Math Teacher Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a Math teacher. Feel free to use our Math teacher job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a Math teacher.
Who is a Math Teacher?
Mathematicians are individuals who have chosen to specialize in the study of mathematics, specifically the manipulation of numbers, variables, and abstract concepts through equations and theorems. They work on a variety of subjects, from mathematics history to theoretical mathematics, and in a variety of industries, including computer science and engineering. Mathematicians are also an integral part of research teams that focus on topics such as geology, demographics, and physics, and they work in a variety of settings.
Mathematics is an ancient subject. For thousands of years, humans have used numbers for both mundane and theoretical tasks, and they have also used math to learn about the world and the universe. Mathematicians calculated the data that enabled people to comprehend how the seasons worked, how to construct massive structures, and how to perform a variety of other tasks. Additionally, they made significant contributions to the advancement of science in a variety of cultures.
Certain mathematicians focus on applied or practical mathematics, which entails applying mathematics to real-world problems. A statistician, for instance, who compiles employment statistics may be considered an applied mathematician. These mathematicians frequently interpret data using pre-existing mathematical knowledge. Their abilities are applicable in a variety of settings, ranging from architecture firms to zoological parks.
Theoretical mathematicians focus on the theory of mathematics rather than its practical application. While some work on well-known problems, such as Fermat’s last theorem, others create new mathematical theorems with interesting applications or connotations. For instance, a mathematician can use mathematics to envision an entirely new approach to computer science or to describe crowd dynamics. Theoretical mathematicians are typically found in university settings.
Most mathematicians hold a doctoral degree, and many have also completed post-doctoral work. They may work in academic settings as well as government and private sector offices, and they may employ a variety of tools, including computer systems capable of performing extremely complex and detailed calculations. Deductive logic and critical thinking abilities, as well as the ability to make intuitive leaps, are also critical for professionals in this field, particularly those who work with theoretical mathematics.
A math teacher is responsible for instilling a love of mathematics in his or her students. He or she may instruct in single or multiple branches of mathematics, such as algebra, geometry, or calculus. Math teachers may work in secondary schools or colleges. They must have a firm grasp of all the mathematical concepts involved in the subjects they teach, as well as an understanding of the educational standards that govern what must be covered in each.
A math teacher will develop lesson plans to prepare for each day’s class. A lesson plan is a guide for what the teacher wishes to teach that day, including the concepts to be covered, the length of time each topic will be discussed, and problems for the students to practice. Frequently, the lesson plan will mirror the content of the course textbook. The level of detail in the lesson plan will almost certainly be determined by the teacher’s familiarity with the material.
After developing the lesson, the math teacher must deliver it to the class. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways, depending on the subject matter and the instructor’s preference. A lecture, in which the teacher does the majority of the speaking and also answers questions, may be most appropriate. Students may benefit from spending a portion of the lesson reading from the textbook. Additionally, a more interactive approach could be used, in which students work in pairs or groups to discuss concepts.
Typically, a math teacher will assign homework to ensure that students have absorbed the concepts covered in class and to provide an opportunity for practice. The instructor may create his or her homework problems or assign those found in the textbook. He or she will establish a deadline for homework submission, which is typically the following day. The teacher’s responsibility then is to check it and provide feedback to the students so they understand which areas they have grasped and which areas require improvement.
After a certain number of lessons, the teacher will typically test the class. Tests frequently cover a variety of related topics and require students to be familiar with the relevant theories, equations, and formulas. The math teacher may create new tests or repurpose previous exams as necessary. Following the students’ completion of the test, the teacher will need to review and grade them.
Math teachers instill mathematical principles in their students. They may teach general mathematics or specific fields of mathematics, such as geometry, algebra, or calculus, depending on the grade level and class. Their primary responsibility is to assist students in developing the ability to comprehend and solve mathematical problems in preparation for the next grade level.
While math teachers are typically employed in middle or high schools, they can teach students in any grade from kindergarten to 12th and beyond, depending on their qualifications. When it comes to calculus, trigonometry, and other advanced mathematics classes, a math teacher may require additional training.
Math Teacher Job Description
Below are the Math teacher job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a Math teacher job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
The duties and responsibilities of a Math teacher include the following:
- Developing and disseminating instructional materials such as notes, assignments, and quizzes.
- Sourcing the materials and resources required for lessons.
- Assuring a safe and conducive learning environment in the classroom.
- Maintaining records of and reporting on students’ progress.
- Attending parent and staff meetings.
- Establishing lesson plans
- Creating and correcting students’ homework and assignments
- Creating tests to assess students’ comprehension and correcting the tests
- Evaluating each student’s progress and abilities
- Observing state standards and guidelines to ensure that students meet established criteria
- Managing multiple classes of varying grades
- Conducting classroom management activities and communicating with parents and administrators
- Providing sound advice to students regarding academic and career options
- Creating math lesson plans that are appropriate for each grade level.
- Explaining mathematical concepts to students in simple and understandable terms.
- Teaching geometric concepts through the use of real-world examples.
- Increasing students’ enthusiasm for mathematics.
- Planning and developing instructional materials.
- Organizing a classroom surprise test.
- Correcting and grading test papers.
- Facilitating class discussions on a variety of subjects.
- Attending conferences with parents and teachers.
- Distributing educational materials to students.
- Providing additional instructional assistance to slow learners.
- Developing a strong rapport with the students.
- Collaborating with teachers and other school community members.
- Reporting on student progress in math.
Qualifications
Education
A bachelor’s degree in math or a closely related subject, such as accounting or mathematics education, is typically required to become a certified public school math teacher. Additionally, the majority of states require you to take a specified number of education classes, including human growth and development, curriculum planning and design, and classroom management. The specific courses required vary according to the location of the classroom and the state in which you live.
Licensure
In the majority of states, a bachelor’s degree is only the first step toward licensure. To earn a professional educator’s certificate, you must typically complete an approved teacher preparation program that includes student teaching and passing state examinations. If you have not previously worked as a student teacher, you will almost certainly be issued a temporary certificate for one or two years to allow you to complete the student teaching portion of your certificate.
Substitute Certification
If you do not have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or a closely related field, some states will allow you to sit for a test to obtain certification in your chosen field. If you pass a mathematics test, you are exempt from the requirement for a bachelor’s degree in the subject. Numerous states have programs designed to encourage industry professionals and mid-career professionals to teach; these programs typically consist of a condensed graduate school curriculum of two to three semesters and a semester as a student-teacher.
Essential Skills
- Mathematics knowledge
Extensive math knowledge is a necessary skill for an exceptional math teacher. Successful mathematics tutors can teach courses in geometry, statistics, algebra, and calculus, among other subjects. This expertise enables the teacher to confidently explain concepts and processes to their students without constantly consulting the teacher’s guide. This confidence is likely to increase the math teacher’s credibility and make it easier for students to trust the tutor’s ability to effectively transfer knowledge to them.
- Instruction methodologies
Learners have varying levels of comprehension, which a good tutor understands. A good math teacher will employ the most widely accepted practices in mathematics education and will instruct their students throughout the learning process. Additionally, they are aware of alternative methods of solving problems and apply them to assist learners in comprehending complex concepts. Their lesson plans incorporate the learners’ desires to assist them in developing confidence in their math abilities.
- Leadership Skills
A model math teacher leads their class and other school departments. Their students admire them for their mathematical expertise, their kind demeanor, and their actions. They are in charge of and control of their class. They do so by establishing explicit directives and expectations for students to follow. When students misbehave, a good teacher ensures that discipline measures are consistent and equitable.
- Consideration and concern
A skilled math educator recognizes that teaching is more about the learners than it is about the content. A good math teacher demonstrates concern for their students, recognizes when a learner is having difficulty, and resolves the issue to refocus the learner on the content. While excellent teacher expects students to perform, they recognize that life and family obligations may interfere with studying and homework. For this reason, an excellent teacher is always willing to give students a second chance and ensure that they catch up with the rest.
How to Become a Math Teacher
- Earn a bachelor’s degree
A bachelor’s degree is required to become a math teacher. While you can apply for a state teaching license with any major, you may wish to pursue a degree in education with a concentration in math or a related field. You can earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Secondary Education with a concentration in mathematics or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education with a concentration in mathematics.
You can earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics Education, a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Education with a math concentration, or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mathematics with a middle or secondary grades concentration.
- Complete an internship program for student teachers.
In some states, if you want to become a qualified teacher, you must complete a student teaching internship. This is a full-time program in which you will be supervised as you navigate the instructional classroom environment. Your teaching internship should be completed in the grade level for which you are seeking certification. The program lasts between eight and twelve weeks. Your internship will begin with the observation of a teacher in a classroom and will conclude with you taking over a class.
- Pass the teacher examination
Your state will require you to take a test to obtain certification to teach in public schools. The majority of states require prospective teachers to pass a basic skills examination and a subject knowledge examination. These tests will assess your ability to read, write, and perform basic math operations. While state requirements vary, the most frequently used tests are The National Evaluation Series and The Praxis Series.
- Apply for a teaching certificate.
With a state teaching certificate, you’ll be able to apply for math teaching jobs in your desired areas. This is a license that allows you to teach in the field in which you have chosen to specialize and in the state in which you wish to work. This license will be issued by the governing body in your home state. Then you can begin applying for math teaching jobs at your desired grade level.
Where to Work as a Math Teacher
As a mathematics teacher, you may work in a variety of settings, including the following:
- Public Schools
As a certified teacher, you are eligible to apply for positions in public schools. This option provides consistent employment opportunities and pay rates. As a public school teacher, you may also be represented by a union, which helps to stabilize your salary and provides necessary resources.
- Private Schools
If you have a mathematics degree and a desire to teach but do not possess a teacher preparation certificate, you may be able to find work in a private school. Private schools offer greater flexibility in terms of curriculum and educational focus. While some private schools may charge more, the majority charge less than public schools.
- Public charter schools
These schools are spin-offs from the public school system in a given state. As a math teacher, you may wish to look for schools that place a higher premium on STEM subjects. In charter schools, you may work with students who are particularly motivated and focused on learning math concepts.
- Military schools
You can apply for positions in military schools if you hold a nationally recognized teaching credential. You remain a civilian but educate soldier’s children on various military bases throughout the country. This is an excellent opportunity for teachers who enjoy traveling and experiencing new things.
- University or college
You can teach at the post-secondary level with a master’s degree. As a post-secondary math teacher, you will almost certainly teach the subject for which you earned your advanced degree. You could pursue a Master’s degree in education and tutor aspiring mathematics educators.
Math Teacher Salary Scale
In the United States, the national average salary for a Mathematics Teacher is $54,999 per year.