Becoming a Language Arts Teacher and the Evolution of Reading Lists

Becoming a Language Arts Teacher requires a few fundamental steps, including obtaining a bachelor's degree and understanding the specific requirements in your state. After achieving a degree in subjects like English or Education, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the teaching certificate requirements in your state. Many states require student teaching hours and a state-specific teaching test. For more information, you can check your state’s educational board website or search for your state and 'teaching certificate requirements' online.

The Evolution of Reading Lists in Language Arts

The landscape of classic literature and reading lists in Language Arts has undergone significant changes over the years. Factors such as political correctness have influenced the selection of books. A renowned reading list compiled by Mortimer Adler includes a diverse range of classic European texts, which served as a comprehensive guide for over a generation of students.

Today, other groups have developed more expansive lists that broadened the scope. For example, the '100 Books Everyone Should Read' list is a more extensive compilation that encourages readers to explore a wider range of works. As an English teacher, my experiences have varied significantly. I often teach books that may not be my personal favorites, like Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol,' where I occasionally find the works of Dickens pedantic and boring. However, certain novels are integral to the high school English curriculum and it's up to the individual teacher to teach these with passion.

Influential Educational Resources

For educators and students alike, a few books stand out as influential in the field of education. Here are some highly recommended books:

'Why Johnny Can’t Read' 'The Myth of the Lazy Child' 'The Myth of Homework' 'The Peaceable Classroom'

Each of these books offers valuable insights and solutions regarding reading and teaching, providing a wealth of information and strategies for both teachers and students. 'Why Johnny Can’t Read' and 'The Myth of the Lazy Child' delve into the psychological aspects of learning and provide practical solutions. 'The Myth of Homework' challenges traditional views on the necessity and effectiveness of homework, while 'The Peaceable Classroom' focuses on creating a peaceful and effective learning environment.