Teaching maths at the primary and secondary school level is an involved position that requires patience and a commitment to helping each student achieve success at an appropriate level. Students often need extra attention in this subject, so employers are looking for instructors who not only have a firm grasp of their subject, but can also impart that knowledge in engaging and effective ways. Expect to answer questions about your teaching experience and style as well as how you would handle a variety of classroom scenarios. Although teaching credentials are required at state schools, this is not necessarily always the case at private schools.
Here are three top maths teacher interview questions and tips on how to answer them:
How to answer: An interviewer wants to know that the person they hire enjoys the role of teaching maths to students. Talk about the fulfilment you gain from educating students and helping them learn skills that can benefit them throughout their lives. Consider some of the most rewarding moments you have experienced when teaching and use those to highlight your commitment to this role.
How to answer: Maths can be a challenging subject to teach, especially to students who struggle with maths or consider it to be too difficult to learn. As you answer this question, it is helpful to describe how you teach in a way that engages all the students in the class and any of the tools you use to avoid becoming discouraged by students who struggle.
How to answer: Maths teachers are in demand at schools of all levels and across the globe, so it is important to discuss why you want to teach at this location specifically. You can use this question to reference any research you have performed about the school and its reputation, curriculum, staff and student needs. Demonstrate the teaching skills you have that make you a good fit for the school.