The Lessonologist loves using unit studies while teaching the core academic subjects to students enrolled in learning pods. Unit studies are a theme based approach to learning that provides students with relevant content and hands-on experiences that make learning fun. Students have the opportunity to learn about a topic in depth while learning required concepts. Children are also provided with opportunities to make choices about the topics that will be studied.
Benefits of Unit Studies
Unit studies offer many benefits that enhance a student’s education. They can be used in all academic areas which increases learning as students are engaged in topics that interest them. This also helps students to understand that the required subjects are interrelated, and they begin to see the big picture. Unit studies also add a variety of learning experiences to the school day that enhance learning.
Unit studies work well for multiple age groups with different skill levels. They also allow special needs students and those with different learning styles to participate with the group. Students work together while doing research about the topic. This collaboration teaches students to participate in academic discussions and to learn critical thinking and problem solving skills. Unit studies should lead students to ask questions and engage in further independent research in topics that interest them.
This Year’s Unit Study Plan
The Lessonologist has chosen the topic of dogs for this year’s first session as she recently adopted a cocker spaniel puppy. During the first session students will learn how unit studies work for our pods, and then will have input for the rest of the year’s topics. Students begin the unit with a video party to learn about the topic. They will take notes, write questions, and determine the possible sub-topics they might explore.
The Lessonologist will create the framework and lesson plans for the unit study. Students will read literary works while practicing core reading skills. Students learn communication skills while writing about research they have completed on line and using library materials. The math curriculum will be followed, but problems may be adjusted to relate to the topic giving students opportunities to apply those concepts to real life situations. Following the conclusion of the unit, the Lessonologist and students will evaluate what was accomplished and then choose the next topic.
While there is much work put into creating a unit study, it is worth the effort as students will retain the knowledge they have gained. The long term goal is to create life-long learners who choose to excel academically and to learn on their own.
~ Pauline