Unit Studies

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!

Westward Expansion unit study image with a black & white photo of a horse wagon

Westward Expansion Unit Study

Even in a Charlotte Mason-inspired homeschool, I’ve found unit studies highly beneficial to learning. With lots of living books and meaningful project-based learning, this westward expansion unit study was an excellent way to learn history in our homeschool. The time my children and I spent learning about pioneers during the westward expansion era was full…

Cartoon lightbulb with a smiling face and arms. This icon is on an image about a light and sound unit study.

Light and Sound Unit Study

A light and sound unit study works well in a homeschool physics science rotation. Packed full of meaningful activities, experimentation, and exploration, this unit study is perfect for 3rd-7th-grade students! Great informational books and biographies set the stage, while project-based and research-based activities allow for deeper learning on certain topics of interest. Get a downloadable…

Boy observing a gravestone on the blog image for a Cemetery Scavenger Hunt.

A Cemetery Scavenger Hunt Makes a Great History Lesson

Eeeewww! A cemetery scavenger hunt? Are you serious? Yes! Believe it or not, this is a REALLY cool activity because cemeteries are chock-full of history! We’ve visited several cemeteries over the years as we’ve studied our state’s history. And, you might remember the times we’ve utilized our beautiful cemeteries for science purposes like winter nature walks, conifer studies,…