Preparing for a Teaching Demonstration
A teaching demonstration may be part of the interview selection process, giving the hiring committee an opportunity to observe your teaching abilities in action. This exercise helps assess your classroom management, presentation skills, and teaching style, providing valuable insight into how you connect with students.
Questions to Ask in Preparation
How long should my teaching demo be?
Clarify the timeframe for your lesson to ensure it's appropriately planned and fits within the interview schedule.
Will the curriculum be provided?
Ask if you'll be given a specific curriculum or if you should choose your own content. Ensure you understand what to cover.
What if the curriculum isn't provided? How do I ensure I'm covering the correct information?
Discuss the guidelines to ensure your lesson aligns with the expectations of the hiring team.
Will I teach the same subject/grade level that I am applying for?
Confirm whether the demo lesson should reflect the role you are interviewing for, including the grade level and subject area.
Should I prepare for any special accommodations for students?
Inquire if there are any specific needs or accommodations for students you should plan for during your lesson.
Clarify the timeframe for your lesson to ensure it's appropriately planned and fits within the interview schedule.
Will the curriculum be provided?
Ask if you'll be given a specific curriculum or if you should choose your own content. Ensure you understand what to cover.
What if the curriculum isn't provided? How do I ensure I'm covering the correct information?
Discuss the guidelines to ensure your lesson aligns with the expectations of the hiring team.
Will I teach the same subject/grade level that I am applying for?
Confirm whether the demo lesson should reflect the role you are interviewing for, including the grade level and subject area.
Should I prepare for any special accommodations for students?
Inquire if there are any specific needs or accommodations for students you should plan for during your lesson.
Tips for Nailing Your Teaching Demonstration
Prepare, prepare, prepare!
Practice your lesson multiple times. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel.
Practice in front of others.
If possible, rehearse in front of a friend, family member, or even a mirror. Constructive feedback can help refine your approach.
Present as if you are teaching your own classroom.
Treat the teaching demo as a real teaching experience. Typically, you'll be presenting to an actual classroom of students. Use your teaching style, classroom management techniques, and interactive strategies to engage the students effectively. Aim to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that reflects your approach as a teacher.
Be yourself.
Let your enthusiasm and passion for teaching shine through. Authenticity will help make a strong impression.
Bring necessary materials.
Be sure to bring all the materials you'll need for the lesson, especially if it's interactive. Plan for any technology, handouts, or visual aids in advance.
Prepare for student interaction.
Engage with the students. Plan questions, discussions, and activities that actively encourage participation. Create opportunities for students to contribute, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.
Practice your lesson multiple times. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel.
Practice in front of others.
If possible, rehearse in front of a friend, family member, or even a mirror. Constructive feedback can help refine your approach.
Present as if you are teaching your own classroom.
Treat the teaching demo as a real teaching experience. Typically, you'll be presenting to an actual classroom of students. Use your teaching style, classroom management techniques, and interactive strategies to engage the students effectively. Aim to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that reflects your approach as a teacher.
Be yourself.
Let your enthusiasm and passion for teaching shine through. Authenticity will help make a strong impression.
Bring necessary materials.
Be sure to bring all the materials you'll need for the lesson, especially if it's interactive. Plan for any technology, handouts, or visual aids in advance.
Prepare for student interaction.
Engage with the students. Plan questions, discussions, and activities that actively encourage participation. Create opportunities for students to contribute, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.