We’ve used A LOT of curriculum over the years. Really good curriculum, mind you. But, when it comes to history and science in the elementary and middle school years, nothing has quite matched the success of unit studies in our homeschool.
The reasons? SO much learning can take place in a reasonable amount of time. We can read wonderful living literature, take amazing field trips, and include as many (or as few) hands-on projects as we like. We can include whatever lessons from other subjects that we like – research, writing, experiments, cooking, art, poetry – the possibilities are endless.
Unit studies can be fully planned from the beginning or flow based on students’ interests. They are wonderful to use with project-based learning. And, best of all, they can easily be used with multiple ages. In the articles that follow, you’ll find several unit study plans, how-to’s for creating your own unit studies, tutorials for project-based learning, and tips for successful interest-based studies. Have fun!
When I used to teach elementary school, every teacher used a portion of the fourth-grade year to teach a rich Kentucky unit study. It was always full of learning about historical events and people, as well as important state symbols, culture, and things that make KY a special place to live. As a proud Kentucky…
This chemistry project for kids was one of the highlights of the school year for my children! It also happened to be our last project of the school year, which means we just wrapped up a long and fruitful homeschool year. In our homeschool, we follow a four-year cycle for science. Besides the weekly (or…
Eli and I have just begun our history studies for the year and I’m very glad to report that I might have another history lover on my hands! This ancient history art project is a motivating one for sure. This post contains affiliate links. Oh, how I have missed Story of the World. It’s just such…
Do you remember when Eli and I took a short detour from our regular Story of the World studies to learn more about Vikings? Well, we detoured again – this time with a mini pirate unit study. Should I have been shocked? I mean, what boy (and even lots of girls) wouldn’t love some extra time…
Using movies in your homeschool might seem like a cop-out, but it’s not at all when you use them for some fun learning. Project-based learning is the best. My kids have not only been more excited and engaged during a project vs. plain old textbook learning, but they have also absorbed SO much more information….
Enjoy the magic of Christmas with this precious literature-based lesson that includes a special service project for your family to do together. I think you’re going to love the Silver Packages activity so much that it might even become a Christmas tradition. Traditions help families build relationships and give a sense of peace and security…
The main topic of this year’s science rotation in our homeschool is physics, so I’m preparing a few unit studies that lend themselves well to experimentation and exploration. This light and sound unit study will be first in the lineup and is just perfect for 3rd-7th grade students. It’s packed full of meaningful, practical activities…
It might sound pretty boring to consider teaching a middle school geology study. I mean, isn’t geology just about rocks…and aren’t rocks, well, just rocks? Geology is WAY more than “just” rocks! It’s the study of everything about the earth’s crust – what it’s made of, how the amazing landforms were created, and what materials…
During the elementary and middle school years, our history studies – for the most part – take place as unit studies. In a relatively short amount of time, we can cover SO much material in fun and interesting lessons. And this unit was no exception! Over the course of about six weeks, our Colonial History…
After our early autumn trip to the beach, Eli was immensely interested in beach life. When I found him pouring over one of our souvenir attraction maps, I knew it was wise to capitalize on his enthusiasm. =So…a quick, delight-directed ocean study started immediately. Interest-Based Ocean Study Rabbit Trails Sometimes interest-based learning is entirely built around…
I love unit studies and autumn is the perfect time for several, fun, nature-based science topics. In September particularly, apple orchards are at peak harvest and it just so happens to be the birth month of Johnny Appleseed! Use any or all of the ideas below to enjoy an educational and yummy autumn unit study…
Yes, I’ve told you many times before how much we love literature around here. While I do teach geography through maps, quizzes, and games, the best way to make a real connection to the maps and their culture is through really good books. Enjoy this giant list of world geography living literature with your elementary children….
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