25 Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Education is one of the most important aspects of our society. Teachers play a critical role in shaping the minds of the next generation. They help students learn and grow both academically and emotionally.

If you want to become a teacher, you’ll need to go through a job interview. During the interview, you’ll be asked a variety of questions about your teaching experience, education, and philosophy. You’ll also need to answer questions about your ability to work with children and manage a classroom.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve put together a list of common teacher interview questions and answers.

1. What is your favorite subject to teach and why?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer your passion for teaching. Discuss a subject you enjoy teaching and why you enjoy it. You can also discuss the challenges of that subject and how you overcome them.

Example: “My favorite subject to teach is English. I love the challenge of helping students develop their writing skills and learn how to communicate effectively. I also enjoy teaching literature, as it allows me to share my passion for books with my students. I believe that reading is an important part of any education, so I strive to make sure my students understand the importance of reading and appreciate its value.

I have a lot of experience in teaching English and literature, having taught both subjects at various levels for many years. I am confident in my ability to create engaging lessons that will help my students reach their goals. I also use technology in my classroom to enhance student learning and engagement. My goal is to provide a positive learning environment where all students feel comfortable expressing themselves and growing as individuals.”

2. What made you decide to become a teacher?

This question helps employers learn more about your background and why you chose a career in education. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific teacher who inspired you to pursue a career in teaching. You can also talk about what you enjoy most about teaching.

Example: “I have always had a passion for helping others learn and grow. As I grew up, I saw the impact that teachers had on their students’ lives and knew it was something I wanted to be part of. Teaching is an incredibly rewarding profession, as you get to watch your students develop and reach their goals.

In addition, I believe in the power of education and its ability to open doors and create opportunities. I am passionate about providing my students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life. My goal is to inspire them to think critically and become lifelong learners.”

3. How do you keep up with the latest educational trends in teaching?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you stay current in your field. They want to know that you’re willing to learn new methods and techniques for teaching students. In your answer, explain that you regularly read educational journals and attend conferences to learn about the latest research on teaching. You can also mention any continuing education courses you’ve taken in the past.

Example: “Keeping up with the latest educational trends in teaching is something I take seriously. As a teacher, it’s important to stay informed on new developments and best practices so that I can provide my students with the most effective learning experience possible. To do this, I read professional journals and attend conferences related to education whenever possible. I also make sure to keep an eye out for any news or updates from local school districts and other organizations involved in education. Finally, I actively engage with colleagues and peers in the field to discuss emerging ideas and strategies. By doing all of these things, I am able to stay abreast of current trends in teaching and use them to inform my own practice.”

4. Have you ever had to modify your teaching style for any reason? If so, how did it go?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how flexible you are as a teacher. Your answer should show that you can be flexible while still maintaining a high standard of teaching.

Example: “Yes, I have had to modify my teaching style for various reasons. For example, when I was teaching a class of students with different learning styles and abilities, I had to adjust my approach in order to ensure that all students were able to understand the material. To do this, I incorporated more visual aids into my lessons and used hands-on activities to help engage the students. This allowed me to reach each student at their individual level, while still covering the same content. The results were very positive; the students enjoyed the interactive nature of the lessons and felt more engaged in the material.”

5. What age group do you feel you best connect with and why?

This question is a way for the interviewer to learn more about your teaching style and how you connect with students. Your answer should include examples of how you interact with students in that age group and how you help them learn.

Example: “I have experience teaching students of all ages, from elementary school to college. However, I feel that my strongest connection is with middle schoolers. This age group is at a unique point in their lives where they are beginning to discover who they are and what interests them. As an educator, it’s incredibly rewarding to be able to help guide them through this process.

I’m passionate about helping young people find their passions and develop the skills necessary to pursue those passions. My approach to teaching involves creating engaging lessons that allow students to explore topics in depth while also developing critical thinking skills. I believe that by providing students with the tools to think critically, we can empower them to make informed decisions and become successful adults.”

6. Why did you choose the grade level(s) that you teach?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching philosophy. This is an opportunity to share your passion for teaching and how you chose the grade level you teach.

Example: “I chose to teach the grade level(s) that I do because it allows me to foster a sense of community and connection with my students. As an educator, I believe it is important to create relationships with each student in order to best understand their individual needs and help them reach their full potential. My experience teaching this particular grade level has allowed me to develop strong bonds with my students and build meaningful connections with them.

Additionally, I have found that teaching at this particular grade level provides me with the opportunity to explore new methods of instruction and engage my students in creative learning activities. By utilizing innovative approaches to teaching, I am able to keep my students engaged and motivated while also helping them gain valuable knowledge and skills.”

7. Do you have experience working with students who have special needs?

Special needs students often require a unique approach to teaching. Interviewers may ask this question to determine whether you have experience working with special needs students and how you plan to address their needs in the classroom. In your answer, try to explain your past experiences working with special needs students and how you plan to support these students in the future.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working with students who have special needs. During my time as a teacher, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of students from different backgrounds and abilities. I am very familiar with the various strategies and accommodations that can be used to ensure all students are able to access the curriculum and reach their full potential.

I believe in creating an inclusive learning environment where every student is respected and supported. My approach involves getting to know each student’s individual strengths and weaknesses so that I can tailor instruction to best meet their needs. I also collaborate closely with other educators, administrators, and parents to ensure that each student receives the necessary support they need to succeed.”

8. What makes you qualified to teach the subject or subjects you teach?

Interviewers ask this question to see how you can apply your knowledge of a subject to the classroom. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention any certifications or degrees you have in the subject you’re teaching. You can also explain how your personal experiences with the subject or subjects you teach make you qualified to teach them.

Example: “I am an experienced teacher with a passion for helping students learn and grow. I have been teaching for over 10 years, specializing in the subjects of English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. During this time, I have developed a strong understanding of each subject and how to effectively teach them.

In addition to my experience, I also hold a Master’s degree in Education from a prestigious university. This has provided me with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the classroom. My educational background combined with my extensive teaching experience makes me highly qualified to teach these subjects.

Furthermore, I am passionate about education and strive to create engaging lessons that will help my students reach their full potential. I believe that every student should have access to quality education and I am committed to providing it. I also understand the importance of creating a safe and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.”

9. Tell me about your classroom management techniques.

Interviewers want to know how you’ll keep your classroom organized and ensure students are following the rules. Be sure to discuss your management style and how it helps you create a productive learning environment for students.

Example: “Classroom management is an essential part of teaching, and I take it very seriously. My primary goal is to create a safe and welcoming learning environment for all my students. To do this, I use a variety of techniques.

I start by establishing clear expectations from the beginning of the school year. This includes setting rules and consequences that are consistently enforced. I also make sure to provide positive reinforcement when students follow the rules.

I believe in open communication with both parents and students. I strive to build relationships with each student so they feel comfortable coming to me if they have any issues or concerns. I also keep parents informed about their child’s progress and behavior through regular updates.”

10. What methods do you use to determine whether or not a student has learned the material?

Interviewers may ask this question to determine how you assess your students’ learning. They want to know how you measure success and whether you have a plan for helping students who are struggling. In your answer, explain how you determine if a student has learned the material and what steps you take to help them if they’re struggling.

Example: “When determining whether or not a student has learned the material, I use a variety of methods. First, I assess their understanding through formative assessments such as quizzes and tests. This allows me to gauge how much they have retained from my lessons. Second, I provide students with opportunities for self-reflection by having them write about what they have learned in class. Finally, I like to engage students in conversations about the topics we’ve discussed so that I can get an idea of their level of comprehension.”

11. Describe a challenge you’ve faced in your teaching career and how you overcame it.

Interviewers may ask this question to gauge your problem-solving skills and how you’ve used them to overcome challenges in the classroom. When answering this question, it can be helpful to focus on a challenge that you overcame rather than one that you failed to overcome.

Example: “One of the most challenging experiences I have faced in my teaching career was when I first started out. I had to learn how to manage a classroom full of students with different learning styles, backgrounds, and personalities.

To overcome this challenge, I took the time to get to know each student individually by talking to them one-on-one and finding out what their interests were. From there, I created lesson plans that catered to each individual’s needs and abilities. I also implemented various methods of instruction such as hands-on activities, group work, and technology-based tools to ensure that all students were engaged in the material. Finally, I established an open line of communication between myself and my students so that they felt comfortable coming to me for help or guidance if needed.

Through these efforts, I was able to create a positive learning environment where every student could succeed.”

12. How do you motivate your students to learn and succeed?

Interviewers want to know how you can motivate students to learn, succeed and achieve. They want to see that you can inspire your students and help them develop a passion for learning. Use examples from your experience of motivating students to learn and succeed.

Example: “Motivating students to learn and succeed is a key part of my teaching style. I believe in creating an environment where students feel supported, respected, and encouraged to take risks. To do this, I focus on building relationships with each student so that they know I am invested in their success. I also make sure to provide clear expectations for the class and individual assignments, as well as consistent feedback and recognition when goals are met. Finally, I strive to create engaging lessons that challenge students to think critically and apply what they’ve learned. By using these strategies, I have seen great results from my students over the years.”

13. What are some ways you make your lessons interesting?

Interviewers want to know that you can keep students engaged in your classroom. They want to know that you have a variety of teaching methods and strategies you use to make lessons fun and interesting for students. When answering this question, be honest about the methods you use to keep students engaged and interested in what you’re teaching.

Example: “I believe that making lessons interesting is key to engaging students and helping them learn. I strive to make my lessons as interactive and creative as possible. To do this, I use a variety of teaching methods such as hands-on activities, group work, multimedia presentations, and real-world examples. I also like to incorporate technology into my lessons whenever possible. This helps keep the students engaged and allows me to explore different topics in more depth. Finally, I always try to find ways to connect the lesson material to the students’ lives so they can see how it applies to their own experiences. By doing this, I’m able to create an environment where learning is fun and meaningful.”

14. How do you keep parents involved in their child’s education?

Parents play an important role in their child’s education. Parents can help with homework, attend school events and provide emotional support. Some parents may not be able to attend school events, so you should offer other ways to stay involved. You can talk about how you communicate with parents and how you encourage them to help their child succeed.

Example: “I believe that parents are an integral part of their child’s education and it is important to keep them involved. To do this, I make sure to communicate with parents regularly about their child’s progress in the classroom. I also host parent-teacher conferences where we can discuss any questions or concerns they may have.

In addition, I encourage parents to get involved by attending school events such as field trips, assemblies, and performances. This gives them a chance to see how their child is doing in the classroom and allows them to be more engaged in their child’s learning. Finally, I provide resources for parents so they can stay up to date on what their children are learning and give them ideas on how to help at home.”

15. Describe your teaching style.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn about your teaching methods and how you interact with students. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific teaching style and how it benefits your students. It can also be helpful to include an example of a time when you used this method successfully.

Example: “My teaching style is centered around creating an engaging and interactive learning environment for my students. I believe that the best way to learn is through hands-on activities, so I strive to create lessons that are both fun and educational. My classes often involve group work, class discussions, and creative projects that allow students to explore their own interests while also developing important skills. I also try to make sure that my classroom is a safe space where everyone feels comfortable expressing their ideas without fear of judgement or criticism. Above all else, I want my students to feel empowered to take ownership of their learning and be excited about coming to class each day.”

16. How do you handle discipline issues?

Teachers must have the ability to manage students who misbehave. This question helps interviewers evaluate your skills in handling discipline issues and maintaining order in the classroom. In your response, explain how you use positive reinforcement and other strategies to help students behave and learn.

Example: “I believe that discipline is an important part of the learning process and I take it seriously. My approach to discipline is to first identify the root cause of the issue, then work with the student to address it in a positive way. I like to use a combination of positive reinforcement and redirection when dealing with discipline issues. For example, if a student is disruptive in class, I will start by talking to them privately about their behavior and why it’s not acceptable. Then, I’ll redirect their energy into something productive, such as having them help me set up for the next activity or giving them a task to complete. Finally, I’ll provide positive reinforcement when they demonstrate good behavior. By taking this approach, I’m able to build relationships with my students while also helping them understand the importance of following rules.”

17. What would you change about the current educational system?

This question can give the interviewer insight into how you approach change and your willingness to innovate. Your answer can also show how you might implement changes to benefit students. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight specific ways you would like to improve the educational system and how those changes could benefit students.

Example: “I believe that the current educational system has many strengths, but there are also areas for improvement. One of the main changes I would make is to focus more on student-centered learning and less on standardized testing. By allowing students to take ownership of their own learning, they can develop a deeper understanding of the material and become more engaged in their education.

In addition, I think it’s important to create an environment where students feel safe and supported. This means providing them with resources such as counseling services, mental health support, and other forms of assistance. It also involves creating a culture of respect and acceptance so that all students feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgement or ridicule.”

18. What strategies do you use to differentiate instruction for students?

Differentiation is a teaching strategy that allows teachers to modify their instruction for students with different learning styles and abilities. Interviewers may ask this question to understand how you plan to support all of your students in the classroom. In your answer, try to describe a specific example of when you used differentiation strategies to help students learn.

Example: “I believe that every student is unique and deserves to be taught in a way that best suits their individual learning style. To ensure this, I use a variety of strategies to differentiate instruction for my students.

One strategy I often use is scaffolding. This involves breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps so that all students can understand the material. By providing support during each step, I am able to help students build upon their knowledge until they are able to complete the task independently.

Another strategy I use is differentiated grouping. This allows me to group students according to their ability level or interests, allowing them to work on tasks at an appropriate pace and with peers who have similar abilities.

In addition, I also provide flexible options for assignments. This gives students the opportunity to choose how they want to demonstrate their understanding of the material. For example, if a student prefers to write a paper instead of giving a presentation, I will allow them to do so.”

19. How do you ensure that all students receive equal access to learning material?

This question can help interviewers understand how you plan and organize your lessons to ensure all students are engaged. Use examples from past experiences where you planned for a diverse group of learners, including those with special needs or learning styles.

Example: “I believe that all students should have equal access to learning material in order to be successful. To ensure this, I use a variety of strategies. First, I create an inclusive classroom environment where everyone feels comfortable and respected. This allows me to build relationships with my students so they can feel comfortable asking questions or seeking help when needed.

Next, I make sure that all materials are available digitally as well as physically. This way, if any student is unable to attend class due to illness or other reasons, they can still access the material from home. Finally, I provide additional resources such as tutoring sessions and study groups for those who need extra support. By doing these things, I am able to guarantee that all students receive equal access to learning material.”

20. Do you have experience working with diverse student populations?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience working with students from different backgrounds. They want to know if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to help all types of students succeed in your classroom. In your answer, try to explain how you plan for and manage a diverse student population.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with diverse student populations. During my time as a teacher, I have taught students from all walks of life, including those from different cultural backgrounds and socio-economic statuses. In addition to this, I have also worked with students who have learning disabilities or special needs.

I am passionate about creating an inclusive environment in the classroom and strive to ensure that every student feels comfortable and respected. To do this, I use various teaching strategies and activities that are tailored to meet the individual needs of each student. For example, I often incorporate hands-on activities into my lessons to engage students and make sure they understand the material.”

21. What is your approach to assessment and evaluation of student progress?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your assessment and evaluation methods. They want to know how you use data to inform your teaching practices. In your answer, explain what factors you consider when assessing student progress. You can also mention any specific tools or resources that help you evaluate students’ learning outcomes.

Example: “My approach to assessment and evaluation of student progress is two-fold. First, I believe that it is important to provide students with regular feedback on their performance in order to help them understand where they are succeeding and where they need to improve. This can be done through both formal assessments such as tests and quizzes, as well as informal assessments such as observations and conversations. Secondly, I believe that it is important to use a variety of methods for assessing student progress so that all learning styles are taken into account. For example, I often incorporate projects, presentations, and group work into my classes in addition to traditional exams and assignments. Finally, I strive to make sure that the assessments are meaningful and relevant to the material being taught, so that students can see the value in what they are learning.”

22. How do you evaluate the effectiveness of your teaching methods?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching philosophy and how you use data to improve your classroom. Use examples from past experiences where you used evidence-based practices to evaluate the success of your teaching methods.

Example: “Evaluating the effectiveness of my teaching methods is an important part of my job as a teacher. I use a variety of tools to measure student progress, such as assessments, quizzes, and tests. I also review student feedback on their learning experience in order to identify areas that need improvement. Finally, I track student performance over time to ensure that they are making steady progress towards their educational goals. By using these various evaluation techniques, I am able to make sure that my teaching methods are effective and helping students reach their full potential.”

23. Describe a successful lesson plan or activity you recently implemented in your classroom.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you plan lessons. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific activity or lesson that was successful in engaging students and helping them learn important concepts.

Example: “I recently taught my class about the different types of clouds. I started by showing them pictures of various cloud formations and asking them what they thought each one looked like. Then, we discussed what each type of cloud formation is called and why. Afterward, I had the students draw their own cloud formations and label them with the correct names.”

Example: “Recently, I implemented a lesson plan in my classroom that was very successful. The goal of the lesson was to teach students about the importance of collaboration and teamwork. To achieve this, I had them work together in small groups on an activity where they had to create a model of a city using recycled materials.

I began by introducing the concept of collaboration and how it can be used to solve problems. Then, I gave each group a set of instructions and let them get creative with their designs. Throughout the process, I encouraged them to think critically and come up with innovative solutions.

The results were amazing! Not only did they have fun working together, but they also developed a better understanding of the importance of collaboration. They even came up with some really impressive models that showcased their creativity and problem-solving skills. It was a great success and one of my most rewarding experiences as a teacher.”

24. What initiatives have you taken to improve student engagement and performance?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn about your teaching philosophy and how you apply it in the classroom. They want to know if you have any unique methods for keeping students engaged, such as using technology or incorporating fun activities into lessons.

Example: “I believe that student engagement and performance are two of the most important factors in a successful learning environment. To ensure my students get the best possible education, I have implemented several initiatives to improve their engagement and performance.

One initiative I have taken is to create an interactive classroom atmosphere. I use technology such as online quizzes and games to keep students engaged and motivated throughout the lesson. I also make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for discussion and collaboration between students so they can learn from each other.

Another initiative I have taken is to develop individualized learning plans for my students. This allows me to tailor instruction to meet the needs of each student and helps them stay focused on their goals. I also incorporate hands-on activities into my lessons to help engage students and give them a chance to apply what they’ve learned.”

25. What would be your first priority on day one as a teacher at this school?

This question is a great way to see how much research you’ve done on the school and its students. It’s also an opportunity for you to show your enthusiasm for teaching and connecting with students. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what would excite you as a new teacher and use that as inspiration for your answer.

Example: “On my first day as a teacher at this school, I would prioritize getting to know the students and their learning styles. This is an essential step in creating a successful learning environment for all of my students. I believe that every student has unique needs and interests, so it’s important to get to know them on an individual basis.

I also plan to spend time familiarizing myself with the curriculum and expectations for each grade level. Knowing what topics are covered in each class will help me create engaging lessons that meet the standards set by the district. Finally, I want to make sure I have a good understanding of classroom management strategies and procedures so I can ensure a safe and productive learning environment for everyone.”