A Day in the Life of a Social Studies Teacher Back to Top

General

Defined by the National Council for Social Studies, Social Studies is “the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence.” General Social Studies encompasses Civics, Government, Geography, World History, US History, and Current Issues all in one. General Social Studies gives a foundation of all areas of social studies before students begin to take classes that specialize in a certain area. Typically, students will take general social studies in elementary school, and then move to more specific areas of study in middle school, and even more specific studies in High School and College. Teachers use lessons in a variety of subjects to help students become knowledgeable citizens.

Elementary and Middle School

In Elementary School, students take social studies every year. The first year is the most basic, and then each year the courses get more specific and detailed. The social studies courses in elementary high school typically cover the basics of US History, World History, and Government. In Middle School, students will typically take a specific social studies class each year. Usually, there is one year of US History, one year or World History, one year of Geography, and one year of Government.

High School

High School social studies classes are more dedicated to focusing on the complete and thorough study of a particular subject. In most school districts, students will take two years of US History as their social study in High School. Students usually are required to take a year of US History as well. The fourth social study is typically optional, an elective such as Government or Politics. The social studies courses in High School go beyond the basics and give students a much more thorough knowledge of the given subject.

The demand for social teachers is expected to grow over 10% in the next 5 years. To become a Social Studies teacher at any level, there are some requirements. All 50 states require that a public school teacher be licensed. Usually, those teaching a specific course must also have at least a 4-year degree as well as teacher-preparation courses. Many states also have programs that allow college graduates with expertise in their field to obtain a license without taking any additional preparation courses. According to American Federation of Teachers (AFT), a traditional public school social studies teacher earns a salary of just over $51,000. Every state requires that a Social Studies teacher hold a bachelor’s degree and obtain a teaching certificate.

Teacher Career Resources & Advice Back to Top

Social Studies Teacher Jobs Back to Top

Recent JobsBack to Top

• Full Time English Teaching Job in China - Tianjin,China, TX
• Language School-Fushun, Liaoning-5,000-7,000 RMB - Recruit 4 china, NY
• Language School-Wenzhou, Zhejiang-9,000RMB - China, AL
• English Teaching Job in China - Tianjin, AL
• English Teaching Job in China - Tianjin, AL

View All Jobs