How to Choose Thematic Units for a Classroom

Thematic units are a great way to cover a variety of skills and topics in the elementary classroom in unique and interesting ways. Thematic units combine reading, writing, social studies and sometimes math and science around a particular theme. Use these units as supplements to regular grade-level outcomes, during certain times of the year or as a focused study at the end of a particular skill unit.

Instructions

1. Look at your calendar of events for the school year. Think about what times of the year a thematic unit would be appropriate. Holidays, Black History Month, Women's History Month or National Reading Month are all good times.

2. Choose a time period that works well with the school calendar. Thematic units are great to use at the end of a unit, before a holiday or as an ongoing project over the span of a few weeks.

3. Think about your grade-level outcomes and how the curriculum is designed to achieve those outcomes. Thematic units that meet district benchmarks can be used as long as they meet the criteria and goals for your grade level.

4. Talk to music and art teachers about their curriculum. See if there are any times during the school year when you can teach a thematic unit that will coincide with what they are studying.

5. Discuss thematic units with your team of teachers. Choose a unit that can culminate in some type of special program or celebration for parents. Most thematic units encourage art projects, writing projects or other ways to demonstrate student achievement and are great ways to build an evening presentation.

6. Research thematic units available on the Internet. The Internet is a great way for teachers to share resources. Many excellent thematic units have been built within classrooms, and teachers are always eager to share what works well with students.