A middle school teacher handles classes of students in the sixth to the eighth grades. The first responsibility is to build knowledge and provide skills to tackle middle school subjects by introducing and teaching higher learning concepts. The teacher develops lesson plans based on an approved curriculum, sets up necessary materials and equipment as the curriculum requires, teaches the lessons, encourages student participation in group activities and discussion, and motivates students to learn new concepts and skills. She also enhances students' academic strengths and improves weaknesses, introduces and encourages the use of computers and software relevant to subjects being taught, and exposes students to a variety of career options for consideration in later stages of their lives.
Middle school teachers have to fulfill certain administrative duties. They make and submit lesson plans, record grades, administer and grade tests, attend faculty meetings and parent-teacher conferences, maintain accurate records of student performance, request supplies and necessary equipment, review and analyze student data, and maintain an ideal learning environment.
The middle school teacher does more than just his academic or administrative duties. He is responsible for the personal and psychosocial development of students. It is his duty to motivate students to explore new ideas and encourage self-expression and individuality. Middle school teachers also have to encourage and reward good behavior and discourage inappropriate behavior. Another duty of the teacher is to become a role model and mentor students on how to act as responsible and contributing members of society.
Knowledge is always expanding and getting updated, and the middle school teacher should strive to update whatever knowledge or skill sets she has. The best way for a middle school teacher to do this is through postgraduate studies in her field of specialization. Other options for updating a middle school teacher's knowledge and skills is through attending seminars on her specialty, child behavior, new educational systems and other pertinent courses.