What kind of teacher?

Question

Ok, originally I was going to major in history- but they say basically all you can do is teach-- so I am majoring in education.

Now, when I was at orientation they asked what kind of education? Originally I was wanting to become a history teacher but upon thinking a little more of it, I think childhood education might be fun.

My question is-- which may have better salary (obviously teaching isn't known for it's good pay-- but of the two, is there maybe a slight difference?

Or which may seem more fun? Anyone know from experience or have any suggestions on which is may be more fun/better pay? Elementary education or history teacher for secondary/high schools?

Answer 1

Kids get bored easily in history class unless you can "wow" them--go for the elementary ed.

Answer 2

From knowledge, i know that teaching younger kids is always better. If you teach at high school, you have kids not giving in their assignments, and having to mark much harder work. Working with younger kids is such an achievment, as you know you are helping them grow to be clever little children! It is also very rewarding as they become attached to you, and you can always see they are happy, and hardly ever fight and ***** like older kids might do.

Answer 3

First of all, the salary should be the same.  Most school systems pay based on your level of education (Masters, Doctorate, etc...) and number of years experience.  Whether you teach elementary, middle or high school won't make any difference.

As to which is more fun...that really depends on your personality.  If you're passionate about history, chances are you can find ways to make it more interesting for teens.  Expect to have to fight more for their attention and get less appreciation from students and parents for what you do.

Elementary kids tend to still enjoy school and their parents are more involved (which can be good and bad).  You won't have to work so hard to keep them interested in what you're teaching, but you're also expected to teach EVERYTHING and still make it interesting.

I would make the decision based on the age of kids you most enjoy being around.  I'm a history buff myself, but decided against teaching teens mostly because I don't care that much for teens (I didn't really like them even when I was one).  I teach sixth grade and even though some of the content isn't as interesting to me, the kids appreciate the things I do to help them understand what we have to cover.

You might also want to ask some of your former teachers for advice.  Also, you can sign up to be a substitute teacher and try subbing in several different grade levels.  See which ones appeal to you most.  You'll also get a lot of great ideas about things you may want to try (or avoid) in your classroom once you get your degree.  I actually thought I wanted to teach Kindergarten until I subbed for a few classes.  Turns out the older elementary kids are much more my speed.

Good luck!