Hi Heidi, Wow, big question! Without launching into a lengthy dissertation, my simple response is this: * Teach the topics you know and are passionate about. * Keep expanding your knowledge base through further study and professional development. Especially get involved in the HTA and its networks. * If you don't have the opportunity to select the units of work you teach, get up to speed quickly, focus on skills and appear just as passionate about teaching the stuff that might not be your first choice. * Don't lose sight of the fact that you have become a history teacher because (hopefully) you love history. Greg Keith