MightyRecruiterForeign language teachers are responsible for teaching students a new language. This can be any language other than English, including American Sign Language. Depending on the exact institution, the teacher may only be responsible for leading classroom activities. However, if the teacher is at a postsecondary institution, research may also be entailed.
Your foreign language teacher job description should stress the importance of being an expert in the grammar, composition and pronunciation of the language in question. Knowledge of the history of the culture where the language comes from is also beneficial.
Communication and interpersonal skills will be advantageous regardless of the language being taught. If you are ever uncertain of how to proceed with your own foreign language teacher job description, then you should read the one provided below for ideas.
Foreign Language Teacher Job Summary
Does your passion involve molding the minds of the next generation to give them the tools to succeed? Are you a natural problem solver who loves engaging with other minds about a new culture? We are currently seeking a full-time foreign language teacher who can effectively teach high school students Spanish. This is an excellent opportunity for a person with the proper credentials who is comfortable leading large classrooms and meeting with students one-on-one. You will be responsible for creating a safe environment for students so they feel relaxed getting out of their comfort zones. If you feel you’re a solid candidate, apply for this position today.
Job Responsibilities
- Prepare lectures to deliver to high school students about basic principles of the Spanish language as well as information related to Spanish culture
- Develop course materials for students to complete in the classroom and in their free time, which includes handouts, essays and additional homework assignments
- Evaluate students’ performances, including grading homework assignments and making note of how well students participate in discussions
- Establish consistent office hours at least twice a week so students can meet with you outside standard school hours
- Participate in schoolwide activities, such as workshops and special events to recruit new students for the upcoming school year
- Act as an advisor for student clubs, which can entail the Spanish club, but could also extend to other organizations as you see fit
- Speak with students’ parents to inform them of their child’s progress in the classroom
- Collaborate with other teachers to develop school-wide policies and create an overall better learning environment
Job Skills & Qualifications
Reqiured:
- Bachelor’s degree in a foreign language
- Certification to teach in the state
- Ability to lead a classroom
- Ability to make each student feel safe
Preferred:
- Prior experience teaching in a classroom
Foreign Language Teacher Job Responsibilities
When composing a foreign language teacher job description, you want to assemble a list of job responsibilities that attracts the right talent for the position. The list is the most significant portion of the job description, and jobseekers review it briefly as they look for positions they are interested in. In order to find the best candidate, present core functions that are enriching and challenging, yet manageable.
The job responsibilities section of the foreign language teacher job description gives jobseekers an idea of what to expect on a daily basis and illustrates the facets of the position. To clarify expectations, create a bullet list of 6-8 points, each describing a unique task. Begin each item with an engaging action verb that captures the reader’s attention, and avoid listing too many responsibilities, as this can deter applicants.
To get a better grasp on what to include in your job description, take a look at these examples of foreign language teacher job responsibilities:
- Prepare and evaluate course material, student work, curricula and assessments
- Devise and present lecture material
- Demonstrate high proficiency in writing, speaking and reading Spanish
- Facilitate classroom discussion in Spanish
- Generate student-centered activities for developing communicative competence
- Extend office hours to students for additional resources
- Conduct independent research
- Evaluate student progress
Foreign Language Teacher Job Specifications
Your foreign language teacher job description needs to include core specifications that restrict the applicant pool to only the most qualified candidates. Eliminating underqualified or overqualified jobseekers from consideration streamlines the hiring process and reduces the number of resumes received. To accomplish this effectively, the job qualifications and skills section should list the most important competencies the position requires, so you provide a clear illustration of your expectations.
Before posting your foreign language teacher job description, you need to differentiate between preferred and required skills. Your final list should include items from both categories, but with an emphasis on the latter. For instance, you may prefer the candidate to hold a doctoral degree, but you require bilingual speaking abilities. Be sure to indicate on your job description whether a skill is essential or desirable.
Finally, be succinct in your list. Like the job responsibilities section, the job qualifications and skills section should contain no more than 6-8 concise bullet points and should be readable and direct. Use the following foreign language teacher job specifications as a guide to compiling your own list:
- Master’s degree in Spanish literature required; PhD preferred
- 2-3 attributed journals, articles or books
- 5 years’ experience in postsecondary education
- Fluency in Spanish and English required
- Effective communication abilities and public speaking skills
