Trying to decide between teaching 2nd grade or middle school math and science. Advice?

Question

am getting ready to enroll in college, and I am having a hard time choosing my major. I want a career as a teacher, but the problem is I can't decide whether I want to teach elementary school (I would prefer 2nd grade), or middle school math and science. I love math and science (biology in particular), and I think I would enjoy teaching middle school because I would love to help motivate the kids that seem to "give up" at this point in their schooling. On the other hand, I love the possibilities of teaching 2nd graders- they are usually still so eager to learn, you get to do arts and crafts, fun field trips ect. anyway any thoughts on teaching 2nd graders or middle schoolers would be helpful. Also- how did you choose? Thanks

Answer 1

I think the most rewarding choice for you would to be teaching the middle schoolers, especially since you are teaching those normally dreaded subjects of math and science, you can take a bunch of kids who dont like these subjects, and by teaching in a fun and creative manner, you can motivate them to do better, start concentrating, and above all starting to love math and science. another suggestion though, is dont give them the traditional "problems from the book" homework, give them fun and exciting homework that will motivate them even more. You can also take your class on field trips to learn math and science by doing, you can take them to natural parks, and based on what youve taught in class ask them questions about what they see around them. Teaching grade two would still be good, though in middle school you get way more opportunity to motivate the students who have "given up"

Hope this helps, and I hope you excell in your teaching career. The kids, no matter what grade you choosee, will admire and respect you, i am sure.

Answer 2

First of all, when you get a teaching job, you don't get to pick what grade you will be teaching.  The school district will have an opening for you and that is where they will put you.  After you've been in the district a few years, if a grade opens up that you think you want to move into, then you must apply for it through your superintendent.  If you are not sure about whether you want to major in elementary or secondary, double major and take classes for both of them.  Later on, you might be able to decide which way you want to go.  Good luck and best wishes for a long and properous teaching career.  We need more like you.