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Is majoring in English, beneficial when one is looking to become an High-School English Teacher?

Throughout High-School, English has been my favorite subject. Recently, I have seriously started to consider becoming a Secondary Education Teacher. It seems only natural that English would be the subject I want to pursue. So, I was wondering if it would be beneficial to major in English, rather than Education. #teacher #major #english

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Lou’s Answer

I majored in English and also taught middle school ELA for two years. I found that my English degree was helpful in that it allowed me to really know how to break down and read a text with my students. However, I think to be a good teacher, there is some benefit to having an education background. If possible, try for both.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Your response was really helpful :) Especially, because you can really relate! Alaina
Thank you comment icon Hi Alaina. Yes, majoring in English will be very beneficial to you. If you major in English, consider taking classes in Education, or taking a minor in Education. Or you can major in Education, with a minor in English. As Lou has suggested, exposing yourself to both fields of study will be very helpful to you. Finally, and most importantly, seek out places where you can get experience teaching, along with observations and practical feedback from experienced teachers. In my opinion, as a teacher for 15 years, this is the single most important factor to you becoming a great high school teacher. Stella Dubish
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Rachel’s Answer

Yes absolutely so the career-sector your would go in is Secondary English Teacher. Here is some helfpul info as well.


Teaching involves a number of different skills and qualities whether public/private/charter. I would say the most important are:


  1. People skills - being friendly and working well with others. You will need to be personable, caring, kind, friendly, compassionate, and understanding. These qualities make a great teacher. But you also need to be stern and firm in your directions, rules, and discipline
  2. Public speaking - every day in your class you will need to be able to speak and present information to your students, practice speech, and practice fluency of language and talking in front of others
  3. The subject you plan to teach - become a master of the subject you plan to teach, make sure you know as much as possible and learn as much as you can about the subject you plan to teach. Take as many classes as possible in this subject and learn everything you can about it.
  4. Psychology & Human Development - start reading books and research articles on human development and psych. It will be helpful for you to know how people learn at different stages and the best ways to teach them at these stages (depending on stage of development and schema).
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Alaina,

Sounds right to me!

Majoring in English can be highly beneficial when looking to become a High School English Teacher. While majoring in Education is a common path for aspiring teachers, majoring in English can provide a strong foundation in the subject matter you will be teaching, which is crucial for effectively conveying the material to students. Here are several reasons why majoring in English can be advantageous for aspiring High School English Teachers:

In-depth Understanding of the Subject Matter: Majoring in English allows you to delve deeply into literature, language, writing, and critical analysis. This comprehensive understanding of the subject will not only enhance your own knowledge and passion for English but also enable you to effectively teach these concepts to high school students.

Ability to Teach Diverse Topics: With a major in English, you will have the expertise to teach a wide range of topics within the subject area, including American and British literature, poetry, grammar, composition, and more. This versatility can make you a more well-rounded and adaptable teacher.

Strong Communication Skills: Studying English hones your communication skills, both written and verbal. As a High School English Teacher, effective communication is essential for engaging students, explaining complex concepts clearly, providing constructive feedback on writing assignments, and fostering classroom discussions.

Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills: A major in English cultivates critical thinking skills that are invaluable for educators. You will learn how to analyze texts, interpret meanings, evaluate arguments, and think creatively – all skills that are transferable to teaching high school students how to think critically and approach literature with depth.

Preparation for Advanced Studies: Majoring in English can also lay the groundwork for pursuing advanced degrees in education or related fields if you decide to further your career as an educator or academic.

In conclusion, while majoring in Education provides pedagogical training and classroom experience, majoring in English offers a specialized focus on the content you will be teaching as a High School English Teacher. Combining a strong foundation in English with education courses or certification programs can equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this role.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) - The NCTE is a professional association dedicated to improving the teaching and learning of English language arts at all levels of education. Their research-based resources provide valuable insights into effective practices for teaching English.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS offers data on the occupational outlook for teachers, including information on educational requirements, job prospects, and salary expectations for High School Teachers specializing in English.

Education Commission of the States (ECS) - The ECS is a nonpartisan organization that tracks state policy trends affecting education systems across the U.S. Their reports on teacher preparation programs and licensure requirements can offer guidance on choosing an appropriate academic path for aspiring educators.

These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information and research findings related to the benefits of majoring in English for individuals aspiring to become High School English Teachers.

GOD BLESS YOU BECAUSE HE CAN!
JC.
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