Which three areas are commonly included in the social studies curriculum?

The inclusion of history, geography, and civics in the social studies curriculum is essential because these subjects provide a comprehensive understanding of societies, cultures, and the functioning of governments.

History is key to understanding the development of human societies over time, as it examines past events, influential figures, and pivotal movements that shaped nations and communities. Geography explores the physical landscapes, environments, and spatial relationships that influence human behavior and cultural practices. Civics focuses on the rules, rights, and responsibilities of citizenship, as well as the workings of government and civic engagement. Together, these three areas equip students with the knowledge needed to navigate and contribute to their communities effectively.

In contrast, the other combinations listed do not encompass the primary focus of social studies. Mathematics, biology, and philosophy tend to be categorized under STEM and humanities rather than social studies. Similarly, economics, psychology, and art offer valuable insights but do not cover the core governmental and societal functions as directly as history, geography, and civics do. Lastly, literature, physics, and chemistry are primarily associated with language arts and the sciences, which are distinct from the goals and content of a social studies education.