The basic certification requirements to teach math will vary by state. However, most math teaching positions require a minimum of an undergraduate degree and state certification. The National Board of Teaching Standards suggests that accomplished mathematics teachers will utilize and use new approaches to teach math and to foster a positive learning atmosphere. Additionally, the National Board of Teaching Standards outlines twelve standards for math educators.
Commitment
The first standard outlines the requirements of maintaining a commitment to the students. This commitment is to provide access to a full mathematics curriculum for all students and to value the worth and individuality of each student.
Knowledge (Standards 2-4)
Math educators will need to understand the background and societal influences that affect students and their education and will use that understanding to make appropriate curricular choices. In the development of assessments, lesson plans and teaching goals, math teachers will need to rely on an extensive knowledge base in mathematics.
There are several options for obtaining the needed knowledge base to become a math educator. A major in mathematics can be pursued as an undergraduate degree followed with a teacher certification program. Another option would be to pursue an educational degree with an emphasis in mathematics. Additionally, a master’s or graduate level degree may be required. Alternatively, where there is a high need for math teachers, graduates with a bachelor’s degree may begin teaching under supervision with a provisional license until they become a certified teacher. In some states, there may be a foreign language requirement.
Advanced Student Learning Standards (Standards 5-9)
Additionally, math teachers will need to understand teaching methods and strategies. They will also need to consider how best to teach their students based on their own experiences and knowledge in conjunction with the students’ abilities and challenges. Also, math teachers should seek to create environments where students can learn safely and have a positive attitude towards math and learning. This can be done by focusing on helping students apply mathematical concepts to their daily lives, challenging the students to explore concepts and solve problems both individually and in groups.
Technological resources can help students grasp concepts and engage their interests and should be used in a mathematics curriculum. Therefore, math teachers will need to understand and be able to use technology effectively. Math teachers should also understand how math is used in real life scenarios and be able to implement effective teaching strategies.
Professional Development and Outreach (Standards 10-12)
Math teachers are expected to keep up with the changes in the mathematics field and to work at improving their teaching strategies. They are encouraged to collaborate with other educators in order to improve the quality of the mathematics and educational fields.
References
Middle Childhood Through Early Adolescence/Mathematics Standards, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
High School Math Teacher Requirements and Career Info, Education-Portal.com
Math Teacher Training Requirements, Education-Portal.com
Secondary Math Teacher Career Info and Education Requirements, Education-Portal.com
Becoming a Math Teacher: Career Roadmap, Education-Portal.com
Adolescence and Young Adulthood Mathematics Standards, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
