A social studies teacher is a teacher who teaches students about a variety of topics related to understanding and contributing to societies all over the world. Politics, history, government, and geography are among the subjects she frequently teaches. Topics such as current events, civics, and ethical issues are also popular. Depending on the school system’s structure, this type of teacher may teach in grades ranging from kindergarten to 12th grade.
The variety of subjects that fit into a social studies class is the most distinguishing feature of being a social studies teacher. A math teacher is required to teach some form of mathematics, such as basic arithmetic, algebra, or geometry, but a social studies teacher can have a lesson plan that travels the globe and includes discussions on virtually any topic that affects society. Interest in one topic frequently sparks interest in another.
A social studies teacher may assign homework and projects related to current issues and historical events that may have had significant societal consequences, depending on the grade level at which she teaches. As they progress toward adulthood in high school, her students may express political leanings. Students in lower grades are frequently taught more concrete subjects such as geography and history.
Because many social studies topics are sensitive, a successful teacher is expected to maintain neutrality when introducing and leading discussions. Her empathy and unbiased perspective, particularly at the high school and junior high school levels, usually earns the students’ trust. This trust often leads to candor in classroom discussions and encourages students to learn more about a variety of topics.
A core curriculum is usually required of social studies teachers, as it is for all other teachers. She is expected to modify the curriculum to account for her students’ diverse cultural backgrounds, attitudes, and academic abilities. Students are divided into groups to study various topics, and formal debates on social issues are common teaching methods that help students learn from and about one another.
A social studies teacher frequently asks her students to bring in magazine and newspaper articles that have piqued their interest in current events in addition to using standardized textbooks. This usually sparks an interesting classroom discussion. It also gives the teacher and students a better understanding of which issues are truly important to them.
A bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate are typically required to become a social studies teacher. Region and school requirements may differ. It is not always necessary to have prior teaching experience. For this position, demonstrated communication and motivational skills are preferred.