Units

I LOVE to plan unit studies!

I also love thrift stores.  Toward the beginning of our homeschool endeavor, I stumbled upon copies of The Unit Study Idea Book and How to Create Your Own Unit Study.  I didn't really know what I was purchasing, but hey, I paid a dollar for the set, so I figured they were worth a shot.  Reading through these opened a world of ideas for how we could structure our studies, especially in the elementary years.

Generally, our units last about six weeks (because our charter school is organized into 6-week units).  Lately, our unit studies have been primarily science and literature, but sometimes we add history as well.  That's the beauty of designing your own unit studies - super flexible!

Once I have decided on a theme, I search the internet for organizations dedicated to the topic, Polar Bears International for our Arctic unit for example.  These organizations often have lesson plans and resources for educators.  I also check my favorite curriculum developers for resources, and my extensive list of read-aloud ideas that are sorted by theme/time/location.  Finally, and perhaps the most important (and fun!) is a quick search for exhibits, films, and resources from museums within driving distance.  A field trip to kick-off or wrap-up a unit is always a hit!

Check out some of our units and themed studies below!