How to Become an Online English Teacher?

Obtaining your undergraduate degree in English is the first step toward becoming an English teacher. You must complete general education courses and educational prerequisites before applying to a teaching program focusing on English.

• For elementary school, you'll need a bachelor's degree in elementary education.
• Middle or high school requirements include a bachelor's degree in secondary education or a degree in English with a minor in education.
• K-12 programs with non-native English-speaking students require a bachelor's degree with English as a second language.
• College or university English teachers get an advanced education such as a doctorate or master's degree in English.

You can attend conferences and workshops offered by a university, clubs, and professional organizations to further connect with English educators.

Internships designed for English teachers will help you develop teaching skills in a real-world educational environment. Many universities have programs that allow their students to secure internships.

Several teacher certification programs require teacher candidates to complete a semester or more of student teaching. Student teaching is a type of internship where participants gain practical classroom management experience. Student teaching is often a college-credit course assigned through the university for which English teacher candidates pay to enroll.

A student-teacher will work under the supervision of a licensed teacher with additional certification specific to working with student-teachers. The supervising teacher will model best teaching practices, allow the student-teacher to teach lessons, assess performance, deal with disciplinary actions as needed, and provide feedback on lesson plan development. A professor at the college or university issuing the degree often observes the student-teacher for a lesson or two to assess the student-teacher's skills and teaching competency.

After completing your education, internship, and any necessary certifications, you're ready to apply for your job as an English teacher. Creating a professional, organized resume that highlights your credentials, achievements, education, and relevant experience can help capture the attention of institutions looking for an English teacher. You should also prepare a teaching philosophy that documents your professional goals as an English teacher and explains how you teach English to students.

If you have experience teaching English to specific groups of children, such as those with special needs or ESOL (English as a Second or Foreign Language) learners, be sure to emphasize this training in your application materials.

Portfolios of sample lesson plans, teaching ideology, and student assessment examples are an effective way to showcase your knowledge and experience.