Homeschooling Unit Studies Made Easy
May 2005

On any given day we are almost unaware that we are learning a number of different subjects. For example, when we go shopping we are utilizing nutrition, math, economics, and communication skills, yet the process flows under the shopping concept. Unit studies are based on this idea. They incorporate a number of different subjects at the same time and provide an overarching concept to tie the information together. This approach mimics "real life" learning.

The unit studies approach is designed to give both broad and in-depth understandings of subjects. 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.

Most unit studies include experiential, hands-on learning along with the inclusion of subjects such as science, math, geography, art, music, history, language, literature, drama, and creative movement. Since the central focus is on one theme, all core subjects are integrated together based on that particular theme.

In addition to the deeper learning, unit studies can be tailored so that children of all ages and different levels can learn together and be given ample time to think, experiment and discover each topic for themselves.

Unit studies are relatively low in cost, especially if you create your own, which is not as difficult as it might seem. The planning involves starting with a larger picture and working your way down to the specifics. First, pick a theme or topic, say poetry. Ask yourself "What is most important for my child to learn about poetry?" Generate 3 or 4 essential questions that a child using the theme should know at the end of the unit.

These might be "How does someone appreciate poetry?", "How is poetry useful in 'real life'?" and "What impact has poetry had on the world?" Now, these are very grand questions and are not rooted in practical information but rather a wider, deeper understanding of the theme of poetry. (If you have difficulty generating questions you could look at the National Standards for ideas.)

But how can students answer these questions? The second step is to select subjects and topics that are critical to learning about poetry and then develop specific questions that yield information pieces that will be put together to form a knowledge-building puzzle. As the student puts the puzzle together, the overall understanding becomes clearer.

For poetry you may want to include art, history, and of course language arts as your subjects. You would then generate unit questions specific to your subject and theme that connect to the essential questions:

The next step is to decide how you will evaluate (assessment) what your child has learned from the information. By basing your assessment on the questions you can easily generate ideas for determining understanding. For instance, to determine if a student understands the different types of poetry you could have them write a sample of each one. Or, to see if your child appreciates the place in society of poetry you could have them analyze certain poetic works and research their references to history.

With the hard work behind you, the next part is easy (and fun!) The final step is generating appropriate lessons and activities for your child based on the Unit Questions and tailored to match their academic level, learning style, and specific needs.

The lessons you create should be developed with the student in mind. You want to create learning that is engaging for the child, that offers them an appropriate challenge, and that provides an opportunity for digging deeper. You will include your ideas for assessment and give the students the background information and resources, materials, and tools to be able to complete the lessons. Be sure to use a format that works for you and provides you with the necessary information for your documentation and daily scheduling.

If you are interested in creating your own Unit Studies you can check out Valerie Bendt's book Unit Studies Made Easy.

The great thing about Unit Studies is their flexibility. Even if you create your unit study with a specific child in mind it still can be adapted for an older child, or another subject, for instance.

The best way to begin is to choose a theme you are comfortable with and brainstorm the first questions. Why is this theme important and what do I want my child to learn from it? From there just follow the path and you'll be making Unit Studies in no time.

For more information on Unit Studies:
Take a look at our "How to Teach Different Age Children at the Same Time" audio tape.  This excellent interview with Valerie Bendt explains how to put together unit studies that are fun and easy.  This interview is available on audio CD for only $8 (shipping is free).