The unit studies approach is designed to give both in-depth and broad understandings of subjects revolving around some entire theme that interests the child. This integrated approach includes science, math, geography, art, music, history, language, literature, drama, and creative movement. It is often referred to as a multi-disciplinary or a thematic approach. It is an experiential, hands-on approach to learning. It is believed that when children go into such depth, and spend a generous amount of time on each theme, their retention of the subject is higher than in traditional methods. Other terms used to describe this approach are: Block Scheduling and Thematic Units.
Since the central focus is on one theme, all core subjects are integrated together based on that particular theme. The primary advantage, of course, is that the subjects are blended together and not learned separately. There are many other advantages with the unit study approach:
1. Children of all ages and different levels can learn together.
2. Unit studies are relatively low in cost, especially if you create your own unit.
3. Because the studies are learner-generated, the child gets an in-depth understanding of each topic, and in turn develops mastery and retention of the material.
4. Since there are no time restraints, the child is given ample time to think, experiment and discover each topic through his own natural way of learning.
5. Since unit studies are multi-aged, the younger child learns immeasurably from and through the older child.
6. The creative hands-on projects and activities are great fun.
7. Anything can spark an interest: television, radio, books, and common conversations. This makes unit planning fairly easy.
If you are new to homeschooling, or planning on using the unit study approach, there are many Web sites, books and preplanned units available free or for purchase.
Additional Resources:
- Unit Studies
Online Networking & Support, Unit Studies Message Boards & E-mail Loops and Unit Study Sites - What is The Unit Study Approach?
Curriculum, articles and resources for books and magazines. - Unit Studies Forum
A message forum that hosts a message board for unit study homeschoolers to post messages, ideas, etc. - Frequently Asked Questions About Unit Studies
A Great site that answers many FAQ's about unit studies. It even includes ideas and unit purchase sites. - Unit Study Helps by J & L Consultants
A website that helps you with questions, products, newsletters and tips for the unit study approach. - Peg's Unit Study Planning Guide
Helps you to plan your own unit study - Unit Studies Link Page
We have over 200 Unit Studies linked here. That's right! 200 unit ideas, plans and resources. - Unit Studies Department
More unit study resources by EHO. - Unit Studies at About.Com
Articles and ideas for unit studies, as well as online units. - Sassafrass Grove Unity Studies for Homeschoolers
Charity Lovelace put together this long list of Unit Study sites. - Home Educator.Com
Learning Success with Unit Studies and More - A to Z Cool Homeschooling
Ann Zeise is your guide to over 700 pages of the best and most
interesting and useful sites and articles about home education on the
web.