Social Studies (Samhällskunskap) in the Swedish Gymnasieskolan Curriculum

Social Studies is an interdisciplinary subject rooted in political science, sociology, and economics, incorporating perspectives from other social sciences and humanities. It utilizes concepts, theories, models, and methods from these disciplines to understand and explain complex societal issues, often within a historical context.

Course Structure

The Social Studies curriculum includes the following courses:

• Social Studies 1a1 (SAMSAM01a1): 50 points. This course covers fundamental concepts and cannot be included in a student's diploma alongside Social Studies 1b.
• Social Studies 1a2 (SAMSAM01a2): 50 points. Builds upon Social Studies 1a1 and cannot be included in a student's diploma alongside Social Studies 1b.
• Social Studies 1b (SAMSAM01b): 100 points. Covers fundamental concepts and cannot be included in a student's diploma alongside Social Studies 1a1 or 1a2.
• Social Studies 2 (SAMSAM02): 100 points. Builds upon Social Studies 1a2 or 1b.
• Social Studies 3 (SAMSAM03): 100 points. Builds upon Social Studies 2.
• International Economics (SAMINE0): 100 points. Builds upon Social Studies 1a2 or 1b.
• International Relations (SAMINR0): 100 points. Builds upon Social Studies 1a2 or 1b.

Course Content

Each course covers various aspects of social studies, with increasing complexity and depth as students progress. Key areas include:

• Democracy and Human Rights: Students learn about democratic systems at local, national, and EU levels, including international and Nordic cooperation. The curriculum emphasizes citizen participation, power distribution, and the impact of digitalization on democracy. Human rights, both individual and collective, are also a central theme, including the rights of children and youth.
• Social and Economic Issues: The curriculum addresses issues related to the labor market, including labor laws, working environments, and the role of unions. Students also explore social identities, relationships, and living conditions, considering how social categories create both community and exclusion. Personal finance, consumer rights, and the relationship between private and public economics are also covered.
• Globalization: Social Studies 3 delves into globalization and its impact on individuals, groups, and nations from democratic, economic, and political perspectives. Students analyze the challenges posed by globalization and explore solutions to complex societal issues.
• Research and Critical Thinking: Throughout the curriculum, students develop a scientific approach to social issues, learning to gather, analyze, and evaluate information from various sources. They practice critical thinking skills, including source evaluation and argument analysis. The curriculum emphasizes the use of digital tools for research and presentation.
• Presentation Skills: Students develop their presentation skills through various formats, including debates, reports, and essays. They learn to express their knowledge and opinions both orally and in writing, using digital tools as appropriate.

Assessment

Students are assessed based on their knowledge and skills in each course. The grading system uses a scale from A to E, with A being the highest grade and E the lowest passing grade. Assessment criteria include:

• Knowledge and Understanding: Demonstrating knowledge of social structures, historical context, and key theories.
• Analysis and Evaluation: Analyzing complex social issues, identifying causes and consequences, and evaluating different perspectives.
• Research and Communication: Conducting research, evaluating sources, and presenting information effectively.
• Critical Thinking: Formulating arguments, evaluating evidence, and engaging in critical discussions.