Major: Middle School Teaching
The middle school years are a thrilling stage in the life cycle. People at this age can master all kinds of physical and mental challenges, doing amazing skateboard tricks, writing inspired essays, and acing math quizzes. Yet, in many ways, they're just beginning to live -- so many experiences lie ahead of them.
Middle school teachers choose to be a part of this exciting turning point. Where some adults see "attitude," gifted teachers see energy and curiosity. They want to help students shape all that potential in ways that will make a positive difference in the world.
Students in this major learn to teach middle school (also known as intermediate school or junior high). Middle school can range from grade four through grade nine, depending on the school system.
“My biggest interest is effecting change and my best [quality] is my patience. These two things make me well-suited to teach middle grades.”
Daphne, senior, middle grades (concentrations in math and social science), University of North Carolina
Are You Ready To...?
- Study one or two academic subjects (such as math) in depth so that you can teach them
- Learn about theories that attempt to explain the way middle school students learn and grow
- Design lesson plans and practice teaching them in front of your peers
- Observe middle school classrooms and write reports on your observations
- Spend a semester student teaching under the guidance of an experienced teacher
It Helps to Be...
Equally passionate about teaching academic subjects and helping students develop their personalities. One minute you might be guiding a class through a science lesson, and the next, listening as a student shares a private hope or fear.
College Checklist
- Is the program accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and approved by the state's department of education?
- Does the college offer a specific program for middle school education, with professors who are experts in this age group?
- Does the program require that you double major in education and an academic subject?
- Are there strong middle schools nearby where you can student teach?
- Will you be able to teach in states other than the one where the program is located?
Did You Know?
- Middle school teachers are in demand in many parts of the United States.
Course Spotlight
As part of your studies, you'll observe middle school teachers in their classrooms and spend a semester student teaching. In these field placements, as they're called, you'll discover how teachers handle the special needs of middle school learners. You'll gather clues as to how you'll provide your future students with structure and support while giving them the freedom to try out their own ideas.
You'll get to discuss what you learn with classroom teachers, university professors, and other students in your program. All of this hands-on experience will help you step confidently into your own classroom after graduation.
Explore this major in more depth on MyRoad™