Preparing
to Teach Elementary School
The professional elementary teacher must possess expertise in two
broad categories of knowledge:
- Subject Matter: The elementary teacher must be
competent in the subjects taught in the elementary classroom.
Teachers must have a solid knowledge base in Language
Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, Visual and
Performing Arts, Human Development and Physical Education.
- Pedagogy: The elementary teacher must be skilled
in the professional methods of teaching. For example,
the professional elementary teacher must be proficient
in the various strategies for teaching math and reading,
and understand and use appropriate strategies for managing
classroom behavior.
Undergraduates who are planning to teach elementary school should
choose General Education classes and a major that will contribute
to subject matter knowledge. The multiple subject credential program
is designed to prepare students in their knowledge and skills in
the methods of teaching.
Current teaching credential requirements include demonstration
of subject matter knowledge and teaching skills.

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