Teaching social studies for the first time? You're not alone, and you definitely don't have to figure it all out by yourself.

In this episode, I'm sharing the five biggest mistakes I made as a new social studies teacher (and the same mistakes I see many teachers make today). More importantly, I'll show you simple, practical solutions that you can implement before the first day of school.

Whether you've been assigned a new grade level, don't have a curriculum, or simply want to feel more confident planning your year, these tips will help you build a social studies block that is engaging, organized, and sustainable.

In This Video

  • Why passage-only instruction often leads to disengagement
  • How planning by unit saves time all year long
  • Why consistency matters more than long social studies blocks
  • The classroom routines every social studies teacher should establish
  • How to save time by using quality, ready-to-use resources
  • Simple strategies to build an engaging and sustainable social studies routine


If you're preparing for back-to-school, these five mindset shifts can help you avoid burnout and spend more time focusing on what matters most...your students.

Resources Mentioned

Social Studies Bootcamp - thesouthernteach.com/bootcamp

Plan Your Social Studies Year From Start to Finish

Mentioned in this episode:

Leave a Review for The Social Studies Teacher Podcast!

Are you loving the podcast? I'd love to hear your feedback! Click the link to leave a review!

Rate and Review the Podcast

Free Guided Lesson Sampler for Texas Social Studies Teachers

Looking for a ready-to-use social studies lesson for your grade level? Grab a free guided lesson sample created specifically for Texas teachers.

Choose from 3rd grade Communities, 4th grade Texas History, 5th grade U.S. History, 6th grade World Cultures, or 7th grade Texas History.

Each sampler includes a teacher guide, lesson slideshow, digital version, guided notes, practice activity, exit ticket, answer keys, and more information about the full 36-week guided curriculum program.

Download your free sampler and choose your grade level at thesouthernteach.com/lessons

Podden och tillhörande omslagsbild på den här sidan tillhör Kirsten Hammond, The Southern Teach LLC. Innehållet i podden är skapat av Kirsten Hammond, The Southern Teach LLC och inte av, eller tillsammans med, Poddtoppen.