Arizona Teaching Fellows Interview Event Tips

 

There are three more interview events left for the 2012 cohort for Arizona Teaching Fellows. As the lead interviewer for Arizona Teaching Fellows, I thought it would be helpful to share some Interview Event tips on our blog. Have questions?  Feel free to post a comment or email info@arizonateachingfellows.org.

 

 

Best wishes,

 

Carmen Orozco

Recruitment and Selection Associate  

Teaching Sample

 

Pointers: First, relax. Read over the section in your Interview Event Guide. If that doesn't give you any ideas, think about what you're interested in, or passionate about. What can you make interesting to a group of 10-12 people? Do you like comic books? Teach your "students" how to make an illustrated timeline of a historical event. Are you interested in the environment? Teach the water cycle.

 

Keep in mind:

1. You do not have to teach a lesson from the subject area you have been assigned if you enter the Teaching Fellows program. Maybe you want to ultimately teach math as an AZTF Fellow, but for your interview you know you can teach homonyms in 5 minutes.
2. Your fellow interviewees will be supporting you - you're all going through the same experience!
3. Make it fun. If you're enjoying what you're teaching, chances are your "students" will as well.  But, make sure it's not all fun and games.  We want to see candidates demonstrate they can actually teach a concept.
4. Bring any and all materials you will need for your lesson (handouts, candy, posters, etc.).
5. Practice! In the mirror, for friends, family, etc.

 

Writing Sample

 

Pointers: The prompt will be based on a true-to-life teaching scenario.  Since it's based on a real scenario, it's best not to start with "this would never happen to me, but..."  

 

Keep in mind:

1. Spelling and grammar do count, but the content of your answer carries more weight.
2. You will have 20 minutes for this section. Do take the time to order your thoughts before you start, but don't waste half your time coming up with an involved outline. Only your final product will be reviewed.

Discussion Group

 

Pointers: The prompt will be based on a very realistic teaching scenario.  The prompt will be read aloud while you also have it in front of you. Use this time to truly think about what points you want to make.

 

Keep in mind:

1. Participate, participate, participate.
2. You will have 18 minutes for this section.
3. The selectors (interviewers) will not participate in the discussion group. You and your fellow interviewees are responsible for the outcome of the conversation.

Personal Interview

 

Pointers: This is your chance to dig into the day as a whole, be able to share anything else you want to add to your writing sample or discussion group, demonstrate your passion for teaching and education, talk about your past experiences, and really make a lasting impression on your selector (interviewer). Use it!

 

Keep in mind:

1. Your selector will be taking a lot of notes - don't let it discourage you if they are not making a lot of eye contact!
2. You have 25 minutes. Make the most of it!
3. Your selector is a current teacher, school staff member, or administrator. Think of what questions you want to ask them about teaching in Arizona.