What are some typical questions asked at an interview?

What are some typical questions you have been asked during an interview for a teaching position?

• So I just graduated college with a degree in social studies. I've maintained a 3.8gpa, with a 4.0 in my education classes. I've been subbing this semester (everything from math to masonry) in an effort to get experience, to make myself more qualified for a job. I feel like I'm qualified, but I'm nervous about the interviews (if I ever get one). For those of you looking for teaching positions, what are some of the questions you have been asked during your interviews? For those educators here that are on hiring committees/site based councils, what kinds of things do you look for in an applicant and what types of questions do you ask? I was given the advice from a college professor to talk about the students as much as possible, and avoid using the words "me, myself, or I," but I would like some more practical advice.

• Answer:

  I have been a teacher for about 10 years now, both in Australia and America, I have mentored new teachers and had student teachers. I have also been on selection panels. The questions most asked are: 1. Why do you want to be a teacher? 2. Why do you want to work here? 3. Questions relating to a given scenario dealing with student management like " A student is calling out in your class whilst you are trying to teach, you tell them to be quiet, they laugh at you and say "no" - what do you do? 4. Questions relating to curriculum matters - How would you teach a class with students with a variety of special needs? How would you differentiate your instruction? 5. Questions relating to "How would you deal with parents?" 6. Questions about lesson plans and assessment - as in how do you... Make sure you research the school and county and district profiles, all of these are on websites. If test scores are low in the area you teach be prepared for a lot of questions about how you will raise test scores. Make sure to mention the importance of building relationships with students - they need to know they can trust you and that you care about them, most importantly they need to know you know what you are talking about and are confident - students do not need you to be their friend, they need a teacher who will lead by example. In an interview be polite, concise and actually answer the question that is asked of you not what you think they are asking - if you need clarification - ask for it. Dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Suits always work well - bring references, lesson plans, student teaching evaluations, sample work. Make sure you have a list of questions to ask at the interview. Make sure you ask about how you can get involved in the life of the school - extra curricular activities etc... Hope that helps.