OVERVIEW
What Is a Pre-Algebra Teacher?
Pre-algebra teachers are licensed instructors of pre-algebraic principles and operations. Most pre-algebra teachers work in middle schools, teaching sixth, seventh, or eighth graders. One of the primary objectives of teaching pre-algebra is to introduce new ways of manipulating numbers and variables within equations and solving for inequalities. Typical pre-algebra lessons might consist of one or more of the following concepts:
- Arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division)
- Algebraic expressions
- Order of operations
- Square roots
- Fractions
- Decimals
- Distributive property
- Absolute value
- Linear equations
- Common factors
Pre-algebra teachers are also trained to manage classroom settings, which includes answering student questions and encouraging students to participate. Keeping track of each student’s progress is just as important for pre-algebra teachers as giving lessons.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Pre-Algebra Teacher Do?
The day-to-day duties of a pre-algebra teacher involve time spent alone preparing for instruction and time spent together with learners and colleagues. Besides teaching, common responsibilities of the role include:
- Writing course syllabi and planning course curriculum
- Assigning homework
- Administering quizzes and tests
- Providing extra support for struggling students
- Collaborating with faculty members and school administrators
- Communicating with students’ parents as needed
- Evaluating student learning
- Grading coursework and assessments
- Enforcing classroom policies
- Adapting to various learning styles
- Integrating technology into classroom discussions
To be effective at their jobs, pre-algebra teachers should determine which teaching techniques serve their students the best. Some students may need more time and practice with the material than others. For these individuals, pre-algebra teachers might find ways to make learning more engaging or create more detailed study guides. They may even spend time one-on-one with students that need extra help to practice problems, solve equations, review worksheets, and more.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Pre-Algebra Teacher?
Most professionals looking to become a pre-algebra teacher take about four to five years to complete all the necessary education. Those enrolled in online programs—like the ones offered at WGU—may finish faster.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become a Pre-Algebra Teacher?
While preparing for a career as a pre-algebra teacher, be sure to set appropriate educational and professional goals and then do your best to achieve them. Consider the following steps:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, mathematics education, or a similar subject. An undergraduate degree provides a foundational knowledge of general mathematics and algebraic concepts.
- Earn a relevant master’s degree. While not always required, a master’s degree can confer specialized knowledge of algebraic principles and may increase your earning potential.
- Get certified. Nearly all pre-algebra teachers in the U.S. must be certified in order to teach at a public or charter school. Earning certification requires completing a teacher preparation program, passing an exam, and applying for licensure. Certification requirements for elementary and secondary education vary by state.
- Gain on-the-job experience. Most teachers gain experience via student teaching during or after their degree program. This is a great way to learn how to instruct and manage students while under supervision.
- Seek continuing education. To keep your skills sharp, you might decide to continue your education in mathematics teaching, renewing your certification when needed. Attending professional development workshops, participating in teaching conferences, and enrolling in continuing education courses are some ways to nurture your career growth.
Best Degrees for a Pre-Algebra Teacher
Education
Mathematics Education (Secondary) – B.S.
An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring...
An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers and high school math teachers.
Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.
- Time: 60% of students finish this degree within 40 months.
- Tuition: $3,825 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 42 total courses in this program (43 for Washington residents).
Skills for your résumé included in this program:
- Trigonometry and Precalculus
- Probability and Statistics I and II
- Calculus I, II, and III
- Abstract Algebra
- College Geometry
This online math teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This online math teaching degree program helps students become eligible for math teaching certification.
Education
Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.
An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for...
An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school or high school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.
Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on the teaching certification in your state.
- Time: 64% of students finish this high school math teaching degree within 25 months.
- Tuition: $4,125 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 21 total courses in this program (22 for Washington residents).
Skills for your résumé included in this program:
- Algebra for Secondary Teaching
- Geometry for Secondary Teaching
- Statistics and Probability for Secondary Teaching
- Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
- Educational Psychology
This online teaching degree in secondary math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This program differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) program in that it includes courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. Graduates from this secondary math degree program will be eligible for a teaching license in any of the 50 states.
How Much Does a Pre-Algebra Teacher Make?
$65,220
Pre-algebra teacher earnings typically depend on the grade level they are teaching, their prior work experience, location, and other factors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for high school math teachers in May 2023 was $65,220. The BLS states that middle school math teachers earned an average annual salary of $64,290, while elementary school math teachers earned $63,680 during the same period. The lowest 10% of teachers in each category earned less than around $47,000, while the highest 10% earned more than $104,000.
Pre-algebra teachers can expect a similar income.
What Is the Projected Job Growth?
1%
According to the BLS, the employment of high school, middle school, and elementary school math teachers is projected to decline by 1% from 2023 to 2033. Despite this projection, math teachers can still expect between 41,400 and 106,500 job openings each year over the decade, depending on the grade level taught. This growth forecast is similar for pre-algebra teachers.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Pre-Algebra Teacher Need?
To succeed as a pre-algebra teacher, you’ll need a skill set that balances technical math skills with several soft skills, like the following:
- Firm understanding of basic pre-algebra, including algebra equations, real numbers, mixed numbers, greatest common factors, ratios, variables, and more.
- Solid understanding of other branches of math, including geometry and math analysis.
- Tech savvy to use technology as an aid in teaching lessons.
- Classroom management to effectively ask and answer questions and keep students on task.
- Curriculum development skills to prepare lesson plans and classroom expectations.
- Strong communication to ensure that learners clearly understand class material and feel heard.
- Assessment and evaluation skills to accurately and fairly measure student learning.
- Organization to complete work on time and prioritize the most essential tasks.
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