February 28, 2025
English teachers play a vital role in shaping students’ language skills, critical thinking, and communication abilities.
Whether you’re applying for a position as an elementary, middle school, high school, or ESL teacher, you need to demonstrate strong subject knowledge, classroom management skills, and a passion for education.
This guide covers common English teacher interview questions, along with insights into what interviewers are looking for and example answers to help you succeed.
What the interviewer wants to know:
They’re looking for a brief introduction that highlights your teaching background, qualifications, and passion for education.
Example Answer:
“I have a Bachelor’s degree in English and a teaching certification. For the past five years, I’ve been teaching high school English, focusing on literature and creative writing. I’m passionate about helping students develop strong communication skills and a love for reading. My approach combines interactive discussions and technology to make lessons more engaging and effective.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They want to understand your motivation for choosing this career and see if you have a genuine passion for teaching.
Example Answer:
“I’ve always loved literature and language, but my real passion lies in inspiring students to express themselves effectively. In college, I tutored ESL students, which made me realize the power of education in transforming lives. Teaching allows me to share my love for language while helping students develop essential life skills.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They’re testing if you researched the school, its teaching methods, and its educational philosophy.
Example Answer:
“I admire that your school emphasizes student-centered learning and integrates literature with real-world applications. Your use of project-based learning aligns with my approach to making literature relevant and engaging. I also noticed your recent efforts in incorporating digital tools into English instruction, which excites me because I love using technology to enhance lessons.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They want to see if you understand differentiated instruction and can support struggling students effectively.
Example Answer:
“I use a mix of visual, auditory, and hands-on activities to cater to different learning styles. For struggling readers, I incorporate audiobooks and guided reading exercises. For writing, I focus on scaffolding—breaking down essays into manageable steps with clear rubrics and peer collaboration. I also provide extra support through one-on-one tutoring and feedback sessions.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They want to see if you can make classic and contemporary literature engaging and relevant to students’ lives.
Example Answer:
“I connect literature to students’ experiences by linking themes to modern issues. For example, when teaching ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ I discuss themes of peer pressure and family conflict, comparing them to social media influences today. I also encourage creative projects, like rewriting scenes in modern language or making digital storytelling videos.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They’re assessing your classroom management strategies and ability to keep students engaged.
Example Answer:
“I focus on building strong relationships with students and creating an interactive classroom environment. If a student is disengaged, I try to understand the root cause—whether it’s difficulty with the material or external challenges. I use positive reinforcement and interactive discussions to encourage participation. If behavior becomes disruptive, I address it privately and reinforce classroom expectations while maintaining a supportive tone.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They want to see if you can adapt lessons for students of different skill levels, learning styles, and backgrounds.
Example Answer:
“I use flexible grouping, choice-based assignments, and tiered activities to ensure all students are challenged appropriately. For example, in a poetry unit, advanced students might analyze complex metaphors, while struggling students might focus on identifying basic poetic devices before progressing to deeper analysis. Technology tools like Google Classroom also help me provide personalized resources for students who need extra support.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They’re looking for a balanced approach to assessment, beyond just tests and essays.
Example Answer:
“I use a mix of formative and summative assessments. Formative assessments include class discussions, reading journals, and quizzes to check for understanding. Summative assessments involve essays, presentations, and creative projects. I also incorporate self-reflection activities, where students evaluate their writing growth throughout the semester.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They want to see if you are comfortable using technology to enhance learning.
Example Answer:
“I integrate digital tools like Google Docs for collaborative writing, Flipgrid for student video reflections, and Kahoot for interactive quizzes. I also use online discussion boards to extend class discussions beyond the classroom, encouraging deeper engagement with literature.”
Describe a time when you had to handle a conflict with a student or parent.
They’re assessing your conflict resolution skills and ability to maintain professionalism.
Example Answer:
“A parent once expressed concern over their child’s grade on an essay. I listened to their concerns, explained the grading criteria, and offered the student a chance to revise their work with detailed feedback. This approach reassured the parent and motivated the student to improve their writing skills.”
What the interviewer wants to know:
They want to see if you understand the importance of holistic student support beyond academics.
Example Answer:
“I incorporate social-emotional learning by fostering a classroom environment where students feel comfortable expressing their ideas. I also integrate reflective writing activities and discussions about empathy in literature. Additionally, I stay attentive to students’ well-being and collaborate with counselors when needed.”
To excel in your interview, practice explaining your teaching philosophy, provide real examples of your classroom experience, and research the school’s curriculum. Demonstrating your enthusiasm and innovative approach will make a lasting impression!