An important duty of teacher assistants is to provide a supporting role in organizing lesson plans. Rather than actually choosing the subject matter or preparing the lesson plan, they might type study guides and resource materials. It is common for elementary school teacher assistants to have an active role in presenting the material in class, according to the teacher's guidance. The teacher assistant is expected to be as knowledgeable of the subject matter as the teacher to help with any questions the students may have during discussion.
From reviewing tests and collecting homework, teacher assistants play an integral role in the grading process. Teacher assistants may then be expected to calculate scores and find the average for quarterly and semester scores. Teachers may choose to double check this information and aid them in this process. Assistants are often present in the classroom during tests, responsible for aiding questions with any issues that should arise during the test and being sure there is no cheating involved.
Teacher assistants may also be asked to keep the classroom functioning safely. For example, they may distribute hall passes, monitor students to deter bad behavior and even be involved with taking disciplinary action, if needed. Monitoring students' behavior extends outside of the classroom; they are often asked to supervise during lunch in the cafeteria, during school assemblies and outdoors during recess.
As a teacher assistant, you may take on a supportive role for the teacher. This could include making seating charts, taking attendance and taking care of clerical matters such as filing and organizing. There may be typing or data entry involved, so experience with computers and several basic software programs are expected. Researching for lesson plans and presentations may also be required. You may be asked to clean and organize the classroom for easy function.