The Unit Study Approach To Education

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There are several different approaches for teaching your children to be productive, educated learners. Today we’re going to find out more about the Unit Study Approach.

A Unit Study takes one topic or unit of study and combines different subjects to revolve around and tie into that topic. It can include language arts, science, history, geography, math and fine arts. Instead of studying several unrelated subjects, all subjects are included in a common theme or project.

There are three main options for doing the unit study approach:

1. You can purchase a complete unit study.
2. You can use a prepared topical guide.
3. You can create your own unit study from scratch.

There are no set rules for doing a unit study. They can be planned for a long range study such as a complete yearly unit study or they can be shortened by using a topical study guide. Most subjects are covered by studying one topic at a time and study materials usually involve the reading of books. The unit studies approach also usually includes several hands-on activities.

Questions to ask yourself before choosing the unit study approach:

1. Are you a fairly creative person or do you like everything laid out for you?
2. Is it important for you to try to make learning interesting and fun or are you interested in just completing the assigned projects and assignments?
3. Do your children have a variety of interests and different learning styles?
4. Do you have the desire to be the creative force behind the development of the unit studies?

What are the strengths of the unit study approach?

• The unit study approach allows for a more in-depth study and greater understand of a topic.
• Because of its hands-on approach and the reading of real books, children can retain and apply what they have learned.
• This approach helps to develop curiosity and independent thinking.
• Unit studies are fairly easy to create and all ages can learn together.

What are the weaknesses of the unit study approach?

• Do-it-yourself unit studies require teacher planning time.
• Prepared unit study curricula can be expensive.
• Teacher may feel uncertainty that all subjects are being covered.
• If you’re used to giving grades, it may seem harder to track accomplishments.

You’ll discover that every teaching approach has its strengths and weaknesses. The key is discovering which approach fits best with your family’s lifestyle and will help you and your family to stay focused and consistent.

*Discover more about Choosing the Best Learning Approach For Your Family.