are all things that hiring managers are interested in learning about. The school might have a defined philosophy to all of these elements (and more) or it might encourage a diversity of approaches.

In any case, it’s good to brush up on your pedagogical terminology before the interview, so you’re not caught off guard by a question from your days studying for your teaching degree. Also, consider your teaching philosophy and what techniques you most commonly use for successful results.

Technical skills. With remote learning and other new methodologies emerging, it’s more important than ever for teachers to be tech-savvy (or at least tech-literate). Between creating presentations and other documents, managing grading software, and using other web-based teaching solutions, the more advanced your technical skills , the more attractive of a candidate you’ll be.

Be sure to bring up your experience with remote communication software, presentation programs, and anything else that sells you as a person who won’t be put off by using or learning new technology.

Culture fit. Hiring managers can see your qualifications on your resume . They already know how long you’ve been teaching, and if you’re at the interview stage, they’ve decided that you’re a qualified candidate.

Interviews are held so that they can see how you would further their school’s particular mission and vision and mesh with your coworkers. So don’t be afraid to be yourself and let your personality shine during your meeting.

Teamwork abilities. Working as a teacher means working with other teachers. It’s important to be able to work well with others and work with students to be a teacher.

Commitment to students. One thing that can’t be taught is care for the students. Not everyone has the ability to teach students properly. Interviewers want to make sure you are committed to the students and their success.

Make sure you do your research on the school before the interview and you should prepare some talking points. Here are some more tips to keep in mind when in a teacher interview:

Do your research. Before you show up for your interview, peruse the school’s website to become familiar with their mission, vision, and values. Look up their history and key leaders so that you can recognize them if you meet them.

Prepare some talking points. Come up with two or three points about why you’re the best person for the job, and then make sure you work them into your interview answers.

Dress professionally . Show that you’re serious about getting this position by dressing up more than you would normally. You should still wear clothes appropriate for a teacher, though, especially if you’re interviewing at an elementary school where you’ll need to be able to move easily.

Prepare questions to ask. You’re interviewing the school just as much as they’re interviewing you, so come ready with your own questions to ask . Find out about the school’s culture, teacher support systems, and standards, but don’t ask about salary or time off just yet. Save that for when you receive a job offer .

You should avoid arriving too early or late to your interview and speaking poorly of your previous employer. Here are some more common mistakes to avoid in an interview:

Arriving late or too early. You should be arriving at your interview between 10 and 15 minutes before your interview. This shows that you are respectful of the interviewer’s time and gives you time to prepare and calm any nerves before the interview.

Not preparing questions to ask the interviewer. You should be asking questions during the interview. This helps you get more information on the company and the position. It also shows your interviewer your enthusiasm and interest in the position.

Not researching the company or organization beforehand. You should be using the information on the company that you found in your research in your answers. This helps to show the interviewer that you are interested in the position. Some things you should have an understanding of their company values and their mission.

Not focusing on the questions being asked. You should sleep well and eat something nutritious before the interview. This will help you keep your focus on the interview and what is being asked. You should avoid looking around the room or having closed-off body language when talking with the interviewer.

Speaking poorly of previous employers. Speaking poorly of previous employers can be a red flag for hiring managers. Try to focus on any skills you learned or what you want for your future. Speaking poorly about your previous employer can make the hiring manager see you in a negative light and it could burn bridges.

Neglecting to follow up. Following up after an interview is important. You should send an email within 24 hours of your interview. This helps show your interest and enthusiasm for the position. You should also thank the interviewer in this letter. Following up can help leave a final good impression.

How do I pass my teacher interview?

You should show your passion for teaching and demonstrate your technical skills in your answers. Interviewers want to see your passion for teaching children. Be sure you show your passion and enthusiasm by using examples from your past. This is also how you should demonstrate your technical skills and experiences.

What are some questions to ask at the end of an interview?

Some questions to ask at the end of an interview include:

What is the company culture like?

What is your favorite thing about working for this company?

What are the company’s most important goals right now?

What would an average workday look like?

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Employment Interviewing: Seizing the Opportunity and the Job

U.S. Department of Labor – Interview Tips

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.

Recent Job Searches

• Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
• Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
• Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
• Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
• Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
• Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Company Driver Jobs Resume

Related posts

How To Answer “What Is Your Teaching Philosophy?” (With Examples)

How To Answer Second Interview Questions (With Examples)

How To Answer “What Is Your Desired Salary?” (With Examples)

How To Answer “May We Contact This Employer?” (With Examples)

• Career Advice >
• Interview Questions >

30 Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Common Teacher interview questions, how to answer them, and example answers from a certified career coach.

You’ve made it through the rigorous process of earning your teaching degree, polishing your resume, and now you’re preparing for one of the most important steps in landing your dream job as an educator: the teacher interview.

We’re here to help guide you through some common teacher interview questions, along with advice on how to answer them confidently and effectively. From discussing your classroom management style to showcasing your passion for education, we’ll provide insights that will have you walking into your interview ready to shine.

1. What inspired you to become a teacher?

The journey to becoming a teacher is often a personal and meaningful one. Interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your passion and dedication to the profession. Your answer will reveal your motivations, values, and commitment to education, all of which are essential qualities for a successful teacher. Sharing your inspiration can also help interviewers understand how you will connect with students and create a positive learning environment.

Example: “My inspiration to become a teacher came from my high school history teacher, who had an incredible ability to make the subject come alive and engage students in meaningful discussions. His passion for teaching and genuine interest in our growth as individuals made me realize the profound impact that educators can have on young minds.

I wanted to follow in his footsteps and create a positive learning environment where students feel encouraged to explore their interests, ask questions, and develop critical thinking skills. I believe that by fostering curiosity and a love for learning, teachers can inspire students to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.”

2. How do you stay current with the latest educational research and teaching methods?

Staying up-to-date with the latest educational research and teaching methods is essential to ensuring that your students receive the best possible education. Employers want to know if you are committed to ongoing professional development and if you are proactive in seeking out new ideas, trends, and strategies to improve your teaching practice. By asking this question, they seek to gauge your dedication to growth and adaptability in an ever-evolving educational landscape.

Example: “To stay current with the latest educational research and teaching methods, I actively engage in professional development opportunities and subscribe to relevant publications. I attend workshops, conferences, and webinars that focus on innovative teaching strategies and emerging trends in education. These events not only provide valuable insights but also offer a platform for networking with other educators who share their experiences and best practices.

Furthermore, I follow reputable journals and blogs related to education, as well as participate in online forums and social media groups where teachers discuss new ideas and resources. This helps me stay informed about recent studies and developments in the field. Additionally, I collaborate with my colleagues at school, sharing our findings and discussing how we can implement new approaches in our classrooms. This continuous learning process enables me to adapt my teaching methods to better meet the needs of my students and contribute to their academic success.”

3. Describe your classroom management style.

Your classroom management style directly impacts the learning environment, student behavior, and overall success of your class. Interviewers want to know if your approach aligns with the school’s culture and values, and if you can create a safe, organized, and engaging space where students can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Example: “My classroom management style is a blend of proactive and responsive strategies, with an emphasis on creating a positive learning environment. I believe that setting clear expectations and establishing routines from the beginning helps students understand their roles and responsibilities within the classroom.

To maintain a structured yet flexible atmosphere, I use techniques such as visual cues, verbal reminders, and engaging activities to keep students focused and motivated. When addressing behavioral issues, I prefer using constructive feedback and offering alternative solutions rather than punitive measures. This approach not only fosters mutual respect between the students and me but also encourages them to take ownership of their actions and develop problem-solving skills. Ultimately, my goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where all students feel supported and empowered to learn and grow.”

4. How do you differentiate instruction for students with varying learning styles and abilities?

As a teacher, you’ll be responsible for addressing the diverse learning needs of your students. Differentiating instruction is essential to ensure that each student can access the curriculum and achieve their full potential. Interviewers ask this question to gauge your understanding of this concept and your ability to tailor your teaching methods to accommodate all learners, regardless of their individual strengths and weaknesses. They want to see that you can create an inclusive learning environment and adapt your teaching strategies to meet the needs of every student in your classroom.

Example: “Differentiating instruction is essential to ensure that all students can access the curriculum and achieve their full potential. To accommodate varying learning styles and abilities, I employ a range of teaching strategies and materials in my lessons.

One approach I use is tiered assignments, where I design tasks with different levels of complexity based on students’ readiness levels. This allows each student to engage with the content at an appropriate level of challenge while still working towards the same learning objectives. Additionally, I incorporate multiple modalities into my lessons, such as visual aids, auditory explanations, hands-on activities, and opportunities for group collaboration or individual work. This ensures that students with diverse learning preferences have various ways to process and engage with the material.

Furthermore, I regularly assess students’ progress through formative assessments and adjust my instructional methods accordingly. For instance, if I notice that some students are struggling with a particular concept, I may provide additional support through small-group instruction or one-on-one tutoring. Ultimately, my goal is to create an inclusive learning environment where every student feels supported and empowered to succeed.”

5. Can you provide an example of a lesson plan that incorporates technology in the classroom?

Educational technology has become an essential part of modern teaching, and interviewers want to see how you can seamlessly integrate it into your lesson plans. By asking for an example, they’re looking to gauge your creativity, experience, and ability to engage students with technology in a way that supports their learning and enhances the overall classroom experience.

Example: “Certainly! I recently designed a lesson plan for my 7th-grade history class that incorporated technology to enhance student engagement and learning. The topic was the American Revolution, and the objective was for students to understand the key events and their significance.

I started by introducing the topic through an interactive timeline using a web-based tool called Tiki-Toki. This allowed students to explore the major events of the revolution in a visually appealing way while providing context for each event. Afterward, we had a brief discussion about the events they found most interesting or surprising.

For the main activity, students were divided into small groups and assigned specific battles or events from the revolution. Each group used iPads to research their assigned event and create a short multimedia presentation using Adobe Spark Video. They included images, text, and voiceovers to explain the importance of their event and its impact on the overall outcome of the war.

To wrap up the lesson, each group presented their video to the class, which facilitated further discussion and reinforced the key concepts. This lesson plan not only made effective use of technology but also promoted collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity among the students.”

6. What strategies do you use to engage reluctant learners?

Teachers are charged with sparking enthusiasm for learning in all students, including those who may be less motivated or disinterested. By asking this question, interviewers want to assess your creativity, adaptability, and ability to connect with students who may not immediately engage with the material. Demonstrating your ability to implement diverse strategies to reach and motivate a wide range of learners is key to proving you’re an effective educator.

Example: “One strategy I use to engage reluctant learners is to tap into their interests and incorporate those into the lesson. For example, if a student enjoys sports, I might create math problems that involve calculating player statistics or distances on a field. This helps make the content more relatable and engaging for them.

Another approach is to provide students with choices in how they demonstrate their learning. Offering options such as creating a presentation, writing an essay, or designing a poster allows students to showcase their strengths and take ownership of their work. This sense of autonomy can be particularly motivating for reluctant learners, as it gives them a chance to express themselves creatively while still meeting the learning objectives.”

7. How do you handle conflicts between students in the classroom?

Conflict resolution skills are a must-have for teachers, as classrooms can often be a breeding ground for disagreements and tension. By asking this question, interviewers want to gauge your ability to create a safe and harmonious learning environment. They’re looking for your strategies in addressing conflicts, promoting healthy communication, and fostering empathy among students, all while maintaining your role as an impartial mediator.

Example: “When conflicts arise between students in the classroom, my first priority is to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment. I address the situation promptly by calmly intervening and separating the students involved if necessary. Once the immediate issue is under control, I take time to listen to each student’s perspective individually, allowing them to express their feelings and concerns without interruption.

After gathering information from both parties, I facilitate a discussion between the students to help them understand each other’s viewpoints and find common ground. During this conversation, I emphasize the importance of empathy, active listening, and constructive communication. My goal is to guide them towards resolving the conflict themselves while fostering mutual respect and understanding. If needed, I also involve school counselors or administrators for additional support. This approach not only resolves the current conflict but also equips students with valuable skills they can use throughout their lives.”

8. Describe a time when you had to adapt your teaching approach due to unexpected circumstances.

Adaptability is a key quality for a successful teacher, and unexpected circumstances can arise in various forms, such as technology failures, student behavior issues, or sudden changes in lesson plans. By asking this question, interviewers want to understand how well you can think on your feet, adjust your strategies, and maintain a productive learning environment despite unforeseen challenges. This demonstrates your ability to remain flexible and resilient under pressure, which is essential in the dynamic world of education.

Example: “There was a time when I had planned an outdoor science activity for my students, but on the day of the lesson, it started raining heavily. Since the activity couldn’t be conducted outdoors anymore, I quickly adapted by bringing the learning experience indoors.

I divided the class into small groups and provided each group with materials to create their own mini ecosystems using plastic containers, soil, plants, and water. This hands-on approach allowed the students to explore the concepts we were studying in a more controlled environment while still engaging them actively. Throughout the activity, I circulated among the groups, answering questions and guiding discussions about the different elements of an ecosystem and how they interacted.

Although the initial plan was disrupted, I managed to adapt my teaching approach to ensure that the learning objectives were met, and the students gained valuable insights from the experience. The flexibility and ability to think on my feet not only saved the day but also reinforced the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations as a teacher.”

9. How do you assess student progress and adjust your instruction accordingly?

Assessing student progress and adapting instruction is key to ensuring that all students are engaged and learning at their optimal levels. By asking this question, interviewers want to gauge your ability to monitor each student’s growth, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and utilize that information to tailor your teaching methods to best meet their individual needs. Demonstrating your commitment to continuous improvement and flexibility in your teaching approach will show that you are dedicated to helping every student succeed.

Example: “Assessing student progress is an ongoing process that involves a combination of formative and summative assessments. Formative assessments, such as quizzes, class discussions, and exit tickets, provide me with immediate feedback on students’ understanding of the material. I use this information to adjust my instruction in real-time, addressing misconceptions or providing additional support where needed.

Summative assessments, like exams and projects, offer a more comprehensive view of students’ mastery of the content. Analyzing these results allows me to identify trends and areas for improvement, both at the individual and class level. Based on this analysis, I may reteach certain concepts, differentiate instruction, or implement targeted interventions to ensure all students are making progress towards their learning goals. This data-driven approach helps me tailor my teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of my students and promote their academic growth.”

10. What role does parent-teacher communication play in your teaching practice?

Parent-teacher communication is a critical aspect of any successful teaching practice. By asking this question, interviewers want to gauge your ability to actively engage with parents, keep them informed about their child’s progress, and collaborate to address any challenges that may arise. They’re looking for teachers who understand the importance of fostering strong relationships with parents to create a supportive learning environment for students.

Example: “Parent-teacher communication plays a vital role in my teaching practice, as it helps create a supportive and collaborative environment for the students’ growth. Regular communication with parents allows me to share their child’s progress, achievements, and areas that need improvement. This enables us to work together to address any concerns or challenges and reinforce learning at home.

I use various methods to maintain open lines of communication, such as newsletters, emails, phone calls, and parent-teacher conferences. I also encourage parents to reach out to me whenever they have questions or concerns about their child’s education. This ongoing dialogue fosters a strong partnership between home and school, ultimately benefiting the student’s overall academic success and well-being.”

11. How do you incorporate social-emotional learning into your curriculum?

Incorporating social-emotional learning (SEL) into the classroom is essential to students’ overall well-being and development. It helps students build important life skills such as empathy, self-awareness, and communication. Interviewers ask this question to gauge your understanding of SEL, your commitment to fostering a healthy learning environment, and your ability to creatively integrate these concepts into your lessons, regardless of the subject matter you teach.

Example: “Integrating social-emotional learning into my curriculum is essential for fostering a well-rounded education and promoting students’ personal growth. One way I incorporate it is by designing collaborative group activities that encourage teamwork, communication, and empathy. These activities provide opportunities for students to practice active listening, express their thoughts respectfully, and work together towards common goals.

Another approach I use is incorporating discussions on real-life scenarios or current events that relate to the subject matter. This allows students to explore different perspectives, develop critical thinking skills, and understand the importance of empathy in diverse situations. Additionally, I create a safe and supportive classroom environment where students feel comfortable sharing their feelings and experiences, which helps them build emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Through these strategies, I aim to nurture not only academic success but also the development of well-rounded individuals who can navigate various social and emotional challenges throughout their lives.”

12. What is your experience with implementing project-based learning in the classroom?

Project-based learning is an increasingly popular instructional method that emphasizes hands-on, collaborative work and real-world problem-solving. By asking about your experience with this approach, interviewers want to gauge your familiarity with innovative teaching techniques and your ability to engage students in meaningful, authentic learning experiences that go beyond traditional lecture-style teaching. They are also interested in your ability to adapt and evolve as an educator in response to changing educational landscapes and research-backed best practices.

Example: “During my time as a middle school science teacher, I have successfully implemented project-based learning in the classroom to enhance student engagement and understanding. One example is when I introduced a unit on renewable energy sources. Instead of relying solely on lectures and textbook readings, I designed a hands-on project where students were tasked with creating their own small-scale wind turbines using everyday materials.

Throughout this project, students worked collaboratively in groups, conducting research on wind turbine design principles and applying their knowledge to build functional models. They also presented their findings and demonstrated their prototypes to the class. This approach not only fostered teamwork and critical thinking skills but also allowed students to see real-world applications of the concepts they were learning.

The success of this project led me to incorporate more project-based learning activities into my curriculum, such as designing eco-friendly homes or simulating water filtration systems. These experiences have shown me that project-based learning can be an effective way to engage students and deepen their understanding of complex topics while developing valuable life skills.”

13. Describe a successful collaboration with a colleague or team of teachers.

Collaboration is a key component of effective teaching, as it fosters the sharing of ideas, resources, and strategies to create a more holistic learning experience for students. Interviewers want to know that you can work well with others, contribute positively to a team, and are open to learning from your colleagues. By sharing a successful collaboration story, you demonstrate your ability to communicate, cooperate, and adapt in a team setting, which ultimately benefits your students and the school as a whole.

Example: “I once collaborated with a team of teachers to develop an interdisciplinary project for our middle school students. The goal was to create a learning experience that connected science, social studies, and language arts while engaging the students in real-world problem-solving.

We designed a unit on environmental conservation where students researched local ecosystems, analyzed human impact, and developed proposals for sustainable practices. In science class, they studied habitats and biodiversity; in social studies, they explored the history of land use and policy; and in language arts, they honed their persuasive writing skills by crafting proposals. We held regular meetings to discuss student progress, share resources, and ensure alignment across subjects.

The project culminated in a presentation event where students showcased their proposals to classmates, parents, and community members. This collaboration not only enriched our curriculum but also fostered a sense of shared responsibility among the teaching staff and increased student engagement through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.”

14. How do you address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in your classroom?

Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion is essential for creating a welcoming and productive learning environment. By asking this question, interviewers aim to understand your awareness of these issues and your ability to promote a positive atmosphere that respects and celebrates the unique backgrounds and experiences of all students. They want to see that you have strategies and activities in place to foster inclusivity and ensure that every student has an equal opportunity to succeed.

Example: “Addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the classroom begins with creating a safe and welcoming environment for all students. I achieve this by setting clear expectations for respectful behavior and fostering open communication from day one. This includes establishing ground rules for discussions, encouraging active listening, and promoting empathy among students.

To ensure that diverse perspectives are represented and valued, I incorporate culturally responsive teaching materials and activities into my lesson plans. This involves selecting texts and resources that reflect the backgrounds of my students and presenting content through multiple lenses. Additionally, I differentiate instruction to accommodate various learning styles and needs, ensuring that every student has an equal opportunity to succeed.

Moreover, I continuously educate myself on issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion by attending workshops, reading articles, and engaging in professional development opportunities. This allows me to stay informed about best practices and adapt my teaching strategies accordingly, ultimately creating a more inclusive and equitable learning experience for all students.”

15. What are some ways you motivate students to take ownership of their learning?

Encouraging students to take ownership of their learning is a key component of successful teaching. Interviewers ask this question to gauge your ability to create an engaging and empowering learning environment. By understanding your strategies for fostering intrinsic motivation, they can assess whether you’ll be able to help students develop a sense of responsibility and pride in their academic growth.

Example: “One effective way to motivate students to take ownership of their learning is by incorporating student choice and personal interests into the curriculum. For example, I might offer a variety of project options for an assignment, allowing students to select the one that resonates with them most. This approach not only fosters engagement but also encourages students to invest more time and effort in their work.

Another strategy I use is setting individualized goals with each student based on their strengths and areas for improvement. Regular check-ins and progress monitoring help students see their growth over time, which can be highly motivating. Additionally, promoting a growth mindset and celebrating small successes along the way contribute to building students’ confidence and motivation to take charge of their learning journey.”

16. How do you support students who struggle with reading comprehension?

Educators want to know how you approach challenges and meet the diverse needs of your students. Reading comprehension is a critical skill that affects all aspects of a student’s academic performance, and it’s common for teachers to encounter students with varying levels of proficiency. Demonstrating your ability to support struggling readers is an essential part of showcasing your commitment to helping each student succeed and grow.

Example: “To support students struggling with reading comprehension, I first assess their individual needs and learning styles to tailor my approach. This may involve one-on-one discussions, diagnostic tests, or observing them during class activities. Once I have a clear understanding of their challenges, I implement targeted strategies that cater to their specific requirements.

For instance, I might use graphic organizers to help students visualize the text structure and main ideas, making it easier for them to grasp the content. Additionally, I incorporate guided reading sessions where we read together as a group, pausing at intervals to discuss key points and clarify any confusion. This interactive process encourages active engagement and promotes better understanding.

Moreover, I collaborate with other teachers, special education staff, and parents to ensure a consistent support system is in place for the student. Regular communication and progress monitoring are essential to track improvement and adjust teaching methods accordingly. Ultimately, my goal is to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that empowers all students to reach their full potential.”

17. What strategies do you use to help English language learners succeed in your classroom?

Educating a diverse group of students requires innovative teaching strategies that cater to individual needs. When it comes to English language learners, adapting your teaching style to accommodate their unique challenges is essential. Interviewers want to hear about your experience working with these students and the specific methods you employ to help them thrive academically and socially. Your ability to support these learners showcases your flexibility and dedication to inclusivity in the classroom.

Example: “One strategy I use to support English language learners (ELLs) in my classroom is incorporating visual aids and graphic organizers. These tools help ELL students better understand the content by providing a clear, visual representation of concepts and vocabulary. For example, when teaching new vocabulary words, I might display images related to those words or create word maps that show connections between terms.

Another approach I employ is differentiating instruction based on individual student needs. This may involve modifying assignments, using scaffolding techniques, or providing additional resources such as bilingual dictionaries. Additionally, I encourage peer collaboration through group activities and pair work, which allows ELL students to practice their language skills with native speakers in a supportive environment.

These strategies not only benefit ELL students but also contribute to creating an inclusive learning atmosphere where all students can thrive and succeed.”

18. Describe a time when you received constructive feedback on your teaching and how you responded.

Being open to constructive feedback is an essential quality for teachers, as it shows your willingness to grow and adapt to new methods, techniques, or strategies. By asking this question, hiring managers want to see that you’re receptive to feedback, able to reflect on your teaching practices, and able to make changes to improve the learning experience for your students. In essence, they want to know that you’re a lifelong learner and committed to ongoing professional development.

Example: “During my first year of teaching, I received constructive feedback from a colleague who observed one of my lessons. They pointed out that while my content delivery was engaging, some students seemed disengaged during group activities. My colleague suggested incorporating more structured cooperative learning strategies to ensure all students were actively participating and collaborating.

I took this feedback to heart and researched various cooperative learning techniques, such as the Jigsaw method and Think-Pair-Share. I then implemented these strategies in my lesson plans, carefully designing activities that required each student to contribute their unique perspective or skillset. Over time, I noticed an improvement in overall student engagement and collaboration during group work. This experience taught me the value of being open to feedback and continuously refining my teaching practices to better meet the needs of my students.”

19. How do you integrate cross-curricular connections into your lessons?

Integrating cross-curricular connections demonstrates your ability to create a holistic learning experience for your students. This approach helps students make connections between different subjects, deepening their understanding and fostering critical thinking. By asking this question, interviewers want to know if you’re able to think beyond your subject area and create well-rounded lessons that engage students and help them see the relevance of their learning in a broader context.

Example: “Integrating cross-curricular connections into my lessons is essential for providing students with a well-rounded education and helping them see the relevance of each subject in their daily lives. One approach I use is to collaborate with other teachers to identify opportunities where our subjects can intersect, creating lesson plans that complement each other.

For example, when teaching a unit on ancient civilizations in history class, I might coordinate with the English teacher to have students read literature from those time periods. This not only reinforces historical context but also allows students to analyze the cultural aspects through literary works. Similarly, I could work with the science teacher to explore the technological advancements made by these civilizations, such as irrigation systems or architectural innovations. These interdisciplinary connections help students develop a deeper understanding of the material and foster critical thinking skills by encouraging them to make connections between different subjects.”

20. What steps do you take to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students?

Fostering a safe and supportive learning environment is the cornerstone of effective teaching. It’s essential for students to feel comfortable, respected, and valued in order to reach their full potential. Interviewers want to know that you, as a teacher, are proactive in creating and maintaining such an environment. They are looking for strategies you implement to ensure that all students, regardless of their background or abilities, are treated fairly and have equal opportunities to succeed.

Example: “To create a safe and supportive learning environment, I first establish clear expectations and guidelines for behavior. This includes setting classroom rules that promote respect, kindness, and inclusivity among students. I make sure to discuss these rules with the class at the beginning of the school year and reinforce them consistently throughout.

Another essential step is building strong relationships with my students by getting to know their individual strengths, challenges, and interests. This helps me tailor my teaching approach to meet their diverse needs and foster an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued. Additionally, I encourage open communication and provide opportunities for students to express their thoughts and feelings in a respectful manner, such as through group discussions or one-on-one meetings.

Moreover, I actively incorporate social-emotional learning activities into my lesson plans to help students develop empathy, self-awareness, and conflict resolution skills. These activities not only contribute to a positive classroom culture but also equip students with valuable life skills that extend beyond the academic setting.”

21. How do you ensure that your assessments accurately measure student understanding?

Assessment is a vital component of the teaching process, and educators must be confident that their assessment methods provide an accurate representation of a student’s understanding. This question seeks to evaluate your ability to design and implement effective assessments that truly gauge the depth of a student’s knowledge, which in turn helps guide your instruction and support their continued growth.

Example: “To ensure that my assessments accurately measure student understanding, I employ a variety of assessment methods tailored to the learning objectives and content being taught. This includes formative assessments such as quizzes, class discussions, and exit tickets, as well as summative assessments like exams, essays, and projects. Using multiple assessment types allows me to gauge students’ comprehension from different angles and helps accommodate diverse learning styles.

Furthermore, I make sure to align my assessments with the curriculum standards and clearly communicate the expectations and criteria to the students. This transparency enables them to understand what they need to demonstrate in order to succeed. Additionally, I regularly review and update my assessment tools to ensure their relevance and effectiveness in measuring student understanding, making adjustments based on feedback and observed trends in student performance.”

22. What professional development opportunities have you participated in recently, and how have they impacted your teaching?

Continuous learning is essential in the field of education. By asking about your recent professional development experiences, interviewers want to gauge your commitment to staying current with new teaching methods, curriculum trends, and educational technology. They’re interested in how you actively apply what you’ve learned to improve your teaching practice and enhance your students’ learning experiences.

Example: “Recently, I attended a workshop on integrating technology in the classroom to enhance student engagement and learning. This professional development opportunity introduced me to various digital tools and platforms that can be used for collaborative projects, interactive lessons, and formative assessments.

As a result of this workshop, I have implemented several new strategies in my teaching practice. For instance, I now use online discussion boards to encourage students to share their thoughts and ideas outside of class time, which has led to more meaningful in-class discussions. Additionally, I’ve incorporated multimedia presentations into my lesson plans, allowing students to explore topics through videos, images, and interactive quizzes. These changes have not only increased student engagement but also improved overall comprehension and retention of the material.”

23. How do you balance meeting curriculum standards while also addressing individual student needs?

Balancing curriculum standards and individual student needs is a fundamental challenge all teachers face. Interviewers ask this question to see if you can find the sweet spot between adhering to the required benchmarks and ensuring each student gets the attention and support they need. Your answer should demonstrate your ability to adapt your teaching strategies and create an inclusive learning environment.

Example: “Balancing curriculum standards and individual student needs is a critical aspect of effective teaching. To achieve this balance, I start by thoroughly understanding the curriculum requirements and designing lesson plans that incorporate various learning styles and activities to engage all students.

As I implement these lessons, I continuously assess each student’s progress through formative assessments, class participation, and one-on-one interactions. This allows me to identify any gaps in understanding or areas where students may need additional support. Based on these insights, I differentiate my instruction by providing targeted interventions, such as small group work, peer tutoring, or modified assignments, to address individual needs without compromising the overall curriculum goals.

This approach ensures that while I maintain focus on meeting curriculum standards, I also create an inclusive learning environment that caters to diverse learners and helps every student reach their full potential.”

24. Describe a challenging situation with a student and how you resolved it.

Addressing challenges with students is an integral aspect of being a teacher. By asking this question, interviewers are trying to gauge your problem-solving skills, empathy, and adaptability in handling diverse situations. They want to see that you can maintain a positive learning environment while addressing individual student needs and finding effective solutions to any issues that arise.

Example: “I once had a student who was consistently disruptive in class, making it difficult for other students to focus and participate. I realized that simply reprimanding the student wasn’t addressing the root cause of the issue. So, I decided to have a one-on-one conversation with them after class to better understand their perspective and identify any underlying problems.

During our discussion, I discovered that the student felt overwhelmed by the coursework and struggled to keep up with the pace of the lessons. This frustration led to their disruptive behavior as a way to cope. To resolve this situation, I offered additional support through after-school tutoring sessions and provided extra resources tailored to their learning style. Over time, the student’s understanding of the material improved, and their behavior became more positive and engaged in class. This experience taught me the importance of taking a proactive approach to address challenging situations and finding solutions that benefit both the individual student and the entire classroom environment.”

25. What extracurricular activities or clubs have you been involved with as a teacher?

Extracurricular involvement demonstrates a teacher’s commitment to engaging with students beyond the classroom and fostering a well-rounded educational experience. By asking this question, interviewers want to gauge your dedication to the school community and assess your ability to connect with and motivate students in various settings. Additionally, your extracurricular involvement may reveal your unique skills and interests that could contribute positively to the school culture.

Example: “During my teaching career, I have been actively involved in several extracurricular activities and clubs to support student growth outside the classroom. One of my most rewarding experiences has been coaching the school’s debate team for the past three years. This role allowed me to help students develop their critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork skills while also fostering a passion for current events and social issues.

Another club I’ve been involved with is the environmental awareness group, where we focus on promoting sustainable practices within our school community and organizing local clean-up events. Through this club, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and raising awareness among their peers. These experiences have not only enriched my teaching practice but also helped me build stronger connections with my students beyond the classroom setting.”

26. How do you incorporate real-world connections and applications into your lessons?

Incorporating real-world connections and applications in lessons is essential to keeping students engaged and motivated to learn. Interviewers want to know that you have the creativity and ability to make the subject matter relevant to your students’ lives. Demonstrating this skill shows that you can create an engaging learning environment and help students understand the importance of the topics being taught, ultimately preparing them for life outside the classroom.

Example: “To incorporate real-world connections and applications into my lessons, I first identify the key concepts or skills that students need to learn. Then, I research current events, local issues, or relatable examples that can help illustrate these concepts in a way that is meaningful and engaging for the students.

For instance, when teaching about environmental science, I might use a local pollution issue as a case study, encouraging students to investigate its causes and potential solutions. This not only helps them understand the broader implications of their learning but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, I invite guest speakers from various professions to share their experiences and insights on how they apply the subject matter in their daily work. This exposure to real-life professionals helps students see the relevance of their education and inspires them to consider future career paths related to the subject.”

27. What is your experience with using data to inform your instruction?

Assessing the effectiveness of your teaching methods is a critical part of being an educator. By evaluating data such as students’ performance, attendance, and engagement, you can make informed decisions about how to adapt your instruction to better meet the needs of your learners. Interviewers want to know that you have experience using data to drive your instructional choices and that you’re committed to continuous improvement.

Example: “Throughout my teaching career, I have consistently used data to inform and improve my instruction. One example of this is when I implemented formative assessments in my classroom. After each lesson, I would administer short quizzes or activities that allowed me to gauge students’ understanding of the material. Analyzing the results helped me identify areas where students were struggling, allowing me to adjust my instructional strategies accordingly.

Another way I’ve utilized data is by tracking student progress over time using a variety of assessment tools, such as standardized tests and performance-based evaluations. This information has been invaluable for identifying trends and patterns in student learning, enabling me to differentiate instruction based on individual needs. Additionally, sharing this data with colleagues during professional learning communities (PLCs) has fostered collaboration and facilitated discussions about best practices for addressing common challenges. Ultimately, leveraging data-driven insights has significantly enhanced my ability to provide targeted, effective instruction tailored to the unique needs of my students.”

28. How do you promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills in your classroom?

Cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students is a vital aspect of their education, preparing them for life beyond the classroom. Interviewers ask this question to gauge your teaching philosophy and your ability to create an engaging learning environment. They want to see that you value these skills and have effective strategies to nurture them in your students, fostering their growth and intellectual curiosity.

Example: “To promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills in my classroom, I incorporate activities that encourage students to analyze information, ask questions, and make connections between concepts. One approach I use is the Socratic method, where I pose open-ended questions and facilitate discussions among students. This encourages them to think deeply about a topic, consider multiple perspectives, and articulate their thoughts.

Another strategy I employ is incorporating real-world scenarios and project-based learning into my lesson plans. This allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to practical situations, fostering creative problem-solving and collaboration. Additionally, I provide opportunities for students to work in diverse groups, which exposes them to different viewpoints and enhances their ability to think critically. Through these methods, I create an engaging and supportive environment that nurtures the development of essential cognitive skills.”

29. Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult colleague or administrator, and how you handled the situation.

Navigating interpersonal relationships is a key aspect of any profession, and teaching is no exception. When faced with a challenging colleague or administrator, your ability to address the situation while maintaining a positive and productive work environment is essential. This question helps interviewers gauge your conflict resolution skills and your capacity to maintain a professional and effective working relationship with others, even when faced with adversity.

Example: “There was a time when I had to work closely with a colleague who had a very different teaching style and approach to classroom management. Our classrooms were adjacent, and we often collaborated on lesson plans and activities for our students. However, their more rigid and strict approach sometimes clashed with my flexible and student-centered methods.

To handle this situation, I initiated a conversation with my colleague to discuss our differences in teaching styles. We focused on finding common ground and identifying areas where we could learn from each other’s approaches. This open dialogue allowed us both to gain new insights and develop strategies that benefited our students. As a result, we were able to create a more cohesive learning environment and improve the overall educational experience for our students.”

30. What are your long-term goals as an educator, and how do you plan to achieve them?

Exploring your long-term goals helps interviewers understand your commitment to the profession and your vision for your career. They want to know that you’re passionate about education and have a plan for personal growth and development. By discussing your future plans, you demonstrate that you’re motivated, forward-thinking, and invested in making a positive impact on your students and the educational community.

Example: “My long-term goal as an educator is to continuously improve my teaching methods and create a positive learning environment that fosters student growth and success. I plan to achieve this by staying up-to-date with the latest research in education, attending professional development workshops, and collaborating with colleagues to share best practices.

Another important aspect of my long-term goals is to contribute to the overall improvement of the school community. I aim to take on leadership roles within the school, such as serving on committees or leading extracurricular activities, to help shape policies and initiatives that benefit both students and staff. This will involve actively engaging with parents, administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure we are all working together towards common objectives for our students’ well-being and academic achievement.”

30 Engineering Interview Questions and Answers

30 project manager interview questions and answers, you may also be interested in..., 30 inventory auditor interview questions and answers, 30 clinical research recruiter interview questions and answers, 30 property management assistant interview questions and answers, 30 senior it auditor interview questions and answers.

• Search for your interview... ×
• HOW IT WORKS
• TESTIMONIALS
• ACCESS ALL PRODUCTS
• ONE-TO-ONE COACHING

26 Teacher Interview Questions & Answers

Pass  YOUR  interview at the first attempt!

Here’s the FULL LIST of interview questions for the TEACHER INTERVIEW :

SUGGESTED ANSWER:

“My name is Richard, and thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to be interviewed for this teacher position today. Before I applied for the role, I managed to read the job description carefully to ensure I had the necessary skills, qualities, and attributes to perform to a high standard in the role. I would describe myself as a positive, energetic, knowledgeable, and industrious teacher. I have a flexible style of teaching that can cater to all students and abilities. I would also say that I am a high-achieving teacher. For example, in my last role, I managed to turn around an underperforming class. At the end of the year, their examination pass rate was 15 percent higher than the school average. I would say that I am adaptable, I am flexible, I will be supportive of your school, and at all times I will uphold the school values in my teaching methods.”

SUGGESTED ANSWER

“I want to be a teacher because I’ve been drawn to teaching for many years, and I also feel that I have a natural ability to teach. I want to be a teacher because the workload is significant. I’m the type of person who enjoys being busy, and with teaching, no two days are ever the same. You get to have a positive impact on your students and you also, more importantly, get to instill positive habits that the students can take forward and see the benefits of in their lives. I believe teaching is an immensely rewarding career. It’s a job for life. You get to build really positive relationships with other teachers. And also, if I’m being honest, the holidays are attractive, too.”

Purchase the full package below for just ₱399.5 to download the answer to this and all of the interview questions featured on this page!

Now INSTANTLY download the suggested ANSWERS to the TEACHER INTERVIEW and PASS your interview!

Teacher Job Description and the Competencies Required to Become a Teacher

As a teacher, you will be required to create and utilise lesson plans that are in line with current educational curriculum’s and their objectives. You will need to establish a strong rapport and professional teacher/student relationship which is aimed at getting the most out of the pupils and enabling them to excel and achieve the highest grades possible during their exams. You will need to keep all teaching resources organized, plan your lessons well in advance and have the skills and attributes to manage unruly or disruptive students.

The educational establishment will require you to create and maintain a positive and inspiring classroom environment where the students are able to learn, develop and feel inspired. In addition to helping pupils and students develop the appropriate skills to lead a successful life, you will also facilitate the development of social abilities. In addition to the creation of effective lesson plans and classes, you will need to monitor the progress of your students, assess and mark their work and prepare them for national tests and examinations.

The role of a teacher is demanding, yet rewarding and you will need a solid set of skills and attributes to perform this highly-important role competently and professionally.

5 TIPS FOR PASSING THE TEACHER INTERVIEW!

TIP #1 – Modern-day teaching requires an ability to not only provide exceptional teaching and delivery of lessons to your pupils/students, you must also be able to handle the pressures that form part of the role. Before you attend the teacher interview, we recommend you think of situations you have been in previously, either within the education sector or elsewhere, where you have successfully handled pressure and stress whilst competently conducting your role. Be prepared for teacher interview questions such as “Can you give an example where you handled stress or pressure at work?”, or “How would you cope with the pressures of teaching?”

TIP #2 – You will undoubtedly be asked at least one question during your teaching interview that relates to your teaching style. Whilst you do not need to provide an answer that demonstrates a unique and innovative style of teaching, it is advisable to provide evidence of a structured and methodical teaching style that gets results for the students and the school. If you can back up your style of teaching with results-based evidence, even better.

TIP #3 – Dealing with unruly or difficult students is a skill that is needed by all teachers. Most schools and educational establishments will already have guidelines in place for dealing with this situation, and if the school you are being interviewed for already has them too, we advise you find out what they are and utilize them in your answer to questions such as: “How would you deal with a difficult or unruly student?”

TIP #4 – “What does the role of a teacher involve?” is a common question, and on the surface, it appears to be easy to answer. However, the only effective way to answer this is to study the teacher job description in detail for the role you are being interviewed for, and then insert the relevant requirements of the role into your answer. Each school and educational establishment will have different teaching requirements and it is important you do not use a generic answer to this question. Be unique in your response to this interview question and tailor your answer to the school you are applying for.

TIP #5 – Prior to your teaching interview, consider your lesson plans and how you are going to structure your classes. Educational establishments need teachers who get results, and the way to get results for your students is to have effective lesson plans in place. If you have pre-determined lesson plans to hand, take them with you to the interview so you can provide real-life examples of what you intend to use during your time as a teacher with the school.

Here's What People Are Saying...

(worldwide success stories from our YouTube community!)

I have an interview tomorrow 🙈

2 weeks ago (edited)

Thank you so much for this!Honestly this information gave me a sense on how to handle my interview as well as improve my interview skills.

1 month ago

I have an interview I'm so nervous 😭

3 months ago (edited)

Thank you so much! I went today and got the job on the spot!

3 weeks ago

THANK YOU SO MUCH! VERY INSIGHTFUL ✨

7 months ago

Im on step two ! So many notes already, would have went into this interview the wrong way. God bless u mate and taking the time to help a lad out like mw who is in over his head

3 months ago

Thank you so much..i have an interview later...it helped a lot to boost my confidence.

I have an interview today ill update you on how i do :).

UPDATE: I GOT THE JOB THANK YOU!

The complaint steps literally saved me for my interview earlier, thank you!!:)

2 months ago

This is excellent !!

This is so helpful. Thank you so much for the tips and advice!

I got the job! Thank you!!

GET ALL 26 QUESTIONS AND UNIQUE ANSWERS TO THE TEACHER INTERVIEW

PLUS FREE 30-DAY ACCESS TO OUR ONLINE INTERVIEW TRAINING COURSE…

Question 1 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 2 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 3 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 4 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 5 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 6 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 7 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 8 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 9 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 10 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 11 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

Question 12 , Full Suggested Answer & Detailed Response

What you’ll get…

The answers to the FULL LIST of interview questions featured on this page.

Expert responses that you can use during your interview.

Suggested answers verified by our panel of interview experts.

Sent to your email inbox within seconds of your order being placed.

FREE 30 days access to our BESTSELLING online Interview Training Course!

For just ₱399.5 get the UNIQUE ANSWERS to all 26 TEACHER INTERVIEW questions, PLUS 30-days free access to our online interview training course to help you PASS YOUR INTERVIEW!

Get all 26 interview questions and suggested answers for your Teacher Interview, plus FREE bonus access to our bestselling online interview training course, which contains over 50 powerful video modules to quickly get you interview ready (and they work for ANY interview). This online course will instantly be free for you to access for 30-days. Thereafter, it’s just £27+vat per month. No minimum term. You can cancel anytime by contacting us via our contact page or email. If you cancel before the 30-day trial ends, you will not be charged.

All this for only

₱ 2,250.00 Original price was: ₱2,250.00. ₱ 399.50 Current price is: ₱399.50. + VAT

• 30-Day Money Back Guarantee

PLUS… BONUSES In addition to the specific TEACHER INTERVIEW Questions & Answers, you will also receive the following BONUSES:

150+ Page Interview Skills Guide – packed full of interview advice, to tips from interview experts, and all of the most common interview questions with detailed answers. Order today and you will get this bonus guide FREE – offer available for a limited time only.

ULTIMATE Online Interview Training Course – Order today and you’ll also get a 30-day free trial to our bestselling online interview training course designed to boost your success at interview! This online course has been used by 100s of job seekers to help their successful interview preparation.

Tell Me About Yourself Interview Answer Slide Deck – In this guide, you will be taught the 4 things to include in your answer to the interview question TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF.  You will also get an EASY structure to use when answering this first teacher interview question, plus a top-scoring example answer specifically for teacher interviews.

30-DAY MONEYBACK GUARANTEE

We have eliminated all risk for you. All of our products and training resources are protected by our 30-day no questions asked money back guarantee. Whatever the reason…or no reason at all…you can have a full refund if this resource isn’t right for you. So there is no risk.

Who has created the answers to the interview questions?

Richard McMunn is a former Fire Officer turned interview coach who has over 20 years experience within the recruitment industry.

He is extremely passionate about helping people pass their interviews, and his success rate is unrivalled within the interview training sector.

Still not convinced? Here’s why you should buy with PassMyInterview.com…

Firstly, these interview questions and answers are created by us and our team of experts – we have all the answers to your questions and will help you succeed (like we’ve been doing for the last 14 years) and we update our material frequently.

Secondly, we provide exclusive bonuses with all our products that you won’t find anywhere else. These bonuses include free guides, powerful online training and more!

Thirdly, our interview guides and training just work. Take a look at our customer reviews and feedback where our customers share their positive buying experiences and more importantly the time-saving success our resources have given them (hint: they passed their job interview).

Finally, we have eliminated all risk for you. All of our products and resources are protected by our 30-day no questions asked money back guarantee. Whatever the reason…or no reason at all…you can have a full refund if this training isn’t right for you. So there is no risk.

MORE TESTIMONIALS FROM OUR SUCCESSFUL CUSTOMERS

All the questions featured were asked during my interview and on the next day I received a phone call telling me I’m hired. Thanks a lot!

- Bren Hermosura

Wow, you give by far the best advice. You are the tops!

- Ricky Parr

I just wanted to thank you so very much. Your questions and answers helped me tremendously to land my first Tech job. Thanks so much for making these

- Mariam Lee

This has been the GREATEST tutorial for me while preparing for my 'Behavioral' interview. I have my interview in exactly 2 weeks and these helpful tutorials are absolutely perfect for those who don't know. Thank you for sharing.

- Mike Oxon

I had my interview yesterday, and I did great! Thank you so much for this, extremely helpful!

- Marcos Fuentes

You got me a second interview thank you

- Emily Cranborn

• View Careers
• How It Works
• Testimonials
• One-to-One Coaching
• Access All Products

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

More information about our Cookie Policy

Home — Essay Samples — Education — Teacher — Exploring Pedagogical Insights: A Teacher Interview Paper

Exploring Pedagogical Insights: a Teacher Interview Paper

• Categories: Teacher Teaching

About this sample

Words: 629 |

Published: Jun 13, 2024

Words: 629 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, body paragraphs, teaching philosophy and approach, instructional methods, challenges faced, the evolving landscape of education, rewards of teaching.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Heisenberg

Verified writer

• Expert in: Education

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 726 words

2 pages / 1096 words

6 pages / 2611 words

1 pages / 609 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Teacher

The fact that I could possibly impact a young person’s life is exciting to me. I do not want letter grades to be as important as growing characteristics in a student. My primary reason why I have decided to pursue this career is [...]

In conclusion, with the possibility of sounding cliché, I must say that being a teacher is my calling. I love the idea of being the person that inspires young children (and not only) to be better and seek knowledge and success. [...]

Deciding on a career path is a significant milestone in one's life, often filled with introspection, passion, and a desire to make a meaningful impact. For me, the journey towards becoming a teacher has been driven by a [...]

Education is a fundamental right of every child, and the responsibility of providing this education falls on the shoulders of teachers. However, there has been an ongoing debate about whether teachers should be allowed to [...]

The NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct was developed to uphold the application of core values, ideals, and principles to assist teachers” decision-making about ethical issues. The Core Values of the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct is [...]

Society, when viewed from a closer perspective, is coarse. This means that it is composed of different types of individuals, each with different strengths and weaknesses, abilities, talents, skills, and intelligence. It’s just [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Why do you want to teach at this school, and not somewhere else?

The majority of job seekers will send their applications to several educational institutions, trying to eventually secure at least some interview invitations. Job search is a game of numbers , and it would be naive to think that people submit their application to one school only (unless their uncle works as a school principal at the place, or they have a similar connection within the leadership circles).

But it doesn’t mean that you have to come up with some groundbreaking reason for your choice. Maybe the locality fits you, you like the management philosophy, or you’ve studied at the same school before, and long to return to the place as a teacher, paying back for an amazing education you got.

7 sample answers to “Why do you want to teach at this school?” interview question

* Special tip : This isn’t by far the toughest question you will face in your teaching job interview. Check the latest edition of our eBook, Teacher Interview Guide , for multiple brilliant answers to all questions they may throw at you, including tricky situational questions . Get ready for every possibility, and ace your interview with flying colors!

Do your homework – research about the school and find the reason to work there

Try to learn something about the school, the students, staff, their achievements, vision and goals, study programs, problems and challenges they face. Check their website, social media profiles, and also what local news and gossips have to so say :).

Show respect and recognition

Education administrators are almost always proud of their institution, and of their work . Successful job candidates realize it, and use questions like this one as an opportunity to stroke their ego . You can talk about excellent results the students achieved (at competitions, or simply when compared to students at other schools), good reputation of the institution, excellent management practices, modern study programs that offer practical application to the graduates, etc.

Talking about such things will almost always work in your favor, for a simple reason: When we speak nicely about the school, we in fact speak nicely about people who lead and manage the place .

24/7 writing help on your phone

To install StudyMoose App tap and then “Add to Home Screen”

Experienced Teacher Interview about Her Job

Save to my list

Remove from my list

Experienced Teacher Interview about Her Job. (2016, Oct 24). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/experienced-teacher-interview-about-her-job-essay

"Experienced Teacher Interview about Her Job." StudyMoose , 24 Oct 2016, https://studymoose.com/experienced-teacher-interview-about-her-job-essay

StudyMoose. (2016). Experienced Teacher Interview about Her Job . [Online]. Available at: https://studymoose.com/experienced-teacher-interview-about-her-job-essay [Accessed: 2 Aug. 2024]

"Experienced Teacher Interview about Her Job." StudyMoose, Oct 24, 2016. Accessed August 2, 2024. https://studymoose.com/experienced-teacher-interview-about-her-job-essay

"Experienced Teacher Interview about Her Job," StudyMoose , 24-Oct-2016. [Online]. Available: https://studymoose.com/experienced-teacher-interview-about-her-job-essay. [Accessed: 2-Aug-2024]

StudyMoose. (2016). Experienced Teacher Interview about Her Job . [Online]. Available at: https://studymoose.com/experienced-teacher-interview-about-her-job-essay [Accessed: 2-Aug-2024]

• Her body, her baby, her choice Pages: 3 (854 words)
• has formed her subjectivity her identity her place which Pages: 3 (747 words)
• Job analysis, job description and job specification Pages: 6 (1675 words)
• Informative Preparing for the Job Interview Speech Pages: 2 (465 words)
• Mastering the Job Interview: Strategies for Success Pages: 5 (1385 words)
• Mastering the Job Interview: A Comprehensive Guide Pages: 3 (807 words)
• Interview with Special Education Teacher: Classroom Strategies and Collaboration Pages: 7 (1827 words)
• Interview With Special Education Teacher Pages: 2 (410 words)
• The Discussion and the Outcomes of an Interview with a Science Teacher Pages: 3 (617 words)
• Age Cannot Wither Her, nor Custom Stale Her Infinite Variety Pages: 6 (1791 words)

👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!

Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.

• InterviewPenguin.com – Your best job interview coach since 2011

Teacher job interview – What are you strengths and weaknesses?

Teaching belongs to the most popular careers around the world . No doubt about the impact you can have as a teacher . Spending long hours with your students, you can easily become their role model , or perhaps their first platonic love… What’s more, giving them some food for thought, and asking the right questions in your lessons, you can help them to form a healthy opinion of the world, and of their position in it. And of course you can teach them to read, write, speak a foreign language –all these skills are vital for their success in life.

Before it can happen, however, you have to get the job in an interview . And one of the most common questions the school principal (or a head department, or a small hiring committee) will ask you is the dreaded one: What are your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher? They may also split it to two questions, first inquiring about your strong points, and just then about your weak points. But it really doesn’t matter whether it’s one question or two. You will have to talk about both. You may also face this issue before your job interview, when writing your essay (on why you want to teach for example), or when working on your resume .

Let’s have a look at 7 sample answers to the question. Below the answers you will find some additional hints and explanations that should help you pick the very best answer for your teaching job interview & resume.

7 sample answers to: “What are you strengths and weaknesses as a teacher?” interview question

• The passion for my profession is undoubtedly my greatest strengths. I believe it reflects in each lesson , in each talk I have with the students. They can feel that I really want the best for them, and try my best in each lesson, which of course motivates them to also try hard , or at least to stay disciplined. And to be honest, the same attitude–or to say it more precisely, the consequences of such an attitude to teaching , is also my biggest weakness. Because I care so much that I struggle to maintain professional distance . I often take the problems from classroom home, and cannot get them out of my head. This is definitely a problem I am aware of, and try to eliminate.
• My communication skills , and understanding for the emotional world of children –especially at elementary level, is my strong point as a teacher. I do not find it hard to gain trust of the students, because I understand how they feel in different situations and can choose the right words in my lessons. My biggest weakness is definitely lack of experience . I taught as a part of my studies, but that was only six months and always in the same classes–students were not disruptive at all in these classes. I am aware that I lack experience with some tricky situations . And they will happen, sooner or later. I will have to adapt , and hopefully I can learn from my more experienced colleagues how to deal with the tricky situation in the classroom.
• In my view, nothing can beat the twenty years of teaching experience . That’s my greatest strength. I’ve seen it all–good students, bad students, violence in school, chicane, but also strong friendships and students who excelled on a national level in various competitions. I’ve tried both conventional and unorthodox teaching methods. My experience is vast, and hardly anything can catch me off guard in the classes… During these long years I also understood my weaknesses, and eventually got rid of some. But there is still something I’d like to improve on. Sometimes I talk too much in the lessons , and do not involve the students as much as I’d like to. That’s not the way to help them improve on their communication and interpersonal skills, something we have to work on in the 21st century.

* Do not forget to check also : Why do you want to become a teacher? 7 sample answers.

• To be honest, I cannot tell. This is my first job application . I’ve never taught anywhere before, and though I have some expectations and good understanding of the job, I cannot really tell how I’d do in a real classroom setting . I believe that I have to do the job first, at least for a few weeks, to understand in which areas of teaching I excel, and which areas I have to improve on. Certainly I won’t excel in everything and it’s a process –one does not become an excellent teacher by earning their degree. We need practice, and a desire to constantly improve on our skills… (this one will work great on an essay for a fresher, trying to get their first teaching job)
• I’d say that my greatest strength is an ability to build respect in the eyes of the students . I know that your school faces a lot of problems with discipline, that it is your biggest challenge. Under my leadership, however, even the most disruptive students eventually started to behave , or at least they did not disturb other students anymore. As it often happens, however, this strength sometimes turns into a weakness … Because I like to have strong rules of discipline in classes, not tolerating any misbehavior. This is good in some cases, but in some classes it can “scare” some students , and eventually they will not express their opinion, or feedback on my teaching, for example when they do not understand something. So it’s about finding the right balance, something I still struggle to do effectively, lesson after lesson.
• If I should point out one thing, I will go with creativity . Students definitely won’t get bored in my lessons. I do not stick to lecturing, at least not all the time. Learning by playing, using interactive technology in the classes, changing roles of teacher and students–are just some of the teaching methods I use. So far the feedback has been great. The children pay attention in the classes , because they enjoy them.  My biggest weakness is probably being impatient . I am sometimes concerned about staying on schedule with the lessons , and progress to quickly for the students. I definitely have to work on this, asking for their feedback, avoid rushing things.
• As we speak about University teaching here, my greatest strength is definitely my expertise with the subjects I teach . I’ve published dozens of research papers, and continuously work on keeping my knowledge up to date. If the students really want to learn something from the subject, to rise above the rest of university students, I am the right person to lead the lessons . On the other hand, and that’s my biggest weakness as a teacher , I sometimes overestimate the abilities of my students . Sometimes my lectures are just difficult, at least for the majority of the people in the audience. Not sure how you look at such an issue, but I try to find a good balance between teaching something extra, and at the same time ensuring that students are getting it.

Your biggest strength can be your greatest weakness, or a reason for it

You do not necessarily have to look for opposites in your interview answer, some yin and yang . What makes you an excellent teacher in general, can make your life difficult sometimes.  For example your passion and commitment to your teaching mission (definitely a strength) can make you feeling miserable, when you do not achieve the desired results with your students. See sample answer no. 1 as an example.

Or you have an ability to maintain discipline in the classes –perhaps with an iron fist, which is indeed needed in some instances, when students won’t obey you otherwise. In some school settings this can be the most important strength. However, it can turn against you. Afraid of your reaction, students may struggle to express their opinion on your teaching, and you lack feedback. Check answer no. 5 as a good example.

* Read also 7 sample answers to other tricky teacher interview question: Where do you see yourself in 5 years as a teacher?

Lack of experience or vast experience –  your safe bet when you aren’t sure, and a great choice for your resume

Just like with everything else in life , experience helps. If you have ten or twenty years of teaching experience under your belt, you can definitely point it out as your greatest strength. It is a safe bet when you aren’t sure, and you can elaborate on it, explaining how the experience helps you in the classes. See sample answer no. 3 as a great example.

You can also turn this around, and, when you are just starting out your teaching journey , say that lack of experience (and everything it means for you in the lessons) is your biggest weakness . Or you can add another twist, saying that due to the lack of real teaching experience, you cannot really point out your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher. This works especially well once you are just starting your career , writing essays and preparing your resume. On your resume you typically cannot afford to write litanies about your weaknesses. The space is limited and doesn’t allow for elaborate thoughts . Hence simply writing “lack of experience” in the column for weaknesses is a great choice. Of course once they invite you for an interview you should always elaborate on it, just as you can see on my list of sample answers.

Show your desire to improve on your weaknesses

Perfect teachers do not exist, and each of us has some weaknesses. It is completely fine for the hiring committee, and they won’t send you hope empty-handed just because you reveal some significant weakness.

What matters for them is your attitude . As long as you can admit having a weakness , and show an honest desire to improve on it (perhaps even describing how you want to do it), they will be satisfied with your answer, and your weakness certainly won’t be a showstopper…

Ready to answer this one? Great. But it won’t be the only difficult question you will face in your teaching interview … If you want to get ready for every challenge you may face, impress the hiring committee, and sign the coveted employment contract, have a look at my eBook , the Teacher Interview Guide . Multiple great answers to all questions you may face in your interview will make your life much easier on the big day. Thank you for checking it out, and I wish you best of luck!

Alternatively, you can check 7 sample answers to some other tricky interview questions for teachers that we analyze on InterviewPenguin.com:

• Why do you want to be a teacher?
• Teacher interview – Tell me about yourself .
• Why do you want to be a preschool teacher?
• Where do you see yourself in five years as a teacher?
• Teacher interview – Tell us more about your teaching experience.
• Recent Posts

© InterviewPenguin.com

Privacy Policy

Interview Essay

Interview essay generator.

Essay writing is different for everyone. Some people choose to go to the library and search for facts on a given subject, while others like to focus on gathering information through personal statements .

During this interview process, interviewers typically ask a series of interview questionnaire  that their readers may want to know about. These details are either recorded or jotted down by the interviewee. With what has been gathered, an individual may then write a complete essay regarding the exchange.

Interview Essay Sample

• Google Docs

Size: 168 KB

Personal Interview Essay Template

Size: 136 KB

Nursing Interview Essay Template

Size: 123 KB

Leadership Interview Essay Template

Size: 154 KB

Teacher Interview Essay Template

Size: 150 KB

Job Interview Essay Sample

Narrative Interview

Size: 70 KB

Career Interview Essay

Size: 29 KB

What Is an Interview Essay?

Interview essays are typically based on research gathered from personal testimonies. This could be based on one’s personal experiences or their own input on a given matter. It may be informative essay , descriptive essay , or even persuasive essays , depending on the questions asked by the interviewer.

The content of the essay may include direct quotes from the interview or it may come in a written narrative form. Through this, we are able to gain additional information from a particular perspective.

What to Include in an Interview Essay

For every essay, a thesis statement is needed to help your readers understand the subject being tackled in your work. For an interview short essay , you would need to talk about your interviewee. Any information that will create a credible image for your interviewee will be necessary.

Next, it’s necessary to include the significant ideas that you have acquired from your interview. Ideally, you should pick three of these ideas, elaborate what has been said, and present it in paragraphs. Be sure to emphasize these points in a detailed and concise manner, a lengthy explanation might be too redundant. You may also see sample essay outlines .

Leadership Essay

Size: 24 KB

Nursing Interview Example

Size: 146 KB

Personal Interview

Size: 18 KB

Parent Interview Sample

Size: 15 KB

Guidelines for an Interview Essay

When writing an interview essay, it would be best to create an outline first.

Organize the information you have gathered from your interviewee and structure it in a logical order. This could be from one’s personal information to the most compelling details gathered. Be reminded of the standard parts of an essay and be sure to apply it to your own work.

Even when most, if not all, of your essay’s content is based on what you have gathered from your interviewee, you would still need to create a good starting of essay  and end to your essay.

Additionally, do not forget to put quotation marks around the exact words used by your interviewee. It would also be best to proofread your work and make sure that there is a smooth transition for each thought. You may also like personal essay examples & samples.

How to Conclude an Interview Essay?

You can end your interview essay how ever you wish to do so. It could be about your learning from the interview, a call to action, or a brief summary writing from what has been expressed in the essay.

But keep in mind, this would depend on your purpose for writing the essay. For instance, if you interviewed a biologist to spread awareness about mother nature, then it would be best to conclude your essay with a call to action. Knowing this, it’s important to end your essay well enough for it to be memorable.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write an Interview Essay on a local community leader.

Discuss the career journey of a teacher in your Interview Essay.

• How It Works
• All Projects
• Top-rated Pages
• Admission essay writing
• Book report writing
• Cheap essay writing
• Coursework writing
• Dissertation writing
• Essay editing
• MBA essay writing
• Scholarship essay writing
• Term paper writing
• Write my essay
• Free sample essays
• Writing blog

Best Teaching Essay Examples

Teacher interview.

985 words | 4 page(s)

Introduction For English teachers, there are conflicting views about their ability to understand and apply specific concepts. This is because, curriculum standards are constantly changing and there are different ideas about its importance. To fully understand what is occurring requires conducting an interview with an educator and looking at their ideas in conjunction with Kolln & Peacock’s assertions and Bizzell’s insights. Together, these elements will illustrate the overall scope of these shifts and the influence they are having on today’s English teachers.

Kollin & Peacock vs. Bizzell Kollin & Peacock believe that English teachers are not prepared for the challenges they will face. This is because there has been a shift away from teaching it, towards taking a more generalized approach. The result is that they have a basic understanding of the rules. However, when they are applied, many of them are open to interpretation. Once this takes place, is the point, they may have a basic understand of these concepts. Yet, adjusting them to the classroom is another challenge in itself. (Kollin & Peacock)

Use your promo and get a custom paper on "Teacher Interview".

While Bizzell, believes that teachers should be encouraging various forms of academic discourse. This is because, he feels that these unique interpretations will help to promote creativity and encourage everyone to follow specific guidelines. Once this happens, is the point they can have basic understanding of the language and the flexibility to apply it to the way they are talking about specific topics. These techniques can be adapted to a host of disciplines and give the student’s the creativity they need. (Bizzell)

An Interview with an English Teacher The English teacher that was interviewed is Sue Perry. She has been educating students on this subject for the last 15 years at Fairview High School in Boulder, Colorado. Her insights help to show how the field is changing and the lasting effects it is having on everyone. The combination of these factors, will illustrate the overall scope of what is happening. (Perry)

What was your “training” in teaching grammar before you entered your first classroom? Perry, “I received my Bachelors degree in English from the University of Colorado at Boulder. In the last year, I spent a considerable amount of time working with middle and high school students as a teaching assistant. Once I graduated, I had to further my education by becoming certified with the state of Colorado.” (Perry)

How confident did you feel in your ability to teach grammar? To teach writing? To teach literature? Perry, “I felt very confident in my ability to teach grammar, writing and literature. This is because I had studied these courses extensively as a part of my major. Second, I was actively involved in the student newspaper (i.e. the Colorado Daily) and I was passionate about learning various periods of literature. During the last two years of my undergraduate education, I focused on them in order to complete my degree.” (Perry)

How does classroom grammar instruction affect students’ ability to do well on standardized tests? Perry, “Grammar instruction is important to a certain extent when it comes to standardized tests. However, the student must be comfortable with this format for assessing their abilities. This means that they have to have good test taking skills, a sense of confidence about themselves and be relaxed. Those who are able to this will perform much better in comparison with others. While at the same time, someone could be good at studying grammar. Yet, they may have poor test taking skills and will become very nervous during these kinds of exams. This hurts their overall levels of performance.” (Perry)

What do you wish you had known / learned about teaching grammar/writing before you began teaching? Perry, “In general, I wish I had learned numerous techniques for teaching students from different backgrounds and skill levels. These areas are problematic in modern day education, as some are passed through the system. While at the same time, there is a probability of working with English Language Learners. If I had the tools and time to connect with more them effectively, I feel I could have a greater impact on everyone in the class.” (Perry)

How has teaching affected your knowledge / understanding of how students learn and use language? Perry, “Teaching has taught me that students learn and utilize the language based upon what they see others doing, popular culture and those close to them. The key in reaching them; is to make a direct link and combine these ideas with areas of interest. Those who are capable of doing this will be more successful in the longer term.” (Perry)

How has the Common Core Standards affected you or the way that you teach? Perry, “The Common Core Standards are having an influence on the areas I will cover. This is because I need to focus on topics which are most relevant to these guidelines and not deviate from them. These factors mean that I cannot talk about other aspects of English. That is just as important, with the limited amounts of time available.” (Perry)

Conclusion Clearly, the interview with Sue Perry is showing how the field of education is changing. This is taking place by focusing on meeting certain guidelines for achievement tests. Anything that goes beyond these standards, are often overlooked from a lack of time. As a result, she was not as prepared for these challenges and had to adapt to a real world environment. These shifts have continued throughout the course of her career. This is because of the changing standards from administrators on the state and federal levels. As a result, this is illustrating the ideas from both Kolln & Peacock and Bizzell.

• Bizzell, Patricia. The Intellectual Work of ‘Mixed’ Forms of Academic Discourses. Portsmouth: Brooks and Cole, 2002. Print.
• Evans, Carol. Teaching English. London: Sage Publications, 2009. Print.
• Kolln, Martha and Hancok, Craig. “The Story of English Grammar.” English Teaching Practices, 4.3 (2005): 11 – 31. Print.
• Perry, Sue. Personal Interview. 24 Apr. 2014.

Have a team of vetted experts take you to the top, with professionally written papers in every area of study.

Israel News

Israel news features every important moment from the Jewish State involving politics, celebrities, and innovation. This is the hard hitting, fast paced news that represents the Jewish nation in an un bias frame so that truth about Israel is represented in the media. There is no other substitute for the best Israel news on the web...

Israel Politics

Israel sports, israel culture, benjamin netanyahu, defense news, crime in israel.

Israel breaks out with a pair of judo medals at Paris Olympics

Major haredi systems to face organizational overhaul after financial trouble

'Without agriculture, we face an existential threat': Food security experts speak at conference

Israel warns its citizens to brace for terror attacks abroad

Minister chikli criticizes idf for enabling continued reserve service of brothers in arms leader, israel's former ambassador to the us michael oren joins emergency squad in the galilee.

Michael Oren served in the paratroopers' brigade during the First Lebanon War, and he will soon join Kfar Blum's emergency squad,

Israeli-Druze pharmacist becomes doctor, rejoins IDF with a mission

The Druze community in Israel, unlike some other minorities, serves in the military and is known for its loyalty to the state.

Drama in Israel's defense establishment and the spy satellite array amid war

The IDF's oldest spy satellite recently went out of service after 22 years and burned up in the atmosphere. Ofek-5, launched on May 28, 2002, was one of Israel's first operational imaging satellites.

'God will avenge the blood of the angels who were murdered,' released hostage Almog Meir Jan writes

Struggling to find answers, Jan admitted that some things are beyond human understanding.

Jerusalem mourns Shai Doron, president of the Jerusalem Foundation, who passed away at 64

Shai Doron, the influential president of the Jerusalem Foundation, died suddenly in London at 64. His impactful leadership at the Foundation and the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo has left a lasting legacy.

Mixed day for Israel in 2024 Paris Olympics

“I am very disappointed,” Israel head coach Guy Luzon began. “I think that when the score was 0-0 we were very close to scoring a goal.

Public officials, businesspeople across the aisle – leave IDF out of politics

The call came after protests on Monday, including at least two members of Knesset and one minister, broke into the Sde Teiman base and after dozens of protestors also broke into the Beit Lid base.

Combatting Hamas West Bank influence: Inside new IDF countermeasure unit

‘We are working together to ensure October 7th does not repeat,’ said unit commander, Lt. Col. D., to the Jerusalem Post.

'We see the Druze as family': Jewish orgs. announce aid for Majdal Shams

The Jewish Agency, JFED of North America, and Keren Hayesod announced 600,000 NIS in donations to the Majdal Shams council amid deadly terrorist attack by Hezbollah.

IDF cannot focus on drafting only haredim who work, AG says

Limon's letter addressed the fact that the IDF chose to send out its first three thousand draft orders to haredim who were listed as either working or studying in universities.

By subscribing I accept the terms of use and privacy policy

'Highest price ever for killing one person': Houthis celebrate strike as Yemenis suffer

'Dismantling Hamas from within': IDF uncovers trove of Hamas secrets

Voight: My daughter Angelina Jolie was influenced by antisemitic people - regarding Gaza

Iran has something to fear: Israeli strike on Yemen shows IAF can reach Tehran

Operation 'Outstretched Arm' demonstrates Israel's F-35's stealth striking capabilities