Thailand Mattayom 4 Curriculum - Social Studies

Social Studies, Religion and Culture Learning Area emphasizes peaceful coexistence in Thai society and the world community. It aims to develop good citizenship, faith in religious teachings, appreciation of resources and the environment, and patriotism and pride in Thai-ness. The curriculum is based on the Basic Education Core Curriculum of 2008 (

Strands and Learning Standards:

• Strand 1: Religion, Morality and Ethics
• Standard So1.1: Knowledge and understanding of the history, importance, the Masters, and moral principles of Buddhism or those of one's faith and other religions; having the right faith; adherence and observance of moral principles for peaceful coexistence.
• Standard So1.2: Understanding, awareness and personal conduct of devout believers; and observance and furtherance of Buddhism or one's faith.
• Strand 2: Civics, Culture and Living in Society
• Standard So2.1: Understanding and personal conduct in accord with duties and responsibilities of good citizens; observance and preservation of Thai tradition and culture; and enjoying peaceful coexistence in Thai society and the world community.
• Standard So2.2: Understanding of political and administrative systems of the present society; adherence to, faith in, and upholding of the democratic form of government under constitutional monarchy.
• Strand 3: Economics
• Standard So3.1: Understanding and capability of managing resources for production and consumption; efficient and cost-effective utilisation of limited resources; and understanding principles of Sufficiency Economy for leading a balanced life.
• Standard So3.2: Understanding of various economic systems and institutions; economic relations; and necessity for economic cooperation in the world community.
• Strand 4: History
• Standard So4.1: Understanding of the meaning and significance of historical times and periods; ability to use historical methodology for systematic analysis of various events.
• Standard So4.2: Understanding of development of mankind from the past to the present; realising the importance of relationships and continuous changes of events, and ability to analyse their effects.
• Standard So4.3: Knowledge of historical development of Thailand as a nation; culture; Thai wisdom; cherishing, pride in and preservation of Thai-ness.
• Strand 5: Geography
• Standard So5.1: Understanding of physical characteristics of the Earth and inter-relationship of various things in the natural system which affect one another; utilisation of maps and geographical instruments for searching, analysing, drawing conclusions from, and efficiently utilising geo-data and information.
• Standard So5.2: Understanding of interrelationship between man and physical environment leading to cultural creativity; awareness and participation in conservation of resources and the environment for sustainable development.

Learner Development Activities: These activities are designed to develop well-rounded individuals, instill morality and self-discipline, and foster a spirit of philanthropy. They are divided into three types:

1. Counseling Activities: Focus on self-awareness, environmental protection, decision-making, problem-solving, goal setting, and career planning. 2. Student Activities: Promote self-discipline, leadership, teamwork, responsibility, problem-solving, and rational decision-making. Examples include Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Junior Red Cross, and various clubs. 3. Activities for Social and Public Interest: Encourage volunteerism and community service.

Learning Time Allocation: The curriculum allocates a minimum of 320 hours for Social Studies, Religion, and Culture in Mattayom 4 (8 credits). Schools can increase this time based on their resources and priorities. The breakdown within the subject is as follows: History (80 hours/2 credits), and Religion, Morality and Ethics, Civics, Culture and Living in Society, Economics, and Geography combined (240 hours/6 credits).