A practical guide to substituting at different grade levels

Teaching Pre K-8, Oct 1994 by Lovley, Shawn

In her wonderful book, Substitute Teaching: A Handbook for Hassle-Free Subbing, (St. Martin, 1983) Barbara Pronin says life as a substitute teacher is a little like going out on a blind date: "You open the door, hope for the best, and if it doesn't work out - you get a headache."

Having substituted in a number of different grade levels before taking a job as a college professor, I think she's right. But there are lots of things you can do to make your substituting experience as smooth as possible. One of those is to know what different grade levels will require of you. I can't do anything about the headaches, but if you want to be the kind of substitute who really teaches (not just babysits), here are some important thoughts.

No matter what your substituting assignment, remind yourself that children are different at every age. Before you put your name on any school system's list of substitutes, consider one very important question: are younger students easier and more fun to teach because they're unspoiled by the world, or would you rather teach children who are more mature and able to think about things more deeply?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question, but the way you respond to it may tell you a lot about where you want to substitute. Remember, too, that all kids will make you a little crazy. That's a given, so think in terms of what's best for you.

Kindergarten. Children in kindergarten tend to be enthusiastic and energetic. They adapt well to the school situation after the initial battle to get them there, and they have lots of respect for authority figures, be it a regular teacher or a substitute. Young children are usually very open to friendliness and new ideas, too, so don't be afraid to be yourself and to be flexible.

There will be many different learning levels in a kindergarten classroom -- some kids read, while others haven't learned the alphabet yet -- so be prepared.

There are other specific challenges in substituting in kindergarten as well: young children tend to be very sensitive and fearful. Arguments about wrinkling a shirt or scuffing a shoe are common. Sometimes your students will be afraid of the weather, such as thunder and lightning, or a scary image in a book. It's important to be sensitive, patient and imaginative. It also helps to be a good storyteller, play an instrument, and/or sing.

Grades 1 to 3. By this age, children know how to print, but they're still learning to write, read and do simple math. They're also learning basic history, such as the names of the U.S. presidents. Young people in grades 1-3 are becoming more organized; they can be neater than younger children and know where to put things.

You'll still need to be flexible, though. Even if the regular teacher leaves a lesson plan, you might still find time on your hands. Be prepared to tell stories, do art projects, play games or sports with your students, read them stories and have discussions with them. This level can be fun because kids are generally well-behaved and follow the rules.

Grades 4 to 6. Fourth grade is different from fifth or sixth, especially if kids go to a different school for their upper primary years. My father was the principal of a grade 4-6 school, and both of us were repeatedly struck by one important fact: fourth grade isn't primary, but most fourth graders aren't "grown up" like fifth and sixth graders either. Fourth graders sometimes need a lot of attention (and may clown around to get it) but are generally well-behaved because of a respect for authority.

By contrast, fifth and sixth graders are at or near the top of the elementary school ladder. They're also growing more aware of themselves as people, and of their sexuality. Some will respond to this by being very shy, and others will be more aggressive. At this age, they're more concerned than they used to be with impressing others, especially the opposite sex, than with "behaving" for a sub. They may test you and tell you that the regular teacher always lets them go early, etc. Use your judgement, and be firm and decisive.

At this age, they're learning to do research papers and use reference books. They'll want to express themselves and know what you think or feel about issues, so feel free to have open discussions. A good substitute will also find ways to put student emotions and opinions into creative activities.

Grades 7 & 8. I spent a good part of my substituting time in the seventh and eighth grades. This can be a very difficult and challenging time for a lot of kids because many of them are undergoing the biggest change of their lives: from childhood to physical adulthood. As a consequence, many of them are uncertain about who they are, and the wise substitute will be sensitive to that.

Some of them may be in a new environment. If they're in a combined junior and senior high school, they're surrounded by "older" people; a portion of seventh graders have gone from being the oldest in their school to "just a kid" again. That can make it tough in the classroom, so be firm but understanding. And know your subject! Unlike in elementary school, where kids usually stay in one room most of the day, a junior high sub will probably get a new group of kids each period and teach the same (or similar) subject; be prepared to discuss it in depth.