esl student interview questions

General questions
  • Tell me about yourself.
  • What interests you about our school?
  • What qualities do you look for in a teaching environment?
  • How do you stay motivated throughout the day?
  • How do you motivate your students?
  • What do you like most about teaching?
  • What do you feel are the most challenging aspects of teaching?

ESL Student Interviews: Language Proficiency Levels

Example: “I think students should have at least one opportunity per day to practice speaking English. I usually give them a few minutes of free time during the day where they can talk to each other or me about anything they’d like. This helps them get used to speaking and listening to English while still practicing their regular lessons.”

In this guide, you will find some of the most common ESL teacher interview questions and answers. This will help you prepare for your interview and give you a chance to think about what you want to say.

Example: “One of the most challenging things about teaching ESL is that students often have different learning styles. For example, some students learn best by listening while others learn best through reading or writing. I find it helpful to assess my students’ learning styles at the beginning of each school year so I can create lessons that cater to their individual needs. This helps me ensure all of my students are getting the education they deserve.”

Example: “I am currently working toward my certification in English as a second language. I started the process two years ago when I enrolled in an online course that prepares teachers to teach ESL. After completing the coursework, I had to pass a series of exams to receive my certificate. I plan to finish the certification process by the end of this year.”

Example: “I have a few strategies I use to make sure every student is challenged in my classroom. First, I assess each student’s English proficiency level at the beginning of the year so that I know which students need more support and which ones may be ready for more advanced material. Then, I create lesson plans with objectives and activities that address multiple proficiency levels. For example, if I’m teaching a new vocabulary word, I’ll provide several ways to learn it, such as through repetition, flashcards and games.”

Interviewing for an ESL Teaching Position

Because of the growing diversity of student populations across the nation, English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers are in high demand. When interviewing for ESL teaching positions, it is important to remember to answer each question honestly, and in a confident and positive manner. Reflect upon your experience and education as often as possible, and take your time thinking through your responses. Some questions commonly asked during ESL teacher interviews are listed below:

  • In addition to English, what foreign languages are you fluent in?
  • What are your classroom management techniques for handling groups of students that speak different languages?
  • Have you developed ESL lesson plans before and if so, what criteria do you use?
  • What specific educational and professional training have you acquired for teaching ESL?
  • What qualities are important for an ESL teacher to have?
  • What led you to become an ESL teacher?
  • Do you have any previous ESL teaching experience?
  • Are you capable of integrating technology into your ESL instruction?
  • Are you familiar with the ESL student assessments required in the district?
  • Do you have experience modifying tests for ESL students?
  • How do you ensure successful collaboration between you as an ESL teacher and other instructors working with the same students?
  • What do you do to dissipate misunderstandings that might occur due to cultural differences?
  • What challenges have you faced as an ESL teacher and how did you overcome them?
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    In addition to practicing your responses to the questions above, you might also want to jot down some questions for your interviewer. Some relevant topics you can discuss include:

  • What are the ESL student demographics at this school?
  • Do ESL teachers at this school pull students out of class for individual and group work or work with them in their regular classroom?
  • On average, how many students are assigned to each ESL teacher?
  • Is there a standardized curriculum the ESL teachers are expected to follow?
  • Is there a teaching schedule for this position?
  • Is this position assigned to one school or would the person accepting it be involved in several different schools?
  • What professional development opportunities are offered within the district?
  • Once you accept an ESL teaching position, you can refer to the following resources to help establish a curriculum and further develop your teaching strategies. Lessons are self-paced and taught by expert instructors.

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  • Go to Online Credential Options for Teachers
  • Go to Common Core Standards by State
  • Go to Classroom Management Resources
  • Go to Curriculum Resources for Teachers
  • Go to Language Arts & Social Studies Educational Resources
  • Go to Math & Science Educational Resources
  • Go to Sample Rubrics for Teachers
  • Go to Lesson Plans for Teachers
  • Go to Praxis Test by State
  • FAQ

    What questions should I ask ESL students?

    A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom.
    • Do you have any pets?
    • What was the last book you read?
    • Do you like to cook?
    • What’s your favorite food?
    • Are you good at cooking/swimming/etc?
    • Are you married or single?
    • Do you have brothers and sisters? Are they older or younger than you?
    • Do you like baseball?

    What are the 10 most common interview questions and answers for student?

    Several general questions include:
    • Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
    • What do you know about our company?
    • What interests you about this job?
    • What are your strengths?
    • What do you consider your weaknesses?
    • Why do you want to work here?
    • Can you describe your ideal work environment?

    How do I pass an ESL interview?

    So, here’s the quick guide on how to prepare for your ESL interview.
    1. Review the job description carefully. …
    2. Research about the school or company. …
    3. Learn about the country you’re aiming for. …
    4. Consider the age range that you will teach. …
    5. Prepare the right outfit, requirement, and equipment for the interview. …
    6. Tell me about yourself.

    What are the 10 most common interview questions and answers for teachers?

    Bonus teacher interview questions
    • Why are you interested in teaching at this school?
    • What is your greatest professional accomplishment?
    • How do you use technology in the classroom?
    • What would you do if a student is in danger of failing your class?
    • What adjectives would you use to describe your presence in the classroom?

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