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!
These Thanksgiving and gratitude living books have been favorites around our house for years. Some help explain the history of our Thanksgiving celebration, while others are just sweet stories with a Thanksgiving theme. Yet others really have nothing to do with Thanksgiving, in particular, but focus on a spirit of gratitude that’s such an important…
I love unit studies, and autumn is the perfect time for fun, nature-based science topics. In September, 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 about apples…
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…
Yes, I’ve told you how much we love literature around here many times. While I teach geography through maps, quizzes, and games, the best way to connect to the maps and their culture is through really good books. Enjoy this giant list of world geography living literature with your elementary children. This post contains affiliate links….
Do you remember when Eli and I took a short detour from our regular Story of the World studies to learn more about Vikings? We detoured again – this time with a mini pirate unit study. Should I have been shocked? What boy (and many girls) wouldn’t love extra time to hang out with pirates? This…
Do you have more than one child? How about gifted kids? Perhaps struggling learners? Do you have active children? Is hands-on learning a preference? Do your children love to get lost in certain topics? Could they take more ownership of their work? Would you love for them to really “get” what they’re learning? Do you want to teach all of your children the…
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…
Homeschooling in December can be rough. Everyone needs a bit of a break from the monotony of the regular homeschooling schedule. Because of this, some families choose to take the entire month off from homeschooling. Others, switch the curriculum to focus on the preparations of Christmas and turning the hearts of their children toward the…
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,…
Once upon a time, there was a homeschooling mom who didn’t have a lot of money. She heard about homeschooling cheaply – or even for free – and decided this had to be the way to go… I like homeschooling on the cheap just like everyone else. In fact, I’ve been able to homeschool very frugally…
Please welcome Jen Vail, a regular feature writer here at Our Journey Westward! She’s here to encourage you that the homeschool extras matter – for your children AND YOU. If you enjoy the blog post, let her know in the comments! I have a confession to make: I do not homeschool all of my children….
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. This post contains affiliate links. Interest-Based Ocean Study Rabbit Trails Sometimes interest-based…