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What college classes do I need in order to become an Elementary teacher?

Examples, of basic classes are English, ethnic studies, etc. I am currently attending a community college so I won't need to take a class at a University.

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Karissa’s Answer

Take all of the classes to obtain an Associates of Arts degree. You do not need to have a focus such as Education. Your college will have some sort of General Studies Associates degree. Within this degree you will have electives. Take Intro to Education and Special Education.
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Shrungali’s Answer

Hello Liliana,
For elementary teaching, the classes one must take will depend on a nation's set of rules and a process for certification or licensure. As such, this gives a general overview of the classes that you would normally go through in college to understand what becoming an elementary teacher entails:

1. Education-Specific Courses
Foundations of Education: This course will involve the history, philosophy, and ethics of education.
Child Development or Educational Psychology: Knowledge of the development of cognition, emotion, and social behavior in children forms the backbone for teaching at the elementary school level. Classroom Management: It involves methods through which a classroom is managed; good behavior and ill behavior of students are dealt with; and an environment conducive to learning is created. Teaching Methodologies in Elementary School: Mathematics, reading, writing, and other subjects have certain ways of instruction in an elementary school setting. Curriculum Development: The course will help develop lesson plans, curricula, and assessments at different levels.
Teaching Reading and Literacy: This is an important subject since elementary teachers have to impart the basic learning of reading and understanding.

2. Subject Area Courses
Elementary teachers normally cover a general stream of subjects, hence the requirement for courses in the following areas:

Mathematics for Teachers: Classes specifically designed for the teaching of mathematics to younger age groups.
Science for Elementary Teachers: The course deals with basic science subjects and how to impart these ideas at the elementary level.
Reading and Literacy Instruction: The pedagogical skills of teaching students to read, write, and use language effectively. Social Studies: Instruction in history, geography, and civics adapted for younger learners. Arts Education: Music, art, and creative expression are integrated into the classroom. 3. Practicum and Student Teaching Classroom Practicum: Observation and participation in classrooms under the mentorship of seasoned teachers.
Student Teaching Internship: A full-semester or longer teaching in a real elementary classroom. Often this is the culminating experience within your teacher preparation program where you apply what you've learned.
4. Other Requirements
Certification Tests: Many countries and states require passing some type of test(s) before teaching. Some examples from the United States include the Praxis or state-specific test.
Special Education or ELL: Most programs will include classes in working with students with special needs, or students who are learning the English language.
5. Optional but Recommended
Using Technology in Education: Learning the way technology can be embedded into teaching is an asset.
Diversity and Inclusion: Classes focused on understanding and addressing student population needs.
Check for country, state, and region requirements that may have different certification processes and coursework.

Good Luck.
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Christian’s Answer

I am a former academic advisor so I would highly encourage you to reach out to the transfer center or admissions department of the university you plan to attend before making any decisions beyond your basic requirements. The way that classes transfer can differ drastically from university to university (especially out of state or outside of your states University system) and every university's major will have different requirements. These departments should be able to help guide you toward what courses will transfer best and be most useful for your prospective major.

Best of luck!
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Camille’s Answer

I graduated as a Child and Adolescent Development major in 2023. What I used to do was look up my college's major worksheet where it would say what classes were necessary to complete the program. If you attend a community college in California and do end up planning on transferring to a CSU or UC, you can use assist.com to figure out exactly what classes transfer and what you need for admission to your CSU/UC of choice.
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Lirio’s Answer

To become an elementary teacher, you should focus on a mix of general education and teaching-specific classes while at community college. Here are some key classes to consider:

Start with basic courses like English composition and literature, as strong reading and writing skills are essential. Math courses are also important, particularly elementary mathematics, to prepare you for teaching math concepts to young students.

In addition, take classes in child development or educational psychology to understand how children learn and grow. Courses in classroom management and instructional methods will be valuable for teaching techniques.

You might also consider courses in science, social studies, and art to round out your knowledge in subjects you will teach. If your community college offers ethnic studies or multicultural education, these can help you understand diverse student backgrounds.

Finally, look for opportunities to gain practical experience, such as volunteering in classrooms or tutoring, to enhance your teaching skills and resume.
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Monica’s Answer

Hello Liliana, future Elementary teacher☺️

I'm beyond thrilled to help you on your journey! As a passionate educator, I know that teachers are shaping lives and impacting the world—one young mind at a time!
Your dedication to becoming an Elementary teacher is inspiring, and I'm honored to guide you through the process.
For a start, let's explore the essential college classes you may need:

*Education Foundation:*

1. Introduction to Education
2. Child Development
3. Educational Psychology
4. Classroom Management
5. Teaching Methods (Elementary Education)

*Subject-Specific:*

1. Elementary Math Methods
2. Elementary Reading Methods
3. Children's Literature
4. Science for Elementary Teachers
5. Social Studies for Elementary Teachers

*General Education:*

1. English Composition
2. Communication Skills
3. Ethnic Studies
4. Psychology
5. Sociology

*Additional Empowerment:*

1. Child Growth and Development
2. Language Development
3. Special Education
4. Technology in Education
5. Student Teaching or Field Experience (if available)

Remember, these classes are just the beginning. Your passion, patience, and creativity will make the real difference in the lives of your students.
Keep shining✨✨✨, future teacher! You're about to change the world, one student at a time💪💪

Wishing you the best on your journey 🙌
Thank you comment icon I appreciate this, thank you for the advice. Liliana
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Thank you comment icon You're most welcome Liliana ☺️ Monica Chibuogwu
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