Frequently Asked Questions
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How should I begin planning for certification?
Make an appointment to talk to the English Advisor who can help you outline your course of study.
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What is the Block?
The Block is a collection of Curriculum and Instruction courses taken on a public school campus two days a week. The courses integrate theory and practice by allowing you to observe real teaching situations as you study educational theory.
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When should I take the Block?
You should be enrolled in the Block the semester before you student teach.
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Can I take classes at Texas State while I take the Block?
Yes. You should enroll for English 3389 on Tuesday nights.
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Why should I take English 3389 while taking the Block?
English 3389 is a methods course for students who will teach English in grades 7-12. In this course you will study theories and strategies specifically related to teaching English. As you observe public school English classes in the Block, you will see these theories and strategies in practice. For more information on English 3389, go to English 3389: The Discipline of English.
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Can I take English 3389 while I student teach?
Taking English 3389 while you student teach is like taking Drivers’ Education while you take your driving test. You learn strategies in English 3389 to use in the classroom. If you have not taken English 3389 before you student teach, you do not have the strategies you need to be a successful student teacher.
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While I student teach, can I hold another job?
No. Student teaching is an 8 hour, 5 days-a-week job for 14 weeks. You will need evenings to grade papers, write lesson plans, and prepare for the next day. For more information on student teaching, go to “FAQs about Student Teaching.”
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To register for the English TExES what requirements must I meet?
You must have completed your required English courses, and you must pass a practice test and attend a review session. For more information about the TExES and certification, go to “Taking the TExES for English/Language Arts, and Reading Grades 7-12 and Becoming Certified to Teach: Steps to Success.”
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When should I take the practice English TExES?
You will take the practice and review as part of your course work in English 3389.
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When should I take the English TExES review?
You will take the review as part of the course work in English 3389.
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When should I take the English TExES?
You should take the English TExES as soon as you have completed your course work in English and taken the practice test and review.