What does a high school English teacher do?

I'm passionate about English and thinking of becoming a teacher in the future. What are the main responsibilities and daily tasks of a high school English teacher? Is there more to it than just teaching literature?

A high school English teacher's role is multifaceted and extends far beyond teaching books or poetry analysis. Here's a quick review of some essential tasks and responsibilities:

1. Developing Lesson Plans: English teachers are responsible for creating engaging, comprehensive lesson plans that cover reading comprehension, writing, grammar, and vocabulary, as well as literature appreciation.

2. Teaching Content: This is a critical aspect of the role. English teachers instruct on various aspects of the English language and literature, from basic skills like grammar and vocabulary to more complex subjects like analyzing literary texts.

3. Classroom Management: Teachers need to maintain discipline and create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for all students. They set classroom rules, manage student behavior, and instill a culture of respect and learning.

4. Grading: English teachers evaluate students' essays, projects, presentations, and exams. They provide constructive feedback on written work to help students improve their writing skills.

5. Keeping Records: Teachers record grades, attendance, and other details about student performance. They can then use these records to create reports and spot patterns in student behavior or performance.

6. Communication: English teachers have a role in communications – keeping parents/guardians informed about student progress, behavior, or any pertinent issues, and also liaising with other stakeholders in the school community like other teachers, administrators, and guidance counselors.

7. Professional Development: English teachers must stay updated with changes in pedagogy, literature, or testing standards. This requires ongoing education and professional growth.

8. Providing Support: They often provide academic assistance during office hours, supervise extracurriculars, and guide students with their college application essays or other important writings.

So, as you see, being a high school English teacher involves flexibility, creativity, and a mix of teaching, administrative, and interpersonal tasks. The job can be demanding and a bit challenging, but it's also rewarding to foster students' love for the English language and to see them grow and succeed in their academic journey.