Teacher

Teach students basic academic, social, and other formative skills in public or private schools at the elementary level.

Educational Requirements

for Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
The typical entry level education for this occupation is a bachelor’s degree. Those with a master’s degree have a competitive advantage in the labor market.

Knowledge

Examples of the knowledge needed for success in this occupation is listed below, in order of importance.
  • Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
  • English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Psychology: Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
  • Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
  • Sociology and Anthropology: Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.

Skills

Examples of the skills needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Instructing: Teaching people how to do something.
  • Speaking: Talking to others.
  • Learning Strategies: Using the best training or teaching strategies for learning new things.
  • Active Listening: Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
  • Active Learning: Figuring out how to use new ideas or things.

Abilities

Examples of the abilities needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Oral Expression: Communicating by speaking.
  • Oral Comprehension: Listening and understanding what people say.
  • Speech Clarity: Speaking clearly.
  • Speech Recognition: Recognizing spoken words.
  • Written Comprehension: Reading and understanding what is written.

Detailed Work Activities

Examples of the detailed work activities involved with this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Apply multiple teaching methods.
  • Modify teaching methods or materials to accommodate student needs.
  • Establish rules or policies governing student behavior.
  • Encourage students.
  • Monitor student behavior, social development, or health.