Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Secondary Math Teachers – 2025

Preparing for a secondary math teaching job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your teaching abilities, knowledge of the subject, and experience working with students. Whether you’re new to teaching or have years of experience, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Tell us about your experience teaching secondary math.
  A: I have been teaching secondary math for 6 years now. I have experience with a variety of math curriculums and teaching methods, including blended learning and project-based learning.
• 2. What do you think is the most important aspect of being a secondary math teacher?
  A: In my opinion, the most important aspect of being a secondary math teacher is building strong relationships with your students. This creates a positive classroom environment and helps students feel comfortable asking for help and participating in class discussions.
• 3. How do you incorporate technology into your math lessons?
  A: I believe that technology is an essential tool for engaging students in math. I use interactive online activities, educational apps, and online tutorials to enhance my lessons and provide individualized instruction to my students.
• 4. How do you differentiate instruction for students with different learning styles?
  A: I differentiate instruction by using a variety of teaching methods, such as guided practice, independent practice, group work, and hands-on activities. I also provide supplemental materials, such as visual aids and manipulatives, to support different learning styles.
• 5. Tell us about a time when you had to manage a challenging student in your math class.
  A: In my last school, I had a student who struggled with math and had behavioral issues. I made an effort to build a positive relationship with the student and provided one-on-one support during class and after school. As a result, the student’s behavior improved, and their math grades also significantly improved.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What math curriculum have you used in the past?
  A: I have experience using a variety of math curriculums, including Singapore Math, Eureka Math, and Connected Mathematics. I am also familiar with the Common Core State Standards and how to align my lessons with them.
• 7. How do you handle a student who is struggling to understand a math concept?
  A: I use a variety of strategies, such as providing extra practice problems, using visual aids, and breaking down the concept into smaller, more manageable parts. I also encourage students to ask questions and seek help when needed.
• 8. How do you assess students’ understanding of math concepts?
  A: I use a variety of assessment methods, including quizzes, tests, projects, and presentations. I also use formative assessments, such as exit tickets and class discussions, to gauge students’ understanding in real-time.
• 9. How do you ensure that all students are engaged in your math lessons?
  A: I use a variety of teaching strategies and materials to keep students engaged, such as incorporating real-world examples and providing opportunities for group work and hands-on activities. I also make an effort to personalize lessons to students’ interests and abilities.
• 10. How do you incorporate problem-solving skills into your math lessons?
  A: I believe that problem-solving is a crucial aspect of math. I incorporate it into my lessons by providing open-ended problems, real-world scenarios, and challenging puzzles. I also encourage students to explain their thought processes and work collaboratively to find solutions.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 11. What motivates you to become a secondary math teacher?
  A: I have always loved math and enjoy sharing my passion for the subject with others. I find it rewarding to see students develop their math skills and become confident problem-solvers.
• 12. How do you handle a disagreement with a colleague or supervisor?
  A: I believe in open communication and addressing any issues or concerns directly and professionally. I would try to understand the other person’s perspective and work towards finding a solution that benefits both parties.
• 13. How do you ensure that all students, regardless of their background, feel included and valued in your classroom?
  A: I make an effort to create a culturally responsive classroom by incorporating diverse perspectives and experiences into my lessons. I also address any instances of bias or discrimination and promote a safe and accepting learning environment for all students.
• 14. How do you stay updated on the latest teaching methods and technology in the education industry?
  A: I am a lifelong learner and am constantly seeking out professional development opportunities, attending conferences and workshops, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and resources in the education field.
• 15. What is your philosophy on homework?
  A: I believe that homework should reinforce and extend what students have learned in class and should not be excessive or overwhelming. I also take into account students’ extracurricular commitments and try to give them a realistic workload.

Behavioral Questions

• 16. Tell us about a time when you had to adapt your teaching approach to meet the needs of a specific student.
  A: In my previous school, I had a student who was a visual learner and struggled with traditional textbook and lecture-based teaching. I adapted my lessons by providing more visual aids and hands-on activities, and the student’s understanding and engagement improved.
• 17. Can you give an example of a lesson that you have taught and how it went?
  A: Last semester, I taught a lesson on solving equations by graphing. I used a real-world scenario and had students work in groups to solve the problem. The class was very engaged, and many students were able to apply the concept to other types of problems later on.
• 18. How have you successfully differentiated instruction for students with special needs?
  A: In my last school, I had a student with a learning disability in my math class. I provided supplemental materials and individualized instruction, and the student was able to make significant progress and pass the class with a B.
• 19. How do you establish rapport with your students?
  A: I believe in being approachable and showing genuine interest in my students’ lives and interests. I also make an effort to learn their names and make personal connections with each student.
• 20. How do you handle a student who is struggling in your class and seems unmotivated?
  A: I would talk to the student to understand the underlying issues and provide support and encouragement. I would also involve the student’s parents and potentially seek additional resources, such as tutoring or counseling, to help the student overcome their challenges.