You’ve passed your content test, enrolled in an online teacher certification program and landed a job interview for that teaching job you have always wanted. But how do you ensure that you are the one they will choose?
According to Bobby Unser, success is where preparation and opportunity meet. Your Texas teacher interview is the perfect combination of preparation and opportunity. If you don’t put the work in beforehand, you may not capitalize on the opportunity in front of you.
Here are four steps to help you prepare for your Texas teacher interview so that you can seize the moment and secure the teaching job you’ve been working toward:
The most meaningful interview questions you will be asked are easily answered if you have a deep understanding of these three theories and how they relate to your potential students:
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
I have listed this theory first because it has to be addressed first. The psychologist Abraham Maslow developed a theory that suggests that humans are motivated to satisfy five basic needs...physiological need, security needs, belonging needs, esteem needs and self-actualization.
These needs are arranged in a hierarchy. Maslow believed that we seek first to satisfy the lowest level of needs and then seek to satisfy each higher level of need until we have satisfied all five needs.
In short, if your student's physiological and emotional needs are not met, they cannot focus on learning.
Bloom's Taxonomy
Created in 1956 under the leadership of educational psychologist Dr Benjamin Bloom, this theory promotes higher forms of thinking in education, such as analyzing and evaluating concepts, processes, procedures, and principles, rather than just remembering facts (rote learning).
In other words, higher levels of thinking can often be achieved by changing the verbs you use in your assignment.
Differentiated Instruction
This philosophy for effective teaching involves providing different students with different avenues to learning (often in the same classroom). According to Carol Ann Tomlinson, teachers can differentiate in four ways:
In other words, you will have to vary your teaching style to accommodate different learning styles or to give students repeated and varied experiences through which to learn. Don't get caught up in what's right, wrong, new or old. It all makes sense.
If you don't have a clue about classroom management, read “The Classroom Management Book.” We send it to everyone who is accepted into our program. There is a reason we do that!
“The Classroom Management Book” by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong is a comprehensive guide that provides teachers with practical strategies and tools for creating and maintaining effective classroom environments. It focuses on how to establish routines, manage student behavior and create a structured, safe and productive learning atmosphere.
Learn these theories well and stop trying to memorize the right answer. There are many ways to ask a question and you need to answer from a knowledge base … not from memorization or you'll surely get stumped.
There is a right way and a wrong way to answer interview questions, particularly when it comes to teaching jobs. Here are some of the right ways to answer interview questions:
It’s also important to showcase your passion for teaching. Communicate why you’re passionate about education and working with students. Share stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in students’ lives.
By researching the school, you can also tailor your responses to the school’s needs. Use your research about the school to show how you align with their mission, values and specific programs. Mention any unique initiatives the school has, like STEM programs or extracurricular activities, and explain how you can contribute.
Prepare a few insightful questions to ask the interview panel as well. This demonstrates genuine interest and helps you learn more about the school’s expectations and culture.
Ultimately, your role as a teacher revolves around your students, so your interview responses should reflect a student-centered mindset. Be ready to discuss how you plan to connect with your students, inspire them to learn and support their growth academically, socially and emotionally.
Share specific strategies for engaging students, such as incorporating technology, hands-on activities or culturally relevant materials. Discuss how you will create a safe and inclusive classroom where every student feels valued and supported.
Highlight your commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of diverse learners. Mention how you plan to differentiate instruction, adapt to varying learning styles and provide individualized support to help all students succeed.
When the interviewers see your focus on building meaningful relationships with students and your dedication to their success, they’ll know you’re not just interested in teaching a subject—you’re committed to teaching students. This mindset is key to standing out and securing the teaching job you’ve always wanted.
Need more tips? Check out our article, 5 Tips To Land Your First Job As A Texas Teacher.
Topics: Teaching Jobs
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