Tips when substitute teaching for a history teacher.

Were you one of those students who enjoyed history class because your history teacher made the curriculum interesting? Or did a substitute teacher have the opposite impact, causing you to daydream?

Most of us have had both experiences. Now is your chance to make history and inspire students. If you’re nervous about taking on substitute teacher jobs for a history teacher, don’t be. Your substitute teaching training prepared you to lead classrooms in all grade levels and subjects. We put together a few extra tips to help you out.

Arrive prepared with a few ideas for backup activities or lesson plans. 

As a substitute teacher, you’ll usually have a lesson plan left by the regular history teacher to guide you through the day. Following the instructions is crucial. Don’t deviate from the plan. The teacher follows lesson plans that roll up under the district’s history or social studies curriculum.  

However, you may want to have a few extra activities ready—just in case no plan is left, or students finish early. Don’t be afraid to ask a neighbor teacher or administration for assistance or permission to try an alternate activity. Remember, they want you to be successful and keep students engaged and learning.  

Here are a few flexible history-themed options that can be adapted to fit any grade level. Be mindful that students learn in different ways, and some will have an IEP or 504 plan. If you are left instructions about those plans, you must follow them.

Create a timeline. 

Consider the historical period students are learning about and have them create timelines that identify key events. This can be done individually or in groups. Students can add a brief description of each event, and even include pictures. 

This day in history. 

Using today’s date, ask students to research historical events that occurred on the same day decades ago. Students can compile a list or choose a significant event to research, summarize, and report on. 

Readers’ theater. 

Come prepared with a short reading passage (fiction or nonfiction, but history-related) or pick something from the students’ class materials. After reading, students can work together to act out the events that took place in the passage. This can be creative, with students elaborating on the events as if they were there, or they can stick to the script. 

Be mindful that some historical events involve violence or other sensitive topics, so this should avoid inappropriate or harmful reenactments. You should also ask for volunteers, as you don’t want to put any students on the spot or make them feel uncomfortable. 

In the news. 

The news can stimulate student discussion about events that may become history one day. Locating news articles also gives students of all ages the chance to practice their skills in detecting bias. Be sure to steer clear of political conversations. Read our article about Navigating an election year as a substitute teacher. 

Read! 

History class can build reading skills. Bring a few history-related books for students to peruse or take advantage of the classroom library. Many history-related graphic novels bring the past to life. These selections may interest students who don’t typically enjoy reading. 

Brain breaks. 

Sometimes, you need something quick to fill a lull or keep early finishers from getting restless. Crossword puzzles, word searches, and similar games let students take a quick break while keeping their minds active. Even better, there are many free resources online that allow you to search for subject-specific puzzles or create your own history-based sheets. 

Dress for success.  

Substitute teaching jobs require a lot of time on your feet. Dress professionally, but comfortably. This includes your shoes! Most schools have a teacher dress code, follow it. Dressing in layers allows you to focus on your teaching, not the discomfort of being too cold or hot.  

Set expectations and follow-up. 

Check out the history teacher’s classroom rules before you start, especially regarding the use of cell phones. Introduce yourself clearly with confidence and place your name on the board. Keeping students in their regular routines will keep the class moving at an appropriate pace and make the classroom easier to manage.  

Remember, you may not be a social studies or history expert, so don’t pretend to know something that you don’t. Trust the teacher’s notes for guidance on whether students can work together and share answers. 

Many teachers also appreciate it when a substitute teacher leaves a note about any absences or issues, so they can address them with students when they return. They like to hear good reports too! 

Have fun. 

While you’re teaching the lesson, don’t forget to have fun with the class! Bringing your own enthusiasm and positive energy can make a huge difference in how students engage. When you enjoy the experience, your students will too. 

Work with Kelly Education as a substitute teacher. 

Want more substitute teacher tips? From substitute teacher dress codes to what to bring on your first day and how to introduce yourself to the class, Kelly Education shares everything you need to know about substitute teaching. Check out all our advice so you can confidently lead your class. 

Substitute teaching is a flexible and rewarding job. Fill out our short interest form, and one of our recruiters will contact you to answer your questions. We’ll share more information about substitute teacher jobs with one of our school district partners in your area. 

I’m interested