Teachers design their classroom presentations to meet student needs and abilities. They also may work with students individually. Teachers assign lessons, give tests, hear oral presentations, and maintain classroom discipline. Teachers observe and evaluate a student's performance and potential. Teachers increasingly are using new assessment methods, such as examining a portfolio of a student's artwork or writing to measure student achievement.
Teachers assess the portfolio at the end of a learning period to judge a student's overall progress.
They may then provide additional assistance in areas where a student may need help. In addition to classroom activities, teachers plan and evaluate lessons, sometimes in collaboration with teachers of related subjects. They also prepare tests, grade papers, prepare report cards, oversee study halls and homerooms, supervise extracurricular activities, and meet with parents and school staff to discuss a student's academic progress or personal problems. Secondary school teachers may assist a student in choosing courses, colleges, and careers. Special education teachers may help students with their transition into special vocational training programs, colleges, or a job.