Whether you’re looking to become a math teacher or just want to refresh your skills, these tips are sure to help.
Find out if you have the right stuff
If you want to become a math teacher, there are certain characteristics that are essential. For example, you’ll need patience and the ability to listen carefully and explain things clearly. You’ll also need a deep understanding of the subject matter. Keep in mind that many students have difficulty with math and may be struggling in class. You’ll need to be able to offer them encouragement without being condescending or judgmental.
Learn about different types of math teaching positions
There are several different types of teaching positions available for those who want to teach math:
- High school teacher (the most common kind)
- College professor (requires an advanced degree)
How To Become Math Teacher
If you enjoy mathematics, you might consider becoming a math teacher. In addition to math skills, these teachers need patience, time management, organization and planning skills. In this article, we explain what a math teacher does, how to become one and answers to frequently asked questions about this role.
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What does a math teacher do?
Math teachers educate students in the principles of mathematics. Depending on the grade level and classes, they might teach general math or particular fields of mathematics, such as geometry, algebra and calculus. Their main responsibility is to help students cultivate the ability to understand and problem-solve math-related questions in preparation for the next grade level.
Math teachers typically work for middle schools or high schools, but a math teacher can teach any grade from kindergarten to 12th grade and beyond, depending on their qualifications. When it comes to classes like calculus, trigonometry and other higher-level math classes, a math teacher may need special training.
Teaching involves a variety of duties and responsibilities, including:
- Creating lesson plans
- Preparing homework and assignments for students and correcting them
- Preparing tests to check the level of understanding of students and correcting the tests
- Assessing the progress and abilities of each student throughout the year
- Keeping up with state standards and guidelines to ensure students meet the established criteria
- Managing several classes in different grades
- Managing student behavior and communicating with parents and administrators
- Supervising study halls, field trips, extracurricular activities and homerooms when required
- Providing sound advice about academic and career options for students
Related: Learn About Being a Teacher
What is the average salary of a math teacher?
The average salary of a math teacher is $46,389 per year. Salaries vary based on grade level, type of school, experience and location.
How to become a math teacher
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a math teacher, consider following these steps:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree.
- Complete a student teaching internship program.
- Pass the test for teachers.
- Apply for a teaching certificate.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree
To become a math teacher, you need a bachelor’s degree. While you can apply for a state teaching license with any major, you might want to choose a major in education with a focus on math or a math-related major. You could study for a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Secondary Education with a focus on math or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education with a focus on math.
You can choose Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics Education, Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Education with a focus in math or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics with a focus on middle or secondary grades.
2. Complete a student teaching internship program
The student teaching internship program is mandatory in some states if you want to become a qualified teacher. This program is a full-time course where you will be supervised as you learn your way through the instructional classroom experience. Your teaching internship program should be done in the grade level you wish to be certified in. The program lasts from eight to 12 weeks. The first part of your internship will involve observation of a teacher in a classroom and the second part will have you taking over a class.
3. Pass the test for teachers
The state you live in will require you to take a test to become certified to teach in public schools. Most states require prospective teachers to take a basic skills exams and subject knowledge competency exams. These tests will examine your reading, writing and general math skills. Requirements vary by state, but the most widely used tests include The National Evaluation Series and The Praxis Series.
4. Apply for a teaching certificate
With a state teaching certificate, you will be eligible to apply for the math teaching jobs that you want. This is a license that will allow you to teach in the area you have specialized in and in the state that you wish to work in. You will be issued this license by the governing body in your home state. Then you can start applying for math teaching jobs in the grade level of your choice.
Related: 50 Teacher Interview Questions and Answers to Help You Prepare
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Frequently asked questions
The following are some of the most commonly asked questions about becoming a math teacher:
Can a math teacher earn a master teacher certification?
A master teacher certification is an advanced credential that signifies your skill and experience. For a math teacher to earn this certification, you must show advanced knowledge in your area and a strong ability to successfully teach students. You will also need three to five years of teaching experience. If you do earn this credential, you could start earning a higher salary.
What is the job market like for math teachers?
The job market for math teachers is a positive one. Math teachers are highly in demand in all grade levels. It is easier to find a job as a math teacher if you have a major in math or a master’s degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a growth of 4% for high school teachers from 2018 to 2028. The prediction is almost as fast as the average for all occupations.
What skills should a math teacher have?
The role of a math teacher will vary depending on the grade. Elementary students need different things from their math teachers compared to high school students. However, a math teacher must always be patient and realize that some students might take longer to grasp math concepts.
Teachers need to use creativity to get students to understand and have an interest in the subject. Communication, organization, planning and empathy are essential skills for a teacher to be successful.
