I am wanting to teach....but what grade?

Question

I am wanting to go back to college and get my degree in education. The problem is, I have no idea what age level or subject to go for. My favorite subjects are history, english and theater arts. However, they are not the critical areas for my state (TX). Also, how does a person decide what level they ahould or are meant to teach? I do not want to get into something I'll hate.

Answer 1

The solution to your dilemma is very, very simple. You need to volunteer in various public school settings. Try an elementary school and work with young children. You'll soon find out if elementary teaching is for you. Try Jr. High Schools and you will DEFINITELY find out right away if this is the right age group for you. Don't forget to try a High School environment as well. Keep in mind that volunteering in a 1st grade classroom is vastly different from volunteering in a 5th grade classroom. The differences among elementary school-age children is incredible. I'm glad that you have an open mind about working with children. Now, it is just a matter of discovering your true preferences. Good luck to you.

Answer 2

If you already have a bachelor's degree, perhaps you might try substituting a little. This way you get experience in the various age groups and will be able to see what works best for you.
Otherwise somethings to consider;
Elementary kids need almost a parent figure, someone to help them get their coat and hat on, someone to help when they have a runny nose, etc.
Middle School is given a bad rap due to hormones, but really they aren't so bad. Just know that this is a very awkward time for them both socially and developmentally.
High school, to me, seems like your best option for the areas you are interested in. Don't choose an area based strictly on need. You need to choose something you will enjoy and be enthusiastic about teaching.
A lot of education programs get their students into schools early so you can see if it's what you really want, before investing too much time.
When choosing grade level though, please don't assume that because you are very gifted in a subject you must teach high school - the lower grades need good teachers too.

I recently had a fellow teacher ask me if I thought my math skills would be better used in a non-education field, than teaching my 4th and 5th graders. (I'm really good at math) But I think that's what the education system needs... people who ARE really good at their subjects - in ALL grade levels.

Anyway, I hope that helped....

Answer 3

Hi Nicole! I am a teacher, I've taught in 3 states, and I recently moved here to TX. Don't worry about critical areas right now. It sounds to me like your subject interest is definitely at the high school level. Don't take my word for it..visit some schools. Call in advance and let them know your interest. Schools are usually very interested in having a visitor that is moving into the teaching field. Even better..take a couple of education credits and become a substitute. Once you've been in the schools and worked with the kids..things will become clearer.

There are also programs that allow you to get certified more quickly if you already have a degree in something else.

There are "issues" involving every state AND socioeconomic level. You are wise to give it some good thought..now get your hands dirty and see what you discover.

Good luck!

Answer 4

Many teachers will argue what I am about to tell you but in my humble opinion I would finish getting my degree (because most states today will not even let you sub without a BS or BA) and then sub for a year or so while your are getting your credential. I know the credential program is suppose to expose you to teaching but that does not put a candle to subbing. When you are subbing you are by yourself with the students with no master teacher to save you when they get out of hand. Then when you have earned your own class and better yet your own room, the job only gets better because its your class and not someone else's. This all takes time but one day you will be the master teacher. Do yourself a favor and sub all grade levels and this is how you will find what grades are right for you. Last but not least, teach what you love and you will never be sorry.

Answer 5

When you go to get your degree in education , it will cover most grades anyway. Specializes in language and History- History is real fun to teach as so many different topics involved. Grade 3 upwards are good classes. Some teachers move up each year from grade 1 - 6 for example just to get the experience of each grade.

Answer 6

to start off...it depends on what subject you want to teach. that should be your first choice. if you choose history it automatically rules out grades k-3. If you chose theater, you will probably have to stay in high school grade lvls or middle school "school of the arts sorta thing. English is funner to teach to kids from k-3. It also depends if you like kids or you prefer teens.good luck.

Answer 7

You'll have an opportunity to do practicums and student teaching which will give you an idea of what level you like. Some people are totally primary people, and others great with the upper grades.

Answer 8

I ma only 14, but I will tell u i am going into high school, n 4th n 6th grade was when the kids in my class respected the teacher the most. So.. Thats just my opinion. Although I respect them all the time! LOL!

Answer 9

ok...well in my area in IL history and english may need you. Mostly we need science and math though. Unless you plan on moving...I would not go with secondary since they are not needy in your fields. If you like a challenge..go for middle school. They have puberity going, trying to fit in with their peers, and have a lot going besides school work. Elementary is great! Especially kindergarten!! You get to make their first impression of school! (and you should make it a good one) You get to teach the abcs, numbers, etc. and have a lot of fun doing it. You also get to help them learn things such as how to follow the rules, how to get along with other etc.

Answer 10

Try working with different age kids at diffrent jobs or try being a substitute teacher for awhile. You will find out real quick what grade and subjects are best for you.