According to the U.S. Department of Education, teachers who teach science may qualify for benefits associated with teacher shortage areas. Often, science teachers are in short supply. Teaching in a teacher shortage area may reduce the amount of student loans you must pay back. To become a science teacher, you need a bachelor's degree, teacher training and passing exam scores.
College Coursework
Science teachers must complete at least a bachelor's degree. Coursework should include an emphasis in one or more science disciplines. Science disciplines typically taught in elementary school include general science, earth science, biological science and physical science. High school science teachers may teach biology, anatomy, physics and chemistry.
Teacher Preparation
All teachers must complete a teacher education program. Typically, teacher education programs are completed as part of a bachelor's degree. Teacher preparation programs include coursework addressing teacher strategies and learning theories. Teacher preparation programs usually culminate with a student teaching experience. However, if you already have a bachelor's degree, you may be able to complete an alternate-route teacher-preparation program. Alternate-route teachers may be able to begin teaching while completing alternate-route program requirements.
Teacher Exams
All states require teachers to demonstrate competency on some type of teacher exam. Most states use the Praxis tests. The Praxis offers science tests for general science, biology, chemistry, physical science, physics, Earth and space science. Science teachers may also need to take the Principles in Teaching and Learning test for the grade levels they intend to teach. To determine exactly what tests you need to take, contact your state's Department of Education.
Other Requirements
To become a teacher, you need to submit to fingerprinting and pass criminal background checks. Check your state's Department of Education to determine if any other requirements must be met to obtain a science teaching license in your state.
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