Log InSign Up

16 High School Math Teacher Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various high school math teacher interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.

High School Math Teacher Resume ExampleUse this template

or download as PDF

Common High School Math Teacher Interview Questions

How did you become interested in math?

Some interviewers ask this question to get a sense of whether the candidate is passionate about their subject area and whether they would be able to inspire that passion in their students. It can also be a way to gauge whether the candidate has a strong understanding of the subject matter and how they became interested in it themselves.

Example: “I have always been interested in math. I remember being in elementary school and my teacher would always give us math problems to solve and I would always try to find the quickest and most efficient way to solve them. I also loved going to the math club and participating in competitions. In high school, I took more challenging math classes and really enjoyed learning about new concepts and solving difficult problems. I also tutored other students in math, which was a great way to help others while also reinforcing my own understanding of the material. After graduating from college, I became a high school math teacher and have been teaching for several years now. I love being able to share my passion for math with my students and help them develop their own love for the subject.”

What are your favorite math topics to teach?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. They could be trying to gauge your level of interest and expertise in different areas of mathematics, or they might be trying to get a sense of which topics you are most passionate about teaching. This question can also give the interviewer some insight into your teaching style and how you approach different topics with your students. Ultimately, it is important for the interviewer to get a sense of your teaching philosophies and methods in order to determine if you would be a good fit for the position.

Example: “I enjoy teaching a variety of math topics, but some of my favorites include geometry, algebra, and trigonometry. I find that these topics are often the most visually appealing and engaging for students. I also enjoy teaching problem-solving and critical thinking skills through math, as these are skills that can be applied to any subject or situation.”

How do you help students who are struggling with math?

This question is important because it allows the interviewer to gauge the potential teacher's ability to develop relationships with students and identify areas where students may need extra help. It also allows the interviewer to see if the potential teacher is familiar with different ways to help students who are struggling in math.

Example: “There are a number of ways to help students who are struggling with math. One way is to provide them with additional resources such as websites, apps, or books that can help them review the material. Another way is to give them extra time to work on assignments or tests. Additionally, you can provide them with one-on-one assistance or small group instruction.”

What are your favorite math games or activities to use in the classroom?

It is important because it helps the interviewer to understand how the High School Math Teacher uses math in the classroom and what they think is important about math. This question also allows the interviewer to see if the High School Math Teacher is creative and has a good understanding of different math games and activities.

Example: “I absolutely love using math games and activities in the classroom! Some of my favorites include using dice games to review basic operations, playing set or card games to work on specific skills like probability or estimation, and using online math games to give students a chance to practice what we've been working on in class. I also love using puzzles and brainteasers as a way to get students thinking critically about math concepts.”

How do you make math more engaging for students?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a high school math teacher. First, the interviewer may be interested in how the teacher makes math more engaging for students because they want to know how the teacher plans and implements lessons. This is important because it shows that the teacher is able to adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of their students. Second, the interviewer may be interested in how the teacher makes math more engaging for students because they want to know how the teacher motivates and encourages their students. This is important because it shows that the teacher is able to create a positive learning environment for their students.

Example: “There are a number of ways to make math more engaging for students. One way is to use hands-on and interactive activities to help students understand concepts. Another way is to use technology, such as online games and simulations, to help students visualize concepts and see how they work in real-world situations. Finally, incorporating real-world applications into lessons can help students see how math is used in their everyday lives.”

What are some of the biggest challenges you face when teaching math?

There can be a number of reasons why an interviewer would ask this question to a high school math teacher. It is important to understand the challenges that teachers face in order to be able to effectively address them. Some of the challenges that high school math teachers face include:

1. Engaging all students in learning: It can be difficult to keep all students engaged in learning, especially if they are struggling with the material.

2. Differentiating instruction: Teachers need to be able to adjust their teaching methods to meet the needs of all students, including those with different learning styles and abilities.

3. Managing time and resources: There is often a lot of content to cover in a math class, and it can be challenging to make sure that all students have the opportunity to learn everything.

4. Assessing student learning: In order to ensure that students are mastering the material, teachers need to be able to effectively assess student learning.

5. Preparing for standardized tests: Many high school math teachers also need to prepare their students for standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT.

Example: “One of the biggest challenges I face when teaching math is getting students to understand that math is more than just memorizing formulas and solving problems. I try to stress the importance of understanding the concepts behind the formulas and why they work. I also try to provide lots of examples and non-traditional problems for students to work on so they can see that math is relevant to their lives. Another challenge is dealing with students who have gaps in their math knowledge due to previous teachers not properly teaching the material or students not paying attention in class. I often have to spend extra time reteaching concepts that should have been learned previously.”

How do you ensure that all students have a chance to succeed in your math class?

There are a number of reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a high school math teacher. First, it is important to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed in class. Second, it is important to identify and address any potential areas of inequality in the classroom. Third, it is important to be able to adapt the teaching methods and materials to meet the needs of all students. Fourth, it is important to be able to assess student progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed.

Example: “There are a number of things that I do in order to ensure that all students have a chance to succeed in my math class. First and foremost, I create a positive and supportive learning environment in which all students feel comfortable taking risks and making mistakes. Secondly, I differentiate my instruction and assessments based on students' individual needs and abilities. And finally, I provide extra support to struggling students through tutoring or other means. By taking these measures, I am confident that all students can succeed in my math class.”

What are some of your favorite tips or tricks for helping students learn math?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a high school math teacher. First, it can give the interviewer some insight into the teaching methods of the math teacher. Second, it can help the interviewer understand the teacher's philosophy on math education. Finally, it can help the interviewer gauge the teacher's level of expertise in math education.

Example: “There are a few different things that I like to do in order to help my students learn math. One of the things that I always stress is the importance of practicing and reviewing. I tell my students that they should be doing some sort of math practice every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. I also like to give them little tips and tricks that they can use to help them remember certain concepts. For example, I might tell them to make up a little song or rhyme to help them remember how to do long division. Another thing that I think is important is to make sure that they are understanding the concepts and not just memorizing steps. I often have them explain how they did a problem or have them teach it to me. And finally, I think it’s important to praise their efforts and successes, no matter how small.”

What are some of the biggest myths about math that you’ve heard?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a high school math teacher. First, it shows that the interviewer is interested in the teacher's thoughts on how math is perceived by students and the general public. Second, it allows the interviewer to gauge the teacher's understanding of common math myths and whether they are able to dispel them. Finally, it gives the teacher an opportunity to share any innovative or creative methods they use to help students understand math concepts.

This question is important because it allows the interviewer to get a better sense of the teacher's views on math education. It also provides an opportunity for the teacher to share any unique insights they have on how to effectively teach math.

Example: “One of the biggest myths about math is that it is difficult and only for people who are “good at math.” This simply isn’t true! Math is a subject that requires practice and perseverance, but it is definitely achievable for anyone who is willing to put in the work.

Another myth about math is that it is boring. While some people may find math to be tedious, there are actually many interesting and exciting aspects to the subject. From exploring new concepts and discovering patterns, to solving complex problems, math can be quite engaging and satisfying.

Finally, another common myth about math is that it isn’t useful in real life. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Math is used in a variety of fields, from medicine and finance to engineering and architecture. It is a powerful tool that can help us make sense of the world around us.”

How do you help students who are math-anxious?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a high school math teacher. First, it shows that the interviewer is interested in the teacher's methods for helping students who are struggling with math anxiety. This is important because it shows that the interviewer is interested in the teacher's ability to help all students, not just those who are already good at math. Second, it shows that the interviewer is interested in the teacher's methods for helping students who are struggling in general. This is important because it shows that the interviewer is interested in the teacher's ability to help all students, not just those who are struggling with math anxiety. Finally, this question allows the interviewer to gauge the teacher's level of experience and expertise in helping students with math anxiety. This is important because it shows that the interviewer is interested in hiring a teacher who is knowledgeable and experienced in helping students with math anxiety.

Example: “There are a number of things that teachers can do to help students who are math-anxious. First, it is important to create a positive and supportive classroom environment. This means making sure that students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes. It also means using positive reinforcement when students do well.

Second, it is important to break down math concepts into small, manageable pieces. This will help reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed that many math-anxious students feel. Third, it is important to provide plenty of opportunities for practice. This will help students build confidence in their abilities.

Finally, it is important to be available to answer questions and provide support outside of class. This can be done through office hours or online resources.”

What are some of your favorite resources for teaching math (books, websites, etc.)?

There are many reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. It could be to get a sense of the applicant's teaching style, to gauge their knowledge of current resources, or to see if they are familiar with new resources that the school might be considering adopting.

It is important for interviewers to ask questions like this because it helps them to get a better sense of the applicant's qualifications and how they would fit into the school's community.

Example: “Some of my favorite resources for teaching math include books such as "Mathematical Mindsets" by Jo Boaler, websites such as Mathigon and Khan Academy, and apps like Geometry Pad. I also enjoy using real-world examples to help students understand mathematical concepts.”

How do you stay up-to-date on new developments in the math world?

As a high school math teacher, it is important to stay up-to-date on new developments in the math world in order to be able to effectively teach the latest information to your students. Additionally, by keeping up with new developments, you can ensure that your students are receiving a well-rounded education and are prepared for whatever they may encounter in the future.

Example: “I stay up-to-date on new developments in the math world by subscribing to mathematical journals and attending conferences. I also keep in touch with colleagues who are working on new projects.”

What are your thoughts on the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics?

The Common Core State Standards for Mathematics are a set of standards for math education in the United States. They were developed in 2009 by a group of educators and mathematicians, and they have been adopted by more than 40 states. The standards are designed to provide a clear and consistent framework for math education, so that students can develop the mathematical skills and knowledge they need to be successful in college and careers. The standards are also meant to encourage mathematical thinking and problem-solving, rather than rote memorization of facts and procedures.

As a high school math teacher, the interviewer is interested in your thoughts on the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics because they will likely impact the way you teach your subject. It is important to know what the standards are and how they can be used to improve math education in the United States.

Example: “The Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM) are a set of standards for mathematics education in the United States. They were first released in 2010 and have been adopted by most states. The standards are designed to ensure that all students have a rigorous and challenging math education that prepares them for college and careers.

I believe that the CCSSM are a step in the right direction for mathematics education in the United States. I think that they provide a clear and concise set of standards that all teachers can use to guide their instruction. I also think that the standards are realistic and achievable, and that they will help to ensure that all students have access to a high-quality math education.”

What advice would you give to new math teachers?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a high school math teacher. First, the interviewer may be interested in the teacher's methods for training new math teachers. Second, the interviewer may want to know the teacher's advice for helping new math teachers become more successful in their careers. Finally, the interviewer may simply be curious about the teacher's thoughts on the subject.

Regardless of the reason why the question is being asked, it is important for the high school math teacher to give thoughtful and detailed advice. This will show that the teacher is experienced and knowledgeable about the teaching profession. It will also give the interviewer a better sense of the teacher's teaching style and methods.

Example: “There are a few pieces of advice that I would give to new math teachers. First, it is important to be patient with your students. They may not understand the material right away, but with time and patience they will catch on. Secondly, do not be afraid to ask for help from your colleagues. Everyone was new at one point, and there is no shame in admitting that you need assistance. Finally, always be willing to adapt your teaching methods to better suit your students' needs. What works for one group of students might not work for another, so it is important to be flexible in your approach.”

What advice would you give to parents of children who are struggling with math?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a high school math teacher. First, the interviewer may be interested in the teacher's methods for helping students who are struggling with math. Second, the interviewer may be interested in the teacher's advice for parents of children who are struggling with math. This is important because it shows that the interviewer is interested in the teacher's ability to help students and families who are struggling with math.

Example: “There are a few things that parents can do to help their children who are struggling with math. First, they should make sure that their child is getting enough practice. This means helping them to do their homework and providing additional opportunities for practice at home. Secondly, they should try to find a tutor or another adult who can help their child to understand the material. Finally, they should encourage their child to keep trying and not give up.”

What are your hopes for the future of mathematics education?

An interviewer might ask "What are your hopes for the future of mathematics education?" to a high school math teacher in order to gauge their level of commitment to their profession and to learn what changes they would like to see in the field of mathematics education. It is important to ask this question because it allows the interviewer to get a sense of the interviewee's priorities and values.

Example: “I hope that mathematics education will continue to evolve and become more accessible to everyone. I believe that there is a lot of potential for mathematics education to grow and improve, and I would like to see it become more widely available to people of all ages and backgrounds.”

Related Interview Questions