Interview questions (2008)

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Tell me about yourself?

Ok I need a good answer to the question

"Tell me about yourself?"

I dread this question more than the "textbook" questions. I just don't know what to say. And I know it's going to be the first thing they ask when I sit down. I know that you aren't suppose to say anything personal.

I graduated from XXX University in 2007 with my MA in Childhood Education. This past school year I was a private school teaching assistant in a Pre-K class......

I'm apply for a job in CT but live in NY do I mention that I am moving to CT in two weeks, so that they aren't confused on why I am applying when I live in NY.

Any help would be great! Thanks
 
I think your answer is fine. After graduating from X University in New YOrk, I decided to become a teaching assistant in a Pre-K class. It was a wonderful experience and I blah blah (loved every minute of it). I had plans to move to Connecticut after my first year of teaching and am happy to be relocating here in August.


I used to hire people in my other job and I almost felt bad hiring people if I knew they had no plans to move to the area unless they got the job. It sort of put pressure on me in a personal sense. I would think "wow this guy is willing to uproot his whole family for this." That's the reason why I would mention you already have plans to move to Connecticut. Plus they will know that your plans are already in motion and you've got things together. I do not think it is necessary that you tell them why you are moving to Connecticut.
 
Do you think that I should also say something along the lines of that I am flexible, organized, patient and that I love working with kids. Or should I just stick to short and sweet.

Thanks for the help :2up:
 
Ok, I have another question everyone.

The job I am interviewing is for a Paraprofessional part time position. Yea I know, but at least it's an interview. Do you think that they will ask me the general teacher questions or maybe no because of the postion? Those of you that have gone on TA or para interviews what kinds of questions do they ask?

Thanks again for the help!
 
ChriCres said:
Do you think that I should also say something along the lines of that I am flexible, organized, patient and that I love working with kids. Or should I just stick to short and sweet.

Thanks for the help :2up:
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Others may think differently but I believe you should keep it pretty simplistic, not necessarily short, since it is your introduction. What I mean is, if you have done a lot, spit it out in a concise way and don't leave something important out just because you want your answer short. So say for example a person just moved to town from Alaska and had a special ed teaching job, an ESL classroom, is bilingual, and taught preschool, they should mention those things but not ramble on about them until asked specifically. If you talk too much you might start rambling and that isn't a good thing of course. Plus, saying that you are organized, patient and love working with kids can very easily be incorporated into your strengths answer.


IMO

Lemon
 
ChriCres said:
Ok, I have another question everyone.

The job I am interviewing is for a Paraprofessional part time position. Yea I know, but at least it's an interview. Do you think that they will ask me the general teacher questions or maybe no because of the postion? Those of you that have gone on TA or para interviews what kinds of questions do they ask?

Thanks again for the help!
Click to expand...

I haven't gone on those interview but I thought I would answer anyway.

I would look for questions about how comfortable you are being the leader or the follower. What do you expect from a coworker? How do you handle conflict among the staff? A coworker is doing something that is not in the best interest of the school or child, how do you handle it? What type of people do you like to work with? What type of people don't you like to work with ( I had the last two at my summer job interview)

Best of luck---be confident. You know this stuff!!!
 
I think those are pretty good questions...let me give them a try...

How comfortable are you being the leader or the follower?

I feel that I can be comfortable in both positions. Most of the experience I've had over the past few years has been that of a teacher assistant. This usually puts me in the position of follower. I am able to follow directions, work hard and be helpful when needed. This past school years experiences have also given me the opportunity to step up and become the leader on days when the head teacher was out or when I was needed to substitute in another room. I feel that my flexibility, organization and patients allowed me to succeed in those situations.

What does everyone think?
 
ChriCres said:
Ok, I have another question everyone.

The job I am interviewing is for a Paraprofessional part time position. Yea I know, but at least it's an interview. Do you think that they will ask me the general teacher questions or maybe no because of the postion? Those of you that have gone on TA or para interviews what kinds of questions do they ask?

Thanks again for the help!
Click to expand...

just ask Cut N Glue, she is the para queen!
 
INTERVIEW QUESTION: How do you feel about criticism from your supervisor?

I blew her mind when I said, "In public or private?" She just glared at me. (ok, she did say she would not make any comments.) I said, "Well it makes a difference if it is in public or private. I would consider that we are able to learn, and I would use the experience to share with my class, and say... "See, Ms. ___ makes mistakes too." But if it happened in private, I would say, "I appreciate your help, thanks for your input, but I was trying this or that because of this or that, but again, thank you for bringing it to my attention." I also said, (which knocked off some points.. :unsure:) I think it is best that supervisors criticize in private, and professionals will always understand...but in fairness and respect to the class, I would hope my supervisor would not criticize me in front of my class during a lesson, unless there was a safety or specific curriculum/testing issue involved. :whistle:


INTERVIEW QUESTION: Many teachers say, I love teaching, but I had to leave because of the salary. How do you respond to this?

Needless to say, that pretty much killed my interview. I spouted off real good on that one. I said, "Well, honestly I have to agree that am proud of my accomplishments, Ihave my certificate, and working on my Masters, and I have my sp. ed. endorsement, and so I would expect something close to what CPS teachers are earning."

That's when she put her pen down, and decided to talk! :eek: She said that unfortunately, charter schools only get x amount of the dollar and therefore pay teachers 77% of what Chicago teachers make, and did I consider looking at other schools, and...

"Do I still want to continue with the questions, or do you think we are done??"

:|

How do you get around the money issue? I mean, you should at least know what the ballpark figure is... right?
 
Interview question...

What two instructional tools would you need to have in the classroom?

For some reason this question threw me :confused:
 
Master Pre-K said:
How do you get around the money issue? I mean, you should at least know what the ballpark figure is... right?
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Wow, that is a rough one. There's no easy way around that. Maybe say something like I try to not to make money my #1 issue unless the salary is extremely low compared to public schools. I place more weight on how I think I will fit in, how I will be treated, and the overall workplace environment blah blah (you get the picture) However 25% less is not low enough for me to want to leave after a year to find something better...you could maybe throw that in there to!

I don't know just trying to help. In all actuality 25% less than public isn't that bad. Good luck!! Keep us posted.
 
Ok, last minute...but I just found this forum. I have a SECOND interview tomorrow morning. I was one of 300 applicants, then it was down to like 15ish for the first interview, and then i was called and asked to come in for a second interview. I have been on only one "second" interview before and it was VERY open-ended, needless to say I was competing against someone in the school district already and didn't get the job. What should I expect for some SECOND interview questions???!
 
Jess90102 said:
Ok, last minute...but I just found this forum. I have a SECOND interview tomorrow morning. I was one of 300 applicants, then it was down to like 15ish for the first interview, and then i was called and asked to come in for a second interview. I have been on only one "second" interview before and it was VERY open-ended, needless to say I was competing against someone in the school district already and didn't get the job. What should I expect for some SECOND interview questions???!
Click to expand...

I would say something more closely related to the district and grade level. Scout around in their website for mission statement, and any notes from the principal on new, innovative procedures or curriculums that they are using/plan to use.

At this point, it's all about determining if you are a good fit. We know you have skills, but can you handle our crew? Are you a follower or leader, or better...can you walk along, but speak up if necessary.

If you know anything about the trends in the area, say demographics, and can comment, that is a plus.

Ex. A "I am aware of the increase population of families from X background. I speak the language fluently, and have experience working with students and families of this culture."

Ex. B "I have been reading about the high turnover of staff in your schools. I spent x years on my last position, and was part of a district-wide layoff. Therefore, I am eager to get back into the classroom, and can assure you that I wish to make this district my home!"
 
frogger said:
Question asked: What was the most challenging thing you faced teaching/student teaching this past year?
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I would say my greatest challenge was assessing my students, and determining if they needed further clarification. My CT was an expert in reviewing lessons, and always asked open-ended questions to check for understanding. Under her guidance, I followed the same procedures, and was able to recognize those students who needed further instruction.
 
rookieABC123 said:
Wow, that is a rough one. There's no easy way around that. Maybe say something like I try to not to make money my #1 issue unless the salary is extremely low compared to public schools. I place more weight on how I think I will fit in, how I will be treated, and the overall workplace environment blah blah (you get the picture) However 25% less is not low enough for me to want to leave after a year to find something better...you could maybe throw that in there to!

I don't know just trying to help. In all actuality 25% less than public isn't that bad. Good luck!! Keep us posted.
Click to expand...

I dunno rookie... I am still struggling with this. It seems that unless I cut some expenses, I can't afford to earn less that what I was accustomed to making. :unsure:
 
jen3125 said:
What two instructional tools would you need to have in the classroom?

For some reason this question threw me :confused:
Click to expand...


I guess the best answer is a computer, and an overhead projector.

It is important to reach students thru several means, including visual and audio. Therefore, for a more indepth study, I use the Internet for discovering different ways to present a topic. I think it is important that today's students utilize computers for research as well.

When giving lectures, I think the overhead works better than the chalk/dry erase board. A teacher must have his/her back turned while writing on a board. However, when you use the overhead, you are able to quickly jot down and circle answers, and highlight information while still facing the class.

(of course newer, modern classrooms will have the Smart Board, which actually combines these two tools)
 
Master Pre-K said:
I guess the best answer is a computer, and an overhead projector.

It is important to reach students thru several means, including visual and audio. Therefore, for a more indepth study, I use the Internet for discovering different ways to present a topic. I think it is important that today's students utilize computers for research as well.

When giving lectures, I think the overhead works better than the chalk/dry erase board. A teacher must have his/her back turned while writing on a board. However, when you use the overhead, you are able to quickly jot down and circle answers, and highlight information while still facing the class.

(of course newer, modern classrooms will have the Smart Board, which actually combines these two tools)
Click to expand...

Thanks for responding...I guess it threw me for a loop because I think in terms of what I would LIKE to have not what I NEED to have. I need air to breathe...I would like to have an ELMO projector... :)
 
jen3125 said:
Thanks for responding...I guess it threw me for a loop because I think in terms of what I would LIKE to have not what I NEED to have. I need air to breathe...I would like to have an ELMO projector... :)
Click to expand...

ELMO?? what's that?? enlighten me!

Of course, I have plenty of silly answers.

Stapler and scissors

Intercom and a window

Screwdriver and pair of pliers

Broom and a mop
(note, if you don't get these.. bring your own!!)

Masking tape and a pointer

A flyswatter and some ticky tack

A sharpie marker and a giant easel pad.

A walkie talkie and a private bathroom :p

Ok, a telephone and intercom!



good luck... :D Who knows....you may break the ice, and get a good laugh with these answers! It shows you have a sense of humor, and the initiative to make it. A good teacher could get anything done if you have any two items on this list!

don't forget to go to the website. Pick out anything you can that makes their district unique!!
 
Master Pre-K said:
ELMO?? what's that?? enlighten me!

Of course, I have plenty of silly answers.

Stapler and scissors

Intercom and a window

Screwdriver and pair of pliers

Broom and a mop
(note, if you don't get these.. bring your own!!)

Masking tape and a pointer

A flyswatter and some ticky tack

A sharpie marker and a giant easel pad.

A walkie talkie and a private bathroom :p

Ok, a telephone and intercom!



good luck... :D Who knows....you may break the ice, and get a good laugh with these answers! It shows you have a sense of humor, and the initiative to make it. A good teacher could get anything done if you have any two items on this list!

don't forget to go to the website. Pick out anything you can that makes their district unique!!
Click to expand...


The ELMO is a device sort of like the updated version of an overhead. YOu can put a book under the lens and it projects it - so no need for transparencies :) it is a really cool device...another version i have used is called the document camera. I loved using it :)
 
I have an interview tomorrow for a third grade position. They called me about three hours ago and I've been reading this section ever since. UGH. I need a little elaboration on....

Core teaching strategies, I saw this a few times what core teaching strategies would you use in your classroom? Does anyone know a list of core teaching strategies. Is it something specific they are looking for or is it just strategies in general?

Also I didn't really see any questions about writing. A lot about reading. But what about Writer's Workshop? What do you think they might ask?

Ok thanks everyone!
 
Thanks! There's so much to know. It gets overwhelming. I don't like short notice either. It's only my second interview and I didn't get much time to prepare!
 
You do realize that was two questions...

What is a core?

:D


Can you repeat that Alex??? :rolleyes:

"Core means "the innermost part of something." To me core teaching means teaching from your evaluation/assessment process. You teach the categories you assess to show progress in learning."

"Cooperative Learning-students work in groups
Problem Solving-students are given a problem to solve
Whole Group Instruction-teach to the whole class
Small Group Instruction-Working with small groups based on ability level or interest (guided reading)

Teaching strategies are strategies you use in the classroom to teach your students-how you present/deliver the lesson/content. "


cut from another teacher forum...

once you analyze what they want..it doesn't seem so bad..

I feel like, "Oh, that's what you mean!"

:crosseyed

Higher order thinking to see if we are high or ordered

:lol::lol::lol:
 
I say answer everything like you're at a spelling bee...


What is your full name?

"My name, yes.. I have a name... Tell me is this for a group or indiviudal? Master Pre-K, Sp. Ed., Early Childhood Education teacher, that is my name."

(unless you have a check, then its Master Pre-K, Sp. Ed hyphen Jones/Smith/Robinson..., I go by whatever the check says :p )
 
Help Collect Interview Questions

Great thread. I love the idea behind it. I could use your help for my website www. roadtoteaching .com

I started this website with the intention of helping new teachers entering the profession. In particular, I need content-specific and elementary-specific teacher interview questions.

Please email me (eric@road2teaching.com) or post comments of any additional interview questions and I will post them on my blog, so my visitors can benefit from them.

Great work!
Eric
 
Hi all,

I too have some questions. I apologize if they have been discussed here earlier. These questions have been recently asked in an interview for a science teaching position.

1. How do you maintain positive realtionship with your co-teachers/peers/senior teachers? (OR How will you collaborate with other teachers?)

2. What would you do on the first day of school? (I am a little confused about this question :confused:. I am not sure what they are looking for. Any ideas?? )

3. How will you show your students that you are the person in charge of the classroom?

Please share your answers/responses.

Thanks.
 
Master Pre-K said:
ELMO?? what's that?? enlighten me!

Of course, I have plenty of silly answers.

Stapler and scissors

Intercom and a window

Screwdriver and pair of pliers

Broom and a mop
(note, if you don't get these.. bring your own!!)

Masking tape and a pointer

A flyswatter and some ticky tack

A sharpie marker and a giant easel pad.

A walkie talkie and a private bathroom :p

Ok, a telephone and intercom!



good luck... :D Who knows....you may break the ice, and get a good laugh with these answers! It shows you have a sense of humor, and the initiative to make it. A good teacher could get anything done if you have any two items on this list!

don't forget to go to the website. Pick out anything you can that makes their district unique!!
Click to expand...

You are so funny!:lol::lol:
 
Master Pre-K said:
I say answer everything like you're at a spelling bee...


What is your full name?

"My name, yes.. I have a name... Tell me is this for a group or indiviudal? Master Pre-K, Sp. Ed., Early Childhood Education teacher, that is my name."

(unless you have a check, then its Master Pre-K, Sp. Ed hyphen Jones/Smith/Robinson..., I go by whatever the check says :p )
Click to expand...


I have a feeling that I am going to burst out laughing during my interview today when they ask me my name.
 
Science_teacher said:
Hi all,

I too have some questions. I apologize if they have been discussed here earlier. These questions have been recently asked in an interview for a science teaching position.

1. How do you maintain positive realtionship with your co-teachers/peers/senior teachers? (OR How will you collaborate with other teachers?)

I believe it is important to have respect and understanding for everyone. You must give respect to get respect. I would make sure I listen attentatively, and offer positive advice and constructive criticism during meetings. I feel that I am resourceful, and always willing to share ideas, especially if they are useful to other grade levels. Colloboration is essential for teachers and students. I would invite higher and lower grades to visit my class, and do a project together. In this way, students will have a better understanding of what they have learned, and what lies ahead. Teachers will appreciate efforts that are made in other grades, and how we can work better as a team for higher test scores.

(yeah, flakely, a little b.s., but some of it is true.. :D )

2. What would you do on the first day of school? (I am a little confused about this question :confused:. I am not sure what they are looking for. Any ideas?? )

The first day of school (note... get harry wong's book, it is great!), I would use that opportunity to get to know my students, and let them know all about me. I would set up classroom rules and organization, i.e. lunch/arrival/departure procedures. I would take my class on a walk throughout the building, to instruct them on proper procedures for walking in the halls, and help them become familiar with the various areas of the building that we will be using, i.e. gym/cafeteria. I would end the day with play time outdoors, and have the children line up, to practice the procedure.

3. How will you show your students that you are the person in charge of the classroom?

I will go over the class rules, and ask that they help me write 2 more. I will point out that everyone must listen and follow directions to stay safe and have a happy environment. In order to do that, the teacher is the person in charge. I will let them know that sometimes, we can have students lead a lesson, or read a book, but in the end, they must listen to Mom and Dad at home, and they must listen to Ms. X in the classroom.

Please share your answers/responses.

Thanks.
Click to expand...

you're welcomed!

good questions!!!
 
Beth561 said:
I have a feeling that I am going to burst out laughing during my interview today when they ask me my name.
Click to expand...

hey, I don't want to get bounced outta there because I had a previous name at another job, and they accuse me of lying on my application!

weird things like that have happened! :unsure:
 
Ok I got the same question twice. I think I'm answering it right.

Question: "If a student comes into school with a bruise on their face that you did not notice the day before and that student comes up to you and says I need to tell you something but you have to promise not to tell anyone. What do you do?"

Answer: I would sit down with the child and ask them to tell me what happen. I would take notes in a notebook during the conversation. Then that I would explain to the student that there are people in the school that can help us. I would hope that the student trusted me enough to agree to speek with others. Then I would go directly to my principal and explain what happen.


Ok here's my question....Is that what they want us to say? We aren't suppose to say to the child that we won't tell anyone right? I don't want to lie to my students. But I guess then there's the chance they won't tell you what happen if you don't promise. So what are you suppse to do?????? :unsure:
 
I'm wondering if this is a loaded question and what they are trying to find out is how far we will go into a student's personal life. I think I remember reading in a thread somewhere about how (in this age of technology-my space etc.) principals want us to realize we can not be social workers or confidants or friends with our students. I'm not sure of the age group you were interviewing for but is it possible they were looking for you to respond with: "I'm not sure if I will be able to help you but the guidance dept. can." Or something else that is supportive yet objective. As I said, I'm not at all sure but it might be worth a thought.
 
Yea I hear you. It was for a third grade position. The first time was for a pre-k position, both with the same district.

It's so hard to know what the right answer was. The site said though not to make promises that won't happen. Not to say to the child that you won't tell anyone. So that's good that I didn't say that.

I know in NY you have to report abuse, but the principal or guidance counselor would not the teacher. I'm interviewing for CT I have to research and see if it's the same.

They just like to make us really nervous during interviews. This was only my second interview.
 
I'm sure you answered correctly. I'm guessing you are up by Mt. Kisco if you are looking in Ct. They are probably very traditional so I would guess that they always want to hear that you will inform them of everthing that is going on.
 
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