Social studies is the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence. Within the school program, social studies provide coordinated, systematic study drawing upon such disciplines as anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, history, law, philosophy, political science, psychology, religion, and sociology, as well as appropriate content from the humanities, mathematics, and natural sciences. The primary purpose of social studies is to help young people develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society in an interdependent world.  ~ National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)

Social Studies Standards

Iowa Social Studies Standards

Social Studies Courses

  • American History 5, 8, 11
  • Ancient History 6
  • AP Human Geography 10-12
  • Contemporary Global Studies 7
  • Economics 12
  • Macroeconomics
  • Government 12
  • AP Government & Politics 12
  • Psychology 11-12
  • Sociology 11-12
  • US History to 1877
  • US History from 1877
  • World Geography 9-10
  • World History 10

Graduation Requirements

A total of 6 credits must be earned including:

  • 1 credit in World Geography
  • 1 credit in World History
  • 2 credits in American History
  • 1 credit in Government
  • 1 credit in Economics (including instruction in Financial Literacy)
  • F.I.R.S.T. (requirement of all 9th-grade students)

Curriculum Resources