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Become a Social Studies Teacher

Prepare students to become informed citizens: Be a social studies teacher

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If you enjoy reading articles on politics and current affairs, actively taking part in community events, and sharing your keen interest in the social sciences with others, you might consider a career teaching social studies.

A democratic republic such as the US relies heavily on the civic competence of its citizens to function properly. Citizens of a democracy have the right to understand, appreciate and apply critical thinking to social and cultural structures and government workings, and how these institutions affect their day-to-day lives. This is where your role as a social studies teacher comes in to play.

Social Studies Teacher Job Description

social studies teacher helping students with a school assignment

The term "social studies" refers to the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities. These areas of study are central to a student's civic intelligence. At middle school and high school levels, a social studies education is often integrated using multiple disciplines, such as history, sociology, political science and geography. Some high schools may also offer curriculum or advanced classes in economics, business, anthropology, psychology and philosophy.

The primary goal of social studies is to explain the development and progression of social events and theories and to explain the institutions and processes that define our democratic republic. As a result, the subject matter is broad and the curriculum diverse. Some typical duties may include the following:

  • Reading and fully understanding the curriculum
  • Preparing and delivering cohesive lectures
  • Actively engaging students in group discussions
  • Distributing reading and writing assignments
  • Creating fun and stimulating class projects that explore social issues
  • Coordinating with other teachers involved in your integrated studies program
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What Will My Constituency Look Like?

As a full-time secondary-school social studies teacher, you'll probably teach a number of classes a day to different groups of students. Curriculum will vary by class, but you'll frequently have the opportunity to use secondary sources and interactive media. For example, one week you may examine the history of persuasive advertising using old magazines, while the next you might explore the current political landscape through online political cartoons and ads. You might work in one of the following settings:

  • secondary schools, such as middle and high schools
  • elementary schools
  • public or private schools
  • 2-year colleges or 4-year universities
  • community centers

What Do Compensation Polls Say?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary social studies teachers in varying fields earned an average annual salary of $79,208 in 2007. At the high end of the spectrum, economics teachers received an average salary of $83,030. According to the same statistics, if you are teaching in a secondary or middle school, you may earn an average annual salary closer to $52, 450. In addition to a competitive salary, most public school teachers enjoy comprehensive benefits packages and lengthy summer vacations.

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What Kind of Education Do I Need?

To become a social studies teacher, you'll need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in education from an accredited teaching program, along with a major in social studies. If you already have a bachelor's in a social studies discipline, such as history or sociology, you may be able to complete a fifth-year course in education while also fulfilling any additional core study requirements. Another option is to pursue a master's degree in education, which some states require all teachers to earn within a specific time period.

How Do I Get Certified?

Although teacher certification requirements vary by state, all public school teachers must be certified. Certification usually entails proof of degree, a specific number of subject and education credits, hands-on teaching experience and a competency test. Some states also require a minimum GPA. Additionally, your state may require you to take continuing education courses to maintain your teaching license. Certification may not be necessary if you choose to teach at a private school.

Teaching social studies can be a highly rewarding career, especially if you enjoy kindling curiosity and contemplation in the minds of students. As a social studies teacher, you'll help students develop the knowledge and skills necessary for reflective social inquiry—an essential function for all responsible citizens.

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US History Debunked

  • America has never had buffalo. The great animals that roamed our plains are actually bison, only distantly related to the two "true buffaloes": water buffalo and African buffalo.
  • Paul Revere's famed ride wasn't as smooth as you might think. He got the message as far as Lexington—his original goal—but he was stopped by British soldiers after he decided to continue to Concord, to spread the word to weapon and supply stores there. He also didn't cry out, "The British are coming!" Not only did his mission's success depend on secrecy, but, according to Revere's own account, his warning was "the regulars are coming out."
  • There is no evidence that Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag. An accomplished seamstress and acquaintance of such luminaries as George Washington, she is known to have made flags, but only family oral history claims this distinguished accomplishment for her.

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