ACT-Houston
Houston 832-200-0552
Dallas 214-267-2222Austin 1-877-286-0024
Alternative Certification for Teachers
English Language Arts (Grades 4-8) Teacher Certification
In order to obtain an alternative teaching certification in English language arts and reading for upper elementary through middle school, a traditional background in literature subjects combined with writing and reading education subjects is generally required. While the age and maturity of the students may not lend itself directly towards the literal topics found with some traditional literature classics, there are still effective ways to provide students with their foundations.
An alternative teaching certification candidate will be expected to complete a diverse literature background encompassing multiple literature topics. Early American literature, British literature and contemporary literature topics will be fundamental subjects along with Shakespeare and poetry. The ability of upper elementary and middle school students to interpret age appropriate material from the classics and align if with applicable topics in their every day life is a critical component of the education process.
In addition to teaching students classic topics, the ability to enhance, develop and improve reading, comprehension and written language skills is necessary, especially for the upper elementary to middle school age group. Students in this range are typically beyond the basics of language arts and are entering the beginning phases of more complex thoughts and concepts. It can be a frustrating process for a student to have ideas that they cannot clearly communicate. Developing the necessary vocabulary, syntax and grammar are all components for upper elementary and middle school students.
Student teaching and/or field work internships will be required of alternative teaching certification candidates. As a language arts and reading educator, it will be critical to gain the skills to apply literary topics and concepts while still assisting students in obtaining the fundamentals and foundations necessary to have effective reading and writing skills. Language arts and reading are also typically subjects tested by district and state standardized testing to ensure students are receiving the necessary skills and teachers are providing the adequate tools for their students’ success. Interpreting the requirements and ensuring compliance will be an expectation of the language arts educator and should be something an alternative teaching candidate makes themselves familiar with.