Create Your Cover Letter
Prepare
Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, review
- Chapter 2 of the Life After College: Presenting Yourself to the Workforce textbook
- Resumes & Cover LettersLinks to an external site.
- How and Why to Write a Great Cover LetterLinks to an external site.
- Five Tips to Ace Your Next Cover LetterLinks to an external site.
- Writing a Recent Graduate Cover LetterLinks to an external site.
- Example Resume FormatsDownload Example Resume Formats
Write
Select one of the following positions for which you will create a cover letter: They are attached below
- Early Childcare WorkerDownload Early Childcare Worker
- Early Childcare AdministratorDownload Early Childcare Administrator
- Elementary Level Teacher’s AideDownload Elementary Level Teacher’s Aide
- Secondary Level Teacher’s AideDownload Secondary Level Teacher’s Aide
- Instructional Design AssociateDownload Instructional Design Associate
Utilizing the cover letter template and format outlined in your Life After College: Presenting Yourself to the Workforce textbook, craft a cover letter tailored to the position you selected. Post your cover letter in the course discussion forum, and in that post, answer the following questions:
- What challenges did you face while crafting your cover letter, and how did you overcome them?
- How did researching the position and reflecting on your experiences help you write your cover letter?
- How do you think your cover letter will help you stand out as a candidate for the selected position?.
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Example Resume Formats
Chronological Resume Example:
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] | [Your Email] | [LinkedIn Profile]
Professional Summary: Detail-oriented educator with 5 years of experience in K-12 settings, specializing in literacy and special education. Adept at designing inclusive lesson plans, managing classroom dynamics, and leveraging data to improve student performance.
Professional Experience: Teacher, XYZ Elementary School – Chicago, IL August 2020 – Present
• Developed and implemented literacy programs, increasing reading comprehension by 20%.
• Created individualized education plans (IEPs) for special needs students, ensuring compliance with state and federal guidelines.
Education: Master of Education, Special Education ABC University, 2019
Functional Resume Example:
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] | [Your Email] | [LinkedIn Profile]
Skills Summary:
• Classroom Management: Expertise in fostering a positive, engaging learning environment for diverse groups of students.
• Curriculum Development: Designed custom curricula that improved student engagement by integrating technology and active learning strategies.
Professional Experience: Teaching Experience:
• Led literacy workshops for struggling readers, increasing literacy rates by 15%. • Tutored at-risk students in small group settings, focusing on tailored intervention plans.
Education: Master of Education, Special Education ABC University, 2019
Combination Resume Example:
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] | [Your Email] | [LinkedIn Profile]
Professional Summary: Experienced educator with a background in both classroom teaching and curriculum design. Skilled at integrating technology into lesson plans and building strong student-teacher relationships.
Professional Experience: Teacher, XYZ Middle School – New York, NY September 2019 – Present
• Implemented project-based learning activities that improved student participation by 30%.
• Provided individualized instruction for English Language Learners (ELL).
Skills:
• Technology Integration: Proficient in Google Classroom, Edmodo, and other educational platforms.
• Student Engagement: Proven ability to create engaging lesson plans that cater to different learning styles.
Education: Bachelor of Arts in English XYZ University, 2018
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Sample Cover Letter
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] | [Your Email] | [Date]
Hiring Manager [Company Name] [Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company]. With [X years] of experience in [specific field], I have developed a strong foundation in [key skills], making me an ideal candidate for this role. In my most recent position as [Current/Previous Role], I [describe a key accomplishment that aligns with the job requirements]. My ability to [mention a unique skill or value] has consistently set me apart from my peers, and I am confident that my expertise in [specific skill] will make a significant contribution to your team.
I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and experiences align with the goals of [Company]. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
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EDU499 Creating your Resume and Cover Letters
TRANSCRIPT FOR INTERACTIVE LEARNING MODULE
Screen 1: Objective
This interactive tool helps students explore various formats of résumés and cover letters while
learning how to enhance them to stand out to potential employers. The tool helps students
consider ways to accentuate their value proposition, highlight distinctive qualities and
experiences, and integrate their resume and cover letter.
Screen 2: Resume, Cover Letter and More
Learn more about resume, cover letter and tips on both by navigating through the buttons.
[The screen displays the 4 buttons resume, cover letter, structure and tips- select each button
for more information]
Screen 3: Conversation on Resume
Sara is telling Mark how to make a good resume.
[The screen displays 2 slides with two characters Mark and Sara]
Select the arrow buttons to explore more. Once finished, select the next button.
Slide 1:
Sara: You know, Mark, your resume is your first impression, so it’s important to get it right.
There are three main formats—chronological, functional, and a combination of these two.
Choose the one that best highlights your experience.
Mark: That makes sense, Sara. I think I’ve been using the wrong format.
Slide 2:
Sara: Also, focus on using action verbs and quantifying your achievements. Tailor each resume
to the job you’re applying for to really stand out.
Mark: I see! So, I should adjust my resume for each role and highlight specific skills and
results?
Screen 4: Crafting your Value Proposition in a Resume
Incorporate your personal story and value proposition into the resume format.
[The screen displays 5 tabs- select each tab for more information]
Select each tab to learn more.
Value Proposition:
• Pondering your value proposition o Brainstorm how to write your accomplishments, skills, and experiences as bullet
points that showcase results and impact.
• Use action-oriented language. o Use words such as “managed,” “developed,” “coordinated,” “led,” “implemented,”
“facilitated,” “achieved,” “increased,” and “improved.”
Measurable Achievements:
• Weak: Taught reading to elementary students.
• Strong: Developed and implemented a reading program that improved student literacy rates by 20% in one year.
Update Your Resume:
Write or update your resume, focusing on two sections:
• Experience—List of past jobs with bullet points highlighting responsibilities and accomplishments. Include quantifiable data (e.g., "Improved student engagement by 15%").
• Summary—A 2–3-sentence summary of your professional experiences and key skills using action verbs and quantifiable results.
Peer Review:
Take advantage of peer review to improve your résumé in the following ways
• Share with a peer for feedback.
• Give and receive constructive feedback on the clarity and effectiveness of the résumé.
Ask Peers:
Ask your peers these questions:
• Does the professional summary clearly communicate strengths and value proposition?
• Are the experiences listed action-oriented and quantifiable?
• Does the resume reflect a clear narrative that aligns with the student’s career goals?
[The screen displays screen 2 again. Select the Cover letter button to move ahead]
Screen 5: Writing a Compelling Cover Letter
Cover letters complement your resume and hone a cohesive, compelling narrative that points to
the position you are applying for.
[The screen displays 5 slides]
Select the arrow buttons to explore more. Once finished, select the Next button.
Slide 1: Cover Letter Contents
1. Research the Company: Reference values, culture, or recent achievements.
2. Personal Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name when possible. 3. Expand on Key Experiences: Provide deeper insights into relevant resume highlights.
Slide 2: Cover Letter Contents
4. Showcase Skills: Explain how your skills led to tangible results. 5. Match Skills to Role: Highlight experiences that fit the job requirements. 6. Personalize Value: Show how your unique attributes benefit the organization. 7. Express Enthusiasm: Demonstrate passion for the role and company.
Slide 3: Personalized Cover Letter
Draft a personalized cover letter for a job you’re interested in (Sample Cover Letter)
• Focus on how your story connects with the company’s mission and the role’s requirements.
Slide 4: Peer Review
• Share your letter with a peer for feedback.
• Give and receive constructive feedback on how well the narrative connects experiences to the position.
Slide 5: Ask Peers
• Is the cover letter personalized to the job and company?
• Does it expand on the resume and tell a cohesive story?
• Are there strong connections between the candidate’s experiences and the job role?
[The screen displays screen 2 again. Select the Structure button to move ahead]
Screen 6: The Case for Resume and Cover Letters
Resume and cover letters provide prospective employers with a concise yet impactful snapshot
of your skills, experiences, and professionalism, setting the tone for how you are perceived as a
candidate.
[The screen displays 2 segments]
Select each segment in the visual to learn more.
Segment 1: Misconceptions and Mistakes
• Using the Same for Every Job: Tailor each resume and cover letter to the specific role.
• Listing Duties, Not Achievements: Highlight your impact, not just responsibilities.
• Including Irrelevant Info: Focus on relevant skills and experiences.
• Using Generic Language: Be specific and use action verbs.
• Skipping the Cover Letter: Always personalize your cover letter to explain how you fit a role.
• Formatting Errors: Ensure consistency, no typos, and clean structure.
Segments 2: Activity
• Explore the Example Resume Formats provided (chronological, functional, combination).
• Resume Reflection Questions o What format do you think best highlights your experiences (chronological,
functional, or combination)? Why? o Which section of your resume do you feel needs the most work (experience, skills,
education)? Why? o How does your resume reflect your unique story and value proposition?
Screen 7: Understanding the Structure and Key Elements
Let’s understand the structure and elements of a resume and cover letter.
[The screen displays a timeline with 3 buttons]
Select each button to learn more.
Button 1: Resume
Resume Components
• Contact Information: Ensure it is up-to-date and professional.
• Summary/Objective: Write a concise statement aligning your goals with the job.
• Experience: Highlight relevant roles and accomplishments with measurable achievements.
• Skills: Focus on skills that are directly applicable to the position.
• Education: List education relevant to the field, including key projects or honors.
Button 2: Cover Letter
Cover Letter Components
• Introduction: Clearly state your interest in the role and the organization.
• Experience and Skills: Highlight specific experiences or skills that align with the job requirements.
• Value Proposition: Demonstrate how your unique qualities and experiences can benefit the employer.
• Enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest in the role and the company.
Button 3: Tips
Optimization Tips
• Use action-oriented language. o Use words such as “managed,” “developed,” “coordinated,” “led,” “implemented,”
“facilitated,” “achieved,” “increased,” and “improved.”
• Focus on measurable achievements. o Weak: Taught reading to elementary students. o Strong: Developed and implemented a reading program that improved student
literacy rates by 20% in one year.
[The screen displays screen 2 again. Select the Tips button to move ahead]
Screen 8: Formatting Best Practices for Resumes and Cover Letters
• Format your resume and cover letter to be visually appealing and easy to read, while still professional.
• Fonts: Stick to clean, professional fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Font size should be 10–12 pt.
• White Space: Ensure enough white space between sections for readability.
• Headings: Use bold and slightly larger font size (14 pt) for section headers.
• Alignment: Use consistent alignment (left or justified) for a clean appearance.
Screen 9: Integrating Your Resume and Cover Letter Into
Conversations
Reference your resume and cover letter in conversations with potential employers during interviews or networking events.
[The screen displays two buttons-select each button for more information]
Select each button to learn more.
Button 1: If asked, tell me about yourself.
Tell me about yourself
Suggested Response: Lead with your professional summary to establish your value proposition, and sprinkle in your personal story.
• "I’m a dedicated educator with a passion for literacy programs. Over the past five years, I’ve increased reading levels at my current school by 20% through innovative teaching methods."
Button 2: If asked, what’s your greatest strength?
What’s your greatest strength?
Suggested Response: Refer to the experiences listed on your resume.
• My greatest strength is my ability to connect with diverse learners. In my previous role, I worked with English language learners and created individualized plans that boosted their comprehension levels.
Screen 10: Reflection and Revision
Resumes and cover letters are living documents. That means they are supposed to be continuously revised and refined to reflect feedback received and new skills and experiences.
[The screen displays two hotspots/segments-select each segment for more information]
Select each segment in the visual to learn more.
Segment 1: Tips
Tips
Here are some tips on tailoring resumes and cover letters for different roles or companies:
• Use Job-Specific Keywords: Align with the role using relevant terms.
• Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on applicable skills and achievements.
• Match Tone/Style: Reflect the company’s culture in your writing.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to show your impact.
• Personalize Cover Letter: Mention why you're interested in the company/role.
Segment 2: Feedback
Feedback
Here is how you can adapt and update them as you gain new feedback and experience:
• What is the most challenging part of writing my resume or cover letter? How can I overcome it?
• How does my resume and cover letter reflect my personal story?
• How can I use the feedback I just received to help improve my documents?
• What is one thing I’ll continue to refine as I build my career materials?
[The screen displays screen 2 again]
Screen 11: Summary
This interactive helps students improve their resumes and cover letters by exploring different formats, highlighting achievements, and tailoring them for specific jobs. It covers key components such as using action verbs, quantifying results, and focusing on relevant skills. Students reflect on their value proposition, revise their documents, and receive peer feedback. It also stresses the importance of continuously updating these materials for job applications.
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Early Childcare Worker
Job Title: Early Childcare Worker Department: Childcare / Early Childhood Education Location: [Onsite] Reports To: Lead Teacher / Childcare Director
Job Summary
We are looking for a compassionate, patient, and dedicated early childcare worker to join our childcare team. The early childcare worker will be responsible for supporting the developmental, physical, emotional, and social well-being of children in a safe and nurturing environment. The ideal candidate will collaborate with other childcare staff to create engaging, age-appropriate activities and foster a positive, inclusive atmosphere for young children to learn, play, and grow.
Key Responsibilities
The early childcare worker will
· Supervise and care for children ages [insert age range], ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.
· Assist in the planning and implementation of age-appropriate activities that support cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development, following curriculum guidelines and educational objectives.
· Maintain a positive and nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore.
· Help children develop essential life skills, such as communication, sharing, and cooperation, through structured and play-based learning activities.
· Provide individualized attention to children with varying needs, learning styles, and developmental stages.
· Support children with basic care needs, including feeding, dressing, diapering, and toilet training, while adhering to health and safety protocols.
· Monitor and guide children’s behavior using positive reinforcement techniques, redirecting behaviors as necessary, and modeling appropriate conduct.
· Collaborate with colleagues to ensure the classroom is well-organized, clean, and stocked with necessary supplies.
· Build and maintain open communication with parents and caregivers, updating them regularly on their child’s progress, behaviors, and any concerns.
· Respond promptly and appropriately to emergencies or unexpected situations to ensure the health and safety of all children.
· Promote an inclusive environment that respects children’s cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic diversity.
· Keep accurate records of children’s daily activities, meals, naps, and any behavioral observations.
· Participate in staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and continuous learning to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.
Required Skills and Qualifications
The following skills and qualifications are required for this role:
· Associate’s degree or higher in early childhood education, child development, or a related field
· Bachelor’s degree and CDA (child development associate) credential or equivalent preferred
· Experience of 1–2 years working with young children in a childcare, preschool, or early childhood education setting
· Knowledge of early childhood development principles and age-appropriate practices
· Ability to engage children through creative, interactive, and stimulating activities
· Basic understanding of child safety and health regulations, including CPR and first aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
· Strong communication skills for interacting with children, parents, and colleagues
· Ability to remain patient, calm, and composed in managing children’s behaviors and emotional needs
· Physical ability to lift, carry, and move children or items weighing up to [insert weight], and participate in activities requiring sitting, standing, bending, and moving quickly
· A positive attitude, team-oriented mindset, and commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all children
Preferred Qualifications:
The following skills and experience will be preferable in applicants:
· Associate’s degree or higher in early childhood education, child development, or a related field
· Experience working in a licensed childcare facility or early education program
· Familiarity with state licensing regulations and compliance standards
· Experience with children with disabilities, developmental delays, or behavioral challenges
· Proficiency in multiple languages or experience working with culturally diverse populations
Personal Attributes
Applicants should have the following personal attributes:
· Compassionate, nurturing, and patient with a genuine love for working with young children
· Creative and able to design engaging, developmentally appropriate activities
· Dependable and committed to creating a safe, supportive environment for children to thrive
· Possessing strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting
· Flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances or children's individual needs
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Early Childcare Administrator
Job Title: Early Childcare Administrator Department: Early Childhood Education / Childcare Centers Location: [Onsite] Reports To: Executive Director / Center Owner
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated early childcare administrator to oversee the daily operations of our childcare center. The early childcare administrator will be responsible for ensuring the center runs smoothly, complies with regulations, and provides a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for young children. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in early childhood education, leadership, and staff management, as well as a passion for fostering the growth and development of children.
Key Responsibilities
The early childcare administrator will
· Oversee the childcare center's day-to-day operations, including scheduling, enrollment, staffing, and facilities management.
· Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding childcare, health, safety, and educational standards.
· Develop and implement policies and procedures, including safety protocols, emergency procedures, and staff guidelines, to ensure the smooth operation of the center.
· Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate childcare staff, including teachers, assistants, and support staff.
· Collaborate with staff to develop and implement developmentally appropriate curricula and activities that promote children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
· Manage enrollment processes, including conducting tours, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring communication with parents about their child's progress and needs.
· Develop and maintain relationships with parents and caregivers, fostering open communication and addressing any concerns in a timely and professional manner.
· Ensure that the facility meets high standards of cleanliness, organization, and safety, both indoors and outdoors.
· Create and manage the center's budget, including monitoring expenses, ordering supplies, and overseeing tuition collection.
· Promote a positive, inclusive environment that respects and supports the diversity of children, families, and staff.
· Plan and facilitate staff development and training to ensure that all staff members are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to provide high-quality care.
· Evaluate the effectiveness of the childcare programs through regular assessments, staff feedback, and parent input, and make necessary adjustments to improve the quality of care and education.
· Stay up to date with current research, trends, and best practices in early childhood education, and apply this knowledge to improve center practices.
· Handle any emergency situations or behavioral issues in a manner that aligns with the center's values and policies.
· Maintain strong relationships with community resources, licensing agencies, and other professionals to ensure the highest standards of care and education.
Required Skills and Qualifications
The following skills and qualifications are required for this role:
· Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, child development, education administration, or a related field
· Experience of 3–5 years in early childhood education, with at least 2 years in a leadership or administrative role
· In-depth knowledge of early childhood development and best practices for early education
· Strong understanding of local, state, and federal childcare regulations and licensing requirements
· Experience in staff management, including hiring, training, and performance evaluation
· Strong budgeting and financial management skills, with experience managing the finances of a childcare facility or similar program
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with staff, families, and community members
· Ability to work effectively in a diverse environment and manage conflicts in a constructive manner
· Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively
· Proficiency with administrative software (e.g., child management systems) and basic office software (e.g., MS Office)
· Ability to handle emergency situations calmly and effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of children and staff
Preferred Qualifications
The following skills and experience will be preferable in applicants:
· Experience in curriculum development and implementation for early childhood programs
· Knowledge of special education needs and experience in creating inclusive learning environments
· Certification in first aid and CPR, as well as any required local or state certifications related to early childhood administration
· Proven experience in parent engagement and effective family communication
The post Create Your Cover Letter? Prepare Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, review Chapter 2 of the Life After College: Presenting Yourself to the Workforc first appeared on Ehomeworker.
