What does an ELA teacher do?

What is an ELA Teacher?

ELA teachers are English Language Arts teachers, responsible for teaching reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical thinking skills, typically in elementary, middle, or high schools. They play a key role in preparing students for success in academics, careers, and everyday life, by cultivating language proficiency, fostering a love for storytelling, and encouraging creativity, cultural awareness, and lifelong learning.

What does an ELA Teacher do?

Duties and Responsibilities
ELA teachers help students strengthen their reading, writing, and communication skills, which are essential for success in school and beyond. Here are their key duties:

• Lesson Planning: Design and prepare engaging lessons that cover reading comprehension, writing techniques, vocabulary, and grammar, aligned with curriculum standards.
• Instruction: Teach students how to read various texts—from novels and poems to informational articles—and help them improve their writing through essays, narratives, and research projects.
• Skill Development: Focus on building students’ abilities to analyze literature, organize their thoughts clearly in writing, and express themselves effectively in both written and spoken language.
• Assessment: Create and grade assignments, quizzes, and essays to evaluate student progress. Provide constructive feedback to help students improve their work.
• Classroom Management: Create a supportive, respectful learning environment that encourages participation, collaboration, and academic growth.
• Individual Support: Offer additional help to students who need support with reading or writing, and adjust instruction to meet different learning needs and levels.
• Communication: Keep in touch with parents, guardians, and school staff about student progress and classroom activities, and participate in meetings or school events.
• Professional Development: Stay current with teaching strategies, technology tools, and educational trends by attending workshops or pursuing continuing education.

Different Types of ELA Teachers
ELA teachers can be differentiated by grade level, specialization, and educational setting:

• Elementary ELA Teachers teach foundational literacy skills, including phonics, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and basic writing to younger students (K-5).
• Middle School ELA Teachers focus on more advanced reading, writing, and analytical skills, often incorporating literature, essay writing, and grammar instruction.
• High School ELA Teachers teach complex literature, rhetorical analysis, research writing, and critical thinking to prepare students for college and careers.
• ESL (English as a Second Language) Teachers help non-native English speakers develop reading, writing, and speaking skills. They focus on grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural literacy.
• Special Education ELA Teachers work with students who have learning disabilities, adapting curriculum and teaching strategies to meet individual needs and improve literacy and comprehension.
• College or University ELA Professors teach higher-level English courses, including composition, literature, and advanced writing.
• Literature Specialists focus on teaching novels, poetry, drama, and literary analysis. They may specialize in specific genres, periods, or authors.
• Writing and Composition Specialists emphasize creative writing, essays, technical writing, and research. They help students develop clear, persuasive, and structured writing.
• Reading Specialists help struggling readers improve comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary. They work with students who have learning differences like dyslexia.
• Speech and Debate Coaches train students in public speaking, argumentation, and debate strategies. They are often involved in extracurricular competitions.
• Journalism and Media Studies Teachers teach news writing, media literacy, and digital storytelling. They may oversee student newspapers or broadcast programs.
• AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) ELA Teachers teach advanced-level literature and composition courses. They prepare students for AP/IB exams and college-level coursework.

What is the workplace of an ELA Teacher like?

ELA teachers are employed by a variety of institutions, including:

• Public Schools – elementary, middle, and high schools funded by the government
• Private Schools – independent schools that may have specialized curricula or teaching approaches
• Charter Schools – publicly funded but independently operated schools with unique educational models
• Online Schools and Virtual Learning Programs – digital education platforms offering remote teaching positions
• Colleges and Universities – higher education institutions that hire professors or instructors for English and literature courses
• Community Centers or Adult Education Centers – programs that teach literacy, GED preparation, or English as a Second Language (ESL) to adults
• Tutoring Centers and Test Prep Companies – organizations that provide academic support for reading, writing, and standardized tests like the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test), ACT (American College Testing), or GRE (Graduate Records Examinations)
• Non-profits and Literacy Programs – organizations focused on improving literacy and education in underserved communities
• Corporate Training and Business Communication Programs – companies that hire educators to improve employees' writing and communication skills.

The workplace of an ELA teacher depends on the grade level they teach and the institution which employs them. In traditional schools, they teach in classrooms filled with books, whiteboards, and digital tools. They collaborate with colleagues, attend staff meetings, and grade assignments, often balancing lesson planning with student support. Some work in specialized settings like libraries or resource centers, focusing on literacy development.

In colleges and universities, ELA teachers may lecture in large halls or lead small seminars while conducting research and mentoring students. Regardless of location, an ELA teacher’s workplace is interactive, requiring creativity, communication, adaptability, and a passion for language and learning.