The topic of how to become an elementary school teacher entails getting a formal education and becoming proactive in terms of learning a variety of teaching methods for auditory and visual learners. The formative years are the most important for children of all ages, as they look up to teachers as role models and sources of guidance as well. Aside from attaining the required educational credentials, realizing that each child can be affected in many different ways concerning perceptions and attitudes by what they see and hear. For grades 1 thru 5, teaching methods will vary; first, second, and third graders require different lesson plans as opposed to fourth and fifth graders. No matter the grade level, a great deal of time, effort, and patience will be standard operating procedure. Although this particular occupation can be a trying experience, it can also be an equally rewarding endeavor for many years to come.
Getting Started
Prior to receiving any formal training, finding out where to work with all different types of children is recommended; this can be achieved through volunteering at a variety of nonprofit organizations. Observing and taking notes is great place to start, a process that can lead to troubleshooting and problem solving before engaging with children in small groups. Levels of interacting with impressionable youngsters should be gauged by their degrees of exposure, thus making it easier to adapt to each respective stage of comprehension. Because intelligence levels of children will vary, keeping it simple is the best way to reach a wider group.
Higher Education
The next phase of learning how to teach begins with acquiring relevant knowledge that will be applied in an elementary classroom setting, which involves earning educational certificates and/or degrees. Whether starting out at the community college or university level, enrolling in a number of child development courses is a great way to become familiarized with the process. Getting an Associate’s Degree can enable prospective teachers to acquire a well-rounded education before delving into all that is required in becoming an elementary school teacher.
The university level is designed to hone in on refine the skills necessary to succeed, including the latest teaching methods, creating a variety of lesson plans, and becoming an orchestrator of social interaction. In most cases, a Bachelor’s Degree is required to qualify, yet the concentrated areas of focus can vary. Having a degree in one of the following subjects is sufficient: Humanities, Liberal Arts, Mathematics, History, English, Theater, and a list of other disciplines as well.
Internships
Most universities have internship programs with local elementary schools. Student teachers will gradually take on more responsibilities as time progresses. The usual mandatory internship requires 40 hours of class time before completing the entire program.
Job Description
A grade school teacher helps students learn how to read, write, and communicate in as many ways as possible. The basics of math are also included, as well as class projects and book reports. Grading papers and making sure that the students are keeping current with their coursework is par for the course. These duties and teaching methods are often incorporated when learning how to become an elementary school teacher.