Outer Space Project Approach Thematic Unit
Learning through play, exploration and discovery is the natural way a young child learns. Teaching academic content through a thematic project approach builds on natural curiosity and builds connectivity with all areas of academic learning.
What kid doesn’t love outer space! Using space as a vehicle of teaching will allow the learner to question, connect, problem-solve, communicate, research, inquire, reflect, and much more. Project, or thematic unit based learning allows content to be authentic — extending the learning beyond a classroom, beyond the home, beyond the community, beyond the nation —- even into the stars above.
Any subject can be selected to expand and connect learning. One of my favorites is Out in Space Thematic Unit. This unit immediately catches the interest of a child, increases motivation, attention span, and engagement.
I begin every thematic project-based unit with an exciting overview. This overview can be introduced by books, videos, or songs. Because the theme of space is so broad, and could actually span a few months of thematic study, I like to begin with a virtual field trip such as Solar System Scope. You can find many different options on youtube or through google.
From this point you can plan your unit into your desired areas of study, such as: History of space travel (Kids love learning about Ham the Chimp), life as an astronaut, the planets, the moon, stars, the solar system, aliens, and more. Make a plan of how you want to proceed, and which areas you want to explore and begin. Turn your learning space into well, space!
Click here to see my classroom project approach Outer Space Thematic Learning Laboratory — my Space Thematic Unit in action.
Check out some classroom photos of a space-theme in action.
Check out the great space content below that will bring the theme alive in your classroom.
If you love to teach with projects and thematic units like I do, you may want to take advantage of my Year-Long Mega Bundle Sale. This bundle is on sale now for $200. That is 42 Thematic Units for a little over $4 per unit. This is an incredible price! Bundle available on TPT.
