High school teachers usually specialize in one subject area, such as math, science, or history.

Duties

High school teachers typically do the following:

1. Plan lessons in the subjects they teach, such as biology or history

2. Assess students to evaluate their abilities, strengths, and weaknesses

3. Teach students as an entire class or in small groups

4. Grade students' assignments to monitor progress

5. Communicate with parents about students' progress

6. Work with individual students to challenge them, to improve their abilities, and to work on their weaknesses

7. Prepare students for standardized tests required by the state

8. Develop and enforce classroom rules

9. Supervise students outside of the classroom

Important Qualities

Communication skills. Teachers must collaborate with other teachers and special education teachers. In addition, teachers need to discuss students' needs with parents and administrators.

Patience. Working with students of different abilities and backgrounds can be difficult. High school teachers must be patient when students struggle with material.

Resourcefulness. High school teachers need to explain difficult concepts in terms students can understand. In addition, they must be able to engage students in learning and adapt lessons to each student's needs.