OVERVIEW
What Is a Social Studies Teacher?
Social studies” is an interdisciplinary field that explores human societies, cultures, history, geography, economics, politics, and civics. It emphasizes understanding the relationships between people, their interactions with the environment, and the development of societal structures over time. The primary goal of social studies is to prepare individuals to become informed, active, and responsible citizens in a complex and interconnected world.
A social studies teacher acts as a facilitator, encouraging discussions and debates that help students make connections between past and present while equipping them with skills to engage with the future thoughtfully. For example:
- Elementary school teachers often mix social studies with other core subjects such as reading and writing, introducing students to basic concepts of community and citizenship.
- Middle school teachers expand on these ideas, incorporating more in-depth lessons on world history and geography.
- High school teachers provide specialized instruction in subjects like U.S. history, government, or economics.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Social Studies Teacher Do?
The day-to-day responsibilities of a social studies teacher are dynamic and diverse. Here are some of the core tasks they handle:
- Creating lesson plans that align with curriculum standards while ensuring engaging and interactive material for students.
- Teaching critical concepts through textbooks and supplemental materials that bring social studies to life.
- Assessing students’ comprehension and progress, then providing constructive feedback.
- Creating games and activities to make learning exciting via historical role-playing games, geography quizzes, or current event discussions that encourage participation.
- Overseeing extracurriculars like debate teams, mock trial clubs, or history fairs to foster further student engagement outside the classroom.
Where Does a Social Studies Teacher Work?
Social studies teachers primarily work in educational institutions, ranging from middle schools to high schools, and occasionally in higher education settings such as community colleges or universities. They can be found in both public and private schools, tailoring their teaching environments to meet the curriculum standards and values of the institution. Additionally, some may work in specialized settings like alternative schools, online education platforms, or international schools, bringing the subject to diverse audiences.
Beyond traditional classrooms, social studies teachers may also contribute to educational nonprofits, museums, or cultural organizations, where they help design programs, workshops, or materials that educate the public on historical, cultural, and civic topics.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become a Social Studies Teacher?
Becoming a social studies teacher involves fulfilling several educational and professional requirements:
Education
Obtain a bachelor’s degree in education or a relevant field like history, geography, or political science. Some programs offer a specialization in social studies education.
Certification
After completing your degree, you’ll need to be licensed to teach. Requirements vary by state but typically include passing the Praxis exam and other state-approved tests.
Continuing Education
To maintain and improve your teaching credentials, many states require continuing education through workshops, advanced coursework, or additional certifications.
Specializations
Consider specializing in a specific aspect of social studies such as economics, world history, or U.S. government to target niche teaching roles in upper grades.
Best Degrees for a Social Studies Teacher
Education
Educational Studies – B.A.
These online, non-licensure educational studies degrees prepare you to...
These online, non-licensure educational studies degrees prepare you to make a difference in a field that interests you.
Based on your career goals and interests, you can choose an educational studies program in one of 10 content areas that meets your needs while working toward employment in school settings, corporate training, or instructional design. These programs do not lead to a teaching license.
- Time: Completion time varies depending on the specialty track you choose.
- Tuition: $3,825 per 6-month term.
- This bachelor's degree allows students to learn about education but does not include student teaching and it does not lead to a teaching license.
Focus areas of this educational studies degree program include:
- Elementary Education
- Elementary and Special Education
- Mild to Moderate Special Education
- Secondary Biology Science Education
- Secondary Chemistry Science Education
- Secondary Earth Science Education
- Secondary Physics Education
- Secondary Mathematics Education
How Much Does a Social Studies Teacher Make?
$65,000
The salary of a social studies teacher can vary widely depending on factors such as location, level of education, years of experience, and the type of institution where they work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for high school and middle school teachers is around $65,000. Additionally, educators working in well-funded private schools or international institutions may see salaries that exceed national averages. However, it is important to note that benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development often add significant value to compensation packages in this profession.
What Is the Job Outlook?
1%
Employment of high school and middle school teachers, including social studies educators, is expected to decrease by 1% from 2023 to 2033, according to the BLS. However, job availability may vary significantly between urban, suburban, and rural districts. For social studies teachers, opportunities may be stronger in schools emphasizing history, civics, and cultural studies.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Social Studies Teacher Need?
To succeed as a social studies teacher and effectively engage students, several skills are essential. These include:
- Content knowledge: A deep understanding of subjects like history, geography, economics, and civics is vital to preparing students for academic success and world awareness.
- Strong communication skills: Teachers must clearly convey complex concepts, facilitate discussions, and actively listen to their students' perspectives.
- Critical thinking and analysis: Social studies often require examining historical events, societal structures, and current affairs. Teachers need to analyze information and guide students in forming informed opinions.
- Technological skills: Incorporating digital tools and online resources into lessons enhances learning experiences and prepares students for a tech-driven world.
- Classroom management: The ability to create an organized, disciplined, and inclusive learning environment is key to ensuring students remain engaged and focused.
- Adaptability and creativity: Teachers may need to adjust lesson plans according to students' needs and find innovative ways to make learning interactive and enjoyable.
- Cultural competence: Understanding and respecting diversity helps teachers connect with students from varied backgrounds and encourages open-mindedness.
- Patience and empathy: Supporting students through challenges requires patience and the ability to empathize with their individual circumstances and learning journeys.
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