4/25 Becoming a Teacher

DIALOG>> There is a state exam you have to pass.

A: What do you want to do after graduation?
B: I want to become a teacher.
A: Oh, really? Do you have to pass a test to become one?
B: Yes, there is a state exam you have to pass.
A: Is it difficult to pass?
B: Absolutely. The competition is very fierce.
* state exam: 국가고시

RESPONSE>> Explain how to become a teacher in Korea.

Teaching is a very popular career in Korea.
ex> The most popular career these days is to be a star.

School teachers can get career stability and some time off during vacations.
ex> I suggest you get some time off work.

To become a certified teacher, you have to acquire a certificate in teaching.
* certified teacher: 자격을 갖춘 교사
ex> I'm taking a test to acquire a certificate in teaching.

You must graduate with a degree in education or take a required amount of education courses to get that certificate.
ex> I began work with a degree in communication.

To teach at a public school, you must pass a state exam called the "imyong-go-shi".
* state exam: 국가고시
ex> You have to pass a state exam for a driver's licence.

Some people re-take the exam several times to achieve their goals of becoming a teacher.

Teachers at private schools don't have to take that test.

As for elementary school teachers, there are specialized universities you have to graduate from.
ex> I have a specialized plan for people who have difficulty in learning.


@ She failed to pass the state exam.
그녀는 국가고시에 떨어졌어.

1. These days the most popular career among teenagers is becoming a star in the entertainment business.
2. I haven't acquired a certificate in teaching yet.
3. You have to pass a state exam to become a doctor.
4. There are high schools that specialize in foreign language.