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4 Weeks Free Zoology Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

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If you wanted to take a zoology unit study and condense it into a 4-week study I have got you covered. Also, look at my page Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more unit studies.

I have topics broken down to cover different areas each week.

Instead of a boxed curriculum you will need only a notebook and to follow along with what I did in my planning.

4 Weeks Free Zoology Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

For example, I used The Anthology of Intriguing Animals, access to the internet for research and then added a few more good resource books.

You’ll want to create your own zoology notebook. The beauty of doing everything in the notebook is that it is full of your child’s own investigations, experiments, observations, drawings, and notes. It becomes a cherished keepsake.

And it can be used for records, and helps you keep some of the loose paper problems down.

Besides, it can be customized to fit your kids needs, ages, and even their style. Because it is so open ended it can be done with preschoolers right through high school.

ZOOLOGY BOOKS FOR KIDS

First, look at some of these other zoology resources.

8 Resources for Multiple Ages Who Love Learning About Zoology

I have listed curriculum help to fun hands-on manipulatives for little kids to games and books which even older learners will enjoy.

Realistic Mini Zoo Animal Figurines

This jungle animal figures set was made by hand painted with high realistically detailed appearance, cute face and childish eyes. Their uniquely molded textures and richly painted details make the animals vivid. Children would like to spend more time to observe and play with them.

Safari Ltd. Nature TOOB

THE BEST OF NATURE: Bring the wonder of the great outdoors into your home with the Nature Toob! Including a rabbit, beaver, doe, cardinal, gray wolf, fox, raccoon, black bear, moose, mountain lion, bald eagle, and a bison, this Toob has all kinds of unique animals that fly, hop and saunter!

Professor Noggin's Wildlife of North America Trivia Card Game

FUN FACTS: Journey through the Wildlife of North America discovering facts about our continent’s most interesting animals. From Polar Bears to Pronghorns, from Alligators to Bald Eagles, this game is perfect for young nature lovers.

Professor Noggin's World of Pets Trivia Card Game

Use Professor Noggin Pets card game as a fun way to learn about animals and as an opportunity to discuss the responsibility of owning a pet.

Books and

Photo Credit: campfirecurriculums.com

Through the Eyes of | A Zoologist

A unit study done really well if you want something put together.

All About Oceans - Marine Biology Handbook: 350 Activities - A Creative Unit Study Science, Research, Geography, Drawing & Language Arts

For kids interested in Marine Biologist and learning about interesting sea creatures like the Brittle Stars and aquatic mammals like the Fur Seal.

Endangered, Extinct & Legendary Animals | A Science & Research Handbook: Zoology & Cryptozoology

This is a creative research handbook for students ages 8-17 and up who love earning about extinct, endangered, and mysterious animals. This curriculum handbook is designed to help students study each animal using books, videos, internet, encyclopedias, and any other parent-approved learning tool.

The 100 Series: Biology Workbook—Grades 6-12 Science, Matter, Atoms, Cells, Genetics, Elements, Bonds,

Give your students the reinforcement they need with the 128-page comprehensive Biology Workbook for grades 6–12. Designed to aid in the review and practice of biology topics such as matter and atoms, cells, classifying animals, genetics, plant and animal structures, human body systems, and ecological relationships, this book includes realistic diagrams and engaging activities to support practice in all areas of
biology.

We also couldn’t do a zoology study without Nature Anatomy, Ocean Anatomy, and Wildlife Anatomy.

The photos alone are a treasure but they are also full of great information.

Then, look at how we planned each week.

Introduction to Zoology and Classification: Week 1

Vertebrates: Week 2

Invertebrates: Week 3

Animal Habitats and Adaptations: Week 4

INTRODUCTION TO ZOOLOGY AND CLASSIFICATION: WEEK 1

What is zoology? It is the scientific study of the behavior, structure, physiology, classification, and distribution of animals.

History of zoology: Learn about the development of zoology from early observations of the natural world to more formal scientific disciplines.

Highlight key figures and their contributions, and discuss how technological advancements have changed the field. Here is a wonderful list of Zoology Careers.

Animal classification (vertebrates vs. invertebrates): Introduce the division of the animal kingdom into vertebrates (animals with a backbone) and invertebrates (animals without a backbone).

Explore the characteristics of each group and provide examples of each. Discuss the importance of classification systems in organizing and understanding the relationships between different animal species.

Kingdoms of life: Broaden the scope to encompass the five (or sometimes six) kingdoms of life, emphasizing the place of animals within this larger biological framework.

INTRODUCTION TO ZOOLOGY AND CLASSIFICATION ACTIVITIES

Briefly describe the characteristics of each kingdom (Monera/Bacteria, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, Animalia) and discuss the relationships between them.

  • Begin a zoology notebook to track everything your child learns, see below for how to put one together easily.
  • Create an animal kingdom chart: Include a hands-on activity where learners create a visual representation of the animal kingdom. This could include classifying different animals based on their characteristics and placing them within a hierarchical chart.
  • Research famous zoologists: Assign research projects on notable zoologists throughout history. Encourage learners to explore their contributions to the field, the challenges they faced, and the impact of their work on our understanding of animals. Presentations or short reports can be used to share findings.
4 Weeks Free Zoology Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

Next, look at vertebrates week.

VERTEBRATES WEEK 2

Mammals: Explore the defining characteristics of mammals, including the presence of fur or hair, mammary glands, and warm-bloodedness. Discuss the diversity of mammalian orders and provide examples of animals in each group, highlighting their unique adaptations and habitats.

Birds: Investigate the features that characterize birds, such as feathers, wings, and the ability to lay hard-shelled eggs. Discuss the adaptations that enable flight and explore the variety of bird species, and their behaviors. Incorporate art projects like this How to Paint a Cardinal Bird With Kids

Reptiles: Examine the characteristics of reptiles, including scales, cold-bloodedness, and egg-laying (though some give birth to live young). Discuss the major groups of reptiles (such as snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodiles) and their adaptations to different environments. Make a realistic looking How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft.

Amphibians: Study the unique life cycle of amphibians, which typically involves both aquatic larval and terrestrial adult stages. Discuss their characteristics, such as smooth, moist skin and their dependence on water for reproduction. Explore the different types of amphibians, including frogs, toads, and salamanders.

Fish: Explore the world of fish, aquatic vertebrates with gills and fins. Discuss the different classes of fish (such as jawless fish, cartilaginous fish, and bony fish) and their adaptations to various aquatic environments, including freshwater and saltwater habitats.

VERTEBRATES ACTIVITIES

  • Study local birds: Encourage learners to observe and identify birds in their local environment. Provide resources such as field guides and binoculars. Discuss birdwatching techniques and the importance of respecting bird habitats.
  • Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests
  • Visit zoo’s, farms, aquariums: Organize a field trip to provide opportunities for observing a wide variety of vertebrate species. Encourage learners to take notes, sketch animals, and ask questions about their characteristics and behaviors. Take pictures and use them in their zoology journals.
  • Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop
4 Weeks Free Zoology Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

INVERTEBRATES WEEK 3

Insects: Explore the most diverse group of animals on Earth – the insects. Discuss their key characteristics, including a three-part body (head, thorax, abdomen), six legs, and often wings. Examine the different orders of insects and their adaptations to a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic habitats.

Arachnids: Investigate the characteristics of arachnids, such as spiders, scorpions, ticks, and mites. Discuss their eight legs and their adaptations for predation and survival. Explore the different types of arachnids and their ecological roles.

Mollusks: Study the diverse phylum of mollusks, which includes snails, slugs, clams, oysters, and squid. Discuss their soft bodies, often protected by a shell, and their various adaptations for feeding, locomotion, and respiration in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments.

4 Weeks Free Zoology Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

Crustaceans: Examine the characteristics of crustaceans, such as crabs, lobsters, shrimp, and barnacles. Discuss their hard exoskeletons, segmented bodies, and multiple pairs of appendages. Explore their diverse aquatic habitats and their importance in food webs.

Worms: Investigate the different phyla of worms, including segmented worms (like earthworms), roundworms, and flatworms. Discuss their basic body plans and their diverse roles in soil ecology, parasitism, and aquatic ecosystems.

INVERTEBRATES ACTIVITIES

  • Bug hunt in the garden: Organize a “bug hunt” in a garden or natural area. Provide learners with magnifying glasses and containers to collect and observe insects and other small invertebrates. Emphasize the importance of gentle handling and releasing the animals back into their habitat.
  • Build an ant farm (optional): Provide instructions and materials for building a simple ant farm to observe the behavior and social organization of ants. Discuss the different castes of ants and their roles within the colony. Ensure ethical treatment of the ants and proper disposal after observation.
  • Study different types of shells: Collect or provide a variety of mollusk shells for learners to examine. Discuss the different shapes, sizes, and colors of shells and how they relate to the animals that produced them and their environments.
  • Make a pitfall Insect Trap to capture and observe them in your yard.

ANIMAL HABITATS AND ADAPTATIONS WEEK 4

Deserts: Explore the characteristics of desert habitats, including low precipitation, extreme temperatures, and sparse vegetation. Discuss the remarkable adaptations of animals that live in deserts, such as nocturnal behavior, water conservation strategies, and specialized physical features.

Younger children will love to learn How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play.

Rainforests: Investigate the characteristics of rainforest habitats, including high rainfall, warm temperatures, and dense vegetation.

Discuss the incredible biodiversity of rainforests and the adaptations of animals that live in these complex ecosystems, such as camouflage, arboreal lifestyles, and specialized diets.

Oceans: Explore the vast and diverse marine environment.

Also, discuss the different zones of the ocean and the unique challenges and adaptations of animals that live in saltwater habitats, including adaptations for buoyancy, pressure tolerance, and different feeding strategies.

ANIMAL HABITATS AND ADAPTATIONS ACTIVITIES

Arctic regions: Examine the characteristics of Arctic and other cold-climate habitats, including low temperatures, ice cover, and seasonal changes in daylight. Discuss the adaptations of animals that live in these harsh environments, such as thick fur or blubber, hibernation, and migration.

Animal adaptations: Focus on the general concept of adaptation – the evolutionary process by which animals develop traits that enhance their survival and reproduction in specific environments. Discuss different types of adaptations, including structural, physiological, and behavioral adaptations, and provide examples across various animal groups and habitats.

  • Create dioramas of different habitats: Engage learners in creating three-dimensional models (dioramas) of different animal habitats. Encourage them to research the specific characteristics of each habitat and the animals that live there, and to use various materials to represent the environment and its inhabitants.
  • Research animal camouflage: Assign research projects on animal camouflage as a specific type of adaptation. Learners can explore different forms of camouflage, such as crypsis, mimicry, and disruptive coloration, and provide examples of animals that use these strategies for protection or predation.
  • Write a report on an endangered species: Assign research projects on endangered animal species from different habitats.

4 Week Free Watermelon Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

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I have a 4 week free watermelon unit study including many hands-on activities. Also, look at my page Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more unit studies.

Watermelons are more than just delicious; they can be used as a wonderful summer theme with plenty of uses.

For example, you can learn math, science, art, and practical life skills. There are books, games, stickers, and all kinds of watermelon theme resources to use.

4 Week Free Watermelon Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

Also, diving into the biology of a watermelon and the life cycle of the plant is a fun summer study.

In addition, you can learn about the watermelon in cultures around the world. Too, learn about the nutrition and health impact of watermelon.

And I have plenty of ideas and hands-on activities to try.

RESOURCES AND BOOKS ABOUT WATERMELON FOR KIDS

Next, look at these books to add to your unit study.

5 Watermelon Books & Resources

Add these fun books about seeds, gardening and watermelons. You can use them for a unit study or add to your home library.

Watermelon, Watermelon

"Watermelon, Watermelon" is a delightful sing-along book by award-winning songwriter and music therapist Stephanie Leavell. Perfect for ages 1-7, this rhythmic and catchy story is based on Stephanie's beloved children's song. The book features bright, captivating illustrations by Sarah Pilar Echeverria, making it an engaging read that young children will request again and again.

Food Anatomy: The Curious Parts & Pieces of Our Edible World

Julia Rothman starts with an illustrated history of food and ends with a global tour of street eats. Along the way, Rothman serves up a hilarious primer on short-order egg lingo and a mouthwatering menu of how people around the planet serve fried potatoes–and what we dip them in.Award-winning food journalist Rachel Wharton lends her expertise to this light-hearted exploration of everything food that bursts with little-known facts and delightful drawings

The Watermelon Seed

Crocodile loves watermelon, but what will happen when his greatest fear of swallowing a watermelon seed comes to pass? Will vines sprout out his ears? Will his skin turn pink? Only one thing is certain: his wild imagination will have kids laughing out loud and begging for another read.

Where the Watermelons Grow

When twelve-year-old Della Kelly finds her mother furiously digging black seeds from a watermelon in the middle of the night and talking to people who aren't there, Della worries that it’s happening again—that the sickness that put her mama in the hospital four years ago is back. That her mama is going to be hospitalized for months like she was last time.

With her daddy struggling to save the farm and her mama in denial about what’s happening, it’s up to Della to heal her mama for good. And she knows just how she’ll do it: with a jar of the Bee Lady’s magic honey, which has mended the wounds and woes of Maryville, North Carolina, for generations.

Bananagrams Word-a-Melon: Family-Fun Word Search Game for Kids Age 6+

  • WORDY-FUN: Word-a-Melon is the family-fun word search game by Bananagrams
  • FLIP THOSE TILES: Take turns rolling the die, flipping the cardboard letter chips and creating words with the overturned letters
  • USE YOUR MELON: Unused letters are flipped back over so players must be sure to remember where they are!

Then, look at these ideas for a 4 week watermelon themed unit study.

WATERMELON BASICS WEEK 1

6 Watermelon Facts

  • A watermelon is 92% water.
  • Every part of the watermelon is edible from the rind, to the seeds, to the flesh.
  • It is technically both a fruit and a vegetable.
  • The world’s heaviest watermelon weighed over 350 pounds.
  • There are over 1200 varieties of watermelon worldwide.
  • Some Japanese farmers grow watermelon in cube-shaped containers.

Next, look at these math and science activities.

4 Week Free Watermelon Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

MATH & SCIENCE WEEK 2

  • Practice counting and measuring with watermelons- use cloth measuring tapes for circumference, rulers for height and width, a simple scale to compare weight. Count the seeds inside.
  • Explore the density and buoyancy of watermelon by floating it in a small pool or tub.

ART & LITERATURE WEEK 3

Finally, look at some ideas about cooking.

COOKING & NUTRITION WEEK 4

  • Research the nutritional benefits of watermelons, then read the packaging on watermelon juices, fruit roll ups, and other watermelon flavored items to compare the nutrition labels.
  • Learn How to pick the perfect watermelon, this is a great natural step for life skills.
  • Make watermelon juice or smoothies.
  • Create a watermelon salsa, salad, or this Watermelon Fries recipe with a yummy coconut lime dip.
  • Discuss food safety when handling fruits.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

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I have a free 4-week Minn of the Mississippi unit study for kids. Look at these other Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more ideas and topics for hands-on learning.

I can’t wait to share this free 4-week Minn of the Mississippi unit study with you.

It is full of wonderful geography, science, language arts and more.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

This children’s book by Holling C. Holling follows the journey of a snapping turtle named Minn as she makes her way down the Mississippi River.

First, Minn’s journey starts at the headwaters of the Mississippi River in Lake Itasca, Minnesota.

Then, her travels continue onto the Gulf of Mexico and she is eventually set free in Bayou Barataria near New Orleans, Louisiana.

The Mississippi River has the third largest drainage basin in the world, exceeded in size only by the watersheds of the Amazon and Congo Rivers.

It drains 41 percent of the 48 contiguous states of the United States.

Another point is that it allows for a great unit study that covers geography like map work and science topics such as animal study, environments like the river basin, ecology, and of course plenty of opportunity for language arts activities. 

Too, you can easily use it as inspiration for art lessons as well.

Also, the book is recommended for ages 8-12 but I think it is very adaptable for a little younger or a little older with a few adjustments.

Living books are still a fantastic resource for your middle school kid, don’t exclude that age just yet.

First, you’ll need to grab your own copy.

Minn of the Mississippi

The book teaches geography, history, and earth sciences through an engaging story.

Minn of the Mississippi

The history of the Mississippi River Valley is told in text and pictures through the adventures of Minn, a snapping turtle, as she travels downstream.

Then, look at these math and language arts activities.

MATH & LANGUAGE ARTS MINN OF THE MISSISSIPPI UNIT STUDY WEEK 1

Next, this language arts activity is naturally built into the unit, it is simply to read aloud or have your child read the book independently.

Let’s work on print or cursive writing, wherever your child is and practice writing lines from the book.

Additionally, let your child choose a few sentences and use it as copywork.

In addition, review those vocabulary words!

It takes approximately 25 years for the story of Minn from the headwaters to the bayou in a Louisiana swamp.

 For younger children, talk about seasons, how many days in a week, month, year? Weeks in a year, etc…

Have your child look up the definition and copy it down for each of the following vocabulary words below.

  • Suspense
  • Rapids
  • Shimmering
  • Shallow
  • Deserted
  • Have students use the scale on a map to measure distances between key locations along the river. For example, calculate the distance between cities like Minneapolis and New Orleans.
  • For your young learners, have them keep a tally sheet of animals found along Minn’s journey.

SCIENCE MINN OF THE MISSISSIPPI UNIT STUDY WEEK 2

Play Professor Noggins Reptiles and Amphibians, this game is amazing for families to play together as each card offers questions of varying difficulties.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

Learn more about the Mississippi River by building a river model that includes characteristics unique to the mighty Mississippi.

This activity can be done over the course of a day or the whole week.

Have your child choose a river creature, like one mentioned in the book and research it. They can show you what they have learned via paper, or a diorama like this one about the Everglades.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

Create a reusable felt food pyramid that can be pulled out and used to demonstrate the food chain in any habitat. For this one we will focus on river creatures. See below for the full instructions.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

Food chain pyramids are five levels, known as trophic levels.  

SCIENCE WEEK 2

  • Producers: First level, at the bottom which includes pond plants and trees that drop their leaves that break down into the water. For example, trees, lily pads, and underwater plants.
  • Primary consumers:Second level from the bottom is made up of herbivores that eat mainly plants. River primary consumers are freshwater crabs, snails, and insects.
  • Secondary consumers: The third level from the bottom is  carnivores that eat herbivores, in our case frogs, fish, snakes, turtles.
  • Tertiary consumers: The fourth level up, made up of carnivores that eat other carnivores-raccoons and river otters.
  • Quaternary consumers: The fifth and final level at the top is made up of apex predators with no natural predators. For example this includes large predatory fish, alligators, and large birds like Herons.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY MINN OF THE MISSISSIPPI UNIT STUDY WEEK 3

Have your child locate and trace the Mississippi River on a map with their finger or a marker. This map of the river with town names gives a great overview of the path.

Or you can trace it along a scrunch map, these come in handy for a simple portable geography resource.

  • Then Build a River Model with the help of this video that demonstrates how water moves along the river system
  • In the story Minn is picked up and looked after by a Chipewa (Ojibwe) child, learn more about them with this book and recreate a wigwam, the style of homes that they lived in.

The headwaters of the Mississippi River start at Lake Itasca in Itasca State Park in Minnesota.

Find Minnesota on the map and have your child research some basic geographical facts about it using books or Google.

  • Abbreviation:MN
  • Capital:St. Paul
  • Biggest City: Minneapolis
  • Nickname:The North Star State
  • State Bird: Common Loon

Learn about what a river is and the parts of a river. A river is a body of water that flows across the land, usually starting from a high point, such as a mountain, and ending at a lower point, such as a lake or the ocean.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY STUDY WEEK 3

  • Riverbanks-Riverbanks are the sides of a river. Riverbanks can be made of different materials, such as sand, gravel, or rock.
  • Source-The source of a river is the place where it begins. This could be a spring, a glacier, or a lake. The source is often located at a high point, such as a mountain.
  • Tributaries-Tributaries are smaller rivers or streams that flow into a larger river. Tributaries help to increase the flow of water in the river and can also bring in sediment and nutrients.
  • Main Channel-The main channel of a river is the deepest and widest part of the river. This is where the water flows the fastest.
  • Floodplain-The floodplain is the area of land that is next to a river. The floodplain is often flooded during heavy rains or when the river overflows its banks.
  • Meanders-Meanders are bends in a river. Meanders are formed when the water in a river flows around obstacles, such as rocks or trees.
  • Oxbow Lakes-Oxbow lakes are crescent-shaped lakes that are formed when a meander is cut off from the main channel of a river.
  • Delta-A delta is a fan-shaped area of land that is formed at the mouth of a river. Deltas are formed when the sediment that is carried by the river is deposited in the ocean.
  • Estuary-An estuary is a wide, often funnel-shaped, mouth of a river where the seawater mixes with the freshwater from the river.
Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

ARTS & CRAFTS MINN OF THE MISSISSIPPI UNIT STUDY WEEK 4

Draw or paint  a model of a river system with watercolor, markers, or crayons.

A great art and geography as well as science lesson all rolled into one.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

OTHER BEST UNIT STUDIES

Felt River Food Pyramid

You will need:

  • 5 sheets of felt-various colors
  • Plastic river animals
  • Scissors
  • Glue gun/sticks
  • Ruler
Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

First, for the main piece that will serve as a base I recommend using a larger piece of felt , like  the 12×18 sheets.

Measure a triangle 12 in across by 16 to 18 in tall using a ruler and pencil.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

Cut out the triangle.

To create the different levels of the pyramid layer smaller pieces of felt behind it line them up where you would like them to be in Trace with a pencil.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

Cut each level out leaving them slightly wider than the base piece.

Hot glue each strip down into its proper position.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

Flip the entire thing over and trim everything up nicely and evenly with your scissors.

Free 4 Week Minn of the Mississippi Unit Study

Now have your child layer each of the river animals where they fall on the food pyramid using whatever plastic animals you have on hand or you can print animals off the internet, cut out magazines, or use flashcards.

4 Week Free China Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

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I have a free 4-week China unit study for kids. Look at these other Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more ideas and topics for hands-on learning.

China is one of the world’s oldest civilizations.

So, this unit study for multiple ages is geared toward Ancient China.

4 Week Free China Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

In addition, we are focusing on China’s rich history, culture, food, animals, inventions, and landmarks.

However, because this is a multiple age study topics like the Opium Wars and the philosophical views of Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism I feel are for older students.

Too, I will list famous people in history which will give your children a feel for the period.

ANCIENT CHINA BOOKS FOR KIDS

First, living books and picture books bring this period to life.

When possible, I try to always include reading of living books. Then I add reference books to our list.

12 Books & Resources For Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read to About Ancient China

Add some of these books to your home library about Ancient China. Also, use them for a homeschool unit study.

Zheng He, The Great Chinese Explorer: A Bilingual Story of Adventure and Discovery

In the West, legendary explorers like Christopher Columbus, Ernest Shackleton and Sir Edmund Hillary are a recognized part of our history. But in China, that legend belongs to the great explorer Zheng He (1371–1433), who lived during China's renowned Ming Dynasty. Zheng He, the Great Chinese Explorer is a bilingual (English and Chinese) tale of his adventures.

When he was a child, Zheng He dreamed of foreign lands, his imagination was inspired by the travels of his father and grandfather and the wonderful items they brought back from trading trips to the West. A simple but exotic porcelain vase in cobalt, a color not found in China at the time, drove Zheng He to discover the origins of this unique color—and become one of the most famous explorers in China's history.

Chee-Lin: A Giraffe's Journey

Eighty years before Columbus, China sent ships to explore the world.The Chinese discovered many marvelous things, but one discovery stood out above the others: the chee-lin.This chee-lin was just a giraffe, but to the Chinese it was an omen of good fortune so rare that it had appeared only once before—at the birth of Confucius.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

A Time Magazine 100 Best Fantasy Books of All Time selection!​A Reader’s Digest Best Children’s Book of All Time​!This stunning fantasy inspired by Chinese folklore is a companion novel to Starry River of the Sky and the New York Times bestselling and National Book Award finalist When the Sea Turned to SilverIn the valley of Fruitless mountain, a young girl named Minli lives in a ramshackle hut with her parents. In the evenings, her father regales her with old folktales of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man on the Moon, who knows the answers to all of life's questions. Inspired by these stories, Minli sets off on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man on the Moon to ask him how she can change her family's fortune. She encounters an assorted cast of characters and magical creatures along the way, including a dragon who accompanies her on her quest for the ultimate answer.Grace Lin, author of the beloved Year of the Dog and Year of the Rat returns with a wondrous story of adventure, faith, and friendship. A fantasy crossed with Chinese folklore, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a timeless story reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz and Kelly Barnhill's The Girl Who Drank the Moon. Her beautiful illustrations, printed in full-color, accompany the text throughout. Once again, she has created a charming, engaging book for young readers.

Science and Scientists (True Stories From Ancient China)

Ancient China has a long history of scientific excellence. Learn more about some of China’s greatest scientific wonders and the scientists who studied them. Features stories about astronomy, seismology, mathematics, calendar-making, and geography.

The Warlord's Beads (Warlord's Series)

Clever Chuan devises a simple way for his father to quickly and accurately count all the warlord's treasure.

The Five Chinese Brothers (Paperstar)

The classic picture book about five clever brothers, each with a different extraordinary ability, has been in print for almost 80 years."An original nonsense tale told with...spirit and gusto." -- The Horn Book

The Great Wall Of China (Aladdin Picture Books)

Angela FIsher's The Great Wall is an "awe-inspiring, impressive, black and gray illustrations set the tone for this history of the building of the Great Wall of China." (School Library Journal)

The Story about Ping

No one can deny the appeal of the book's hero, Ping, the spirited little duck who lives on a boat on the Yangtze River. Ping's misadventures one night while exploring the world around his home form the basis of this timeless classic, which is brought to life by Kurt Wiese's warm and poignant illustrations.

In the Forbidden City (We All Live in the Forbidden City)

Serving as the seat of imperial power for six centuries, the Forbidden City is one of China's most famous and enigmatic landmarks. Accompanied by a mischievous cat, readers will tour this colossal architectural structure, discovering the secrets hidden inside the palace walls. They will encounter the people who have walked through its halls and gardens, including emperors, empresses, and rebel leaders, and hear exciting tales about the power struggles and intrigues of everyday life.This large format book conveys the grandeur of the Forbidden City through highly detailed line drawings of its buildings, gardens, and courtyards with numerous fold-out spreads. Each page is populated by a large variety of characters and peppered with entertaining anecdotes. Every book includes a plastic magnifying glass for looking at the drawings more closely."Readers receive a lavish tour of the Forbidden City, once home to Chinese emperors and now a museum, courtesy of Chiu and the Design and Cultural Studies Workshop, which he founded. Delicate line drawings highlight the architectural intricacies of the nearly 178-acre complex (several foldout spreads emphasize its size) while Chiu examines the Ming and Qing dynasties in thorough detail, along with major events in the palace's history. (In one foldout scene, 24 emperors offer pithy, even brusque notes on their reigns — "I was entirely unaccomplished," says Emperor Longqing.) A magnifying glass is wisely included to help readers appreciate the wealth of visual detail." — Publishers Weekly

The Emperor Who Built The Great Wall

DID YOU KNOW that China was named after its first emperor – the brilliant, all-powerful emperor who built The Great Wall? In this book, discover why he started building the Wall, how he made China the biggest country on earth, and what treasures he hid in his secret tomb. Find out how he became one of the most important people in the history of China. Read all about the first emperor’s fascinating life in The Emperor Who Built The Great Wall.The simple language and beautiful illustrations make this book a wonderful reader or bedtime story. It is suitable for all ages, but children aged six to twelve years will especially enjoy reading this book.~ About the ONCE UPON A TIME IN CHINA… Series ~China has a long history, but its many stories are often too complex for children. In this series, Jillian Lin retells China’s best historical tales so they are easy and fun to read. Children will embark on a journey through time where they will get a glimpse inside the colorful lives of famous Chinese figures. Beautiful illustrations, gripping stories, and fascinating facts make these books wonderful readers or bedtime stories for ages six and above. Other titles in this series include:The King Without A Throne (Confucius)The Mountain Man Of Music (Zhu Zaiyu)The Miracle Doctor (Hua Tuo)The Girl Who Became Emperor (Wu Zetian)The Dreamer Of Stars (Zhang Heng)The Greatest Explorer In The World (Zheng He)The Pirate King (Koxinga/Zheng Chenggong)

Where Is the Great Wall?

More than two thousand years ago, with his land under constant attack from nomads, the First Emperor of China came up with a simple solution: build a wall to keep out enemies. It was a wall that kept growing and growing. But its construction came at a huge cost: it is believed that more than a million Chinese died building it, earning the wall its nickname--the longest cemetery on earth. Through the story of the wall, Patricia Brennan Demuth is able to tell the story of China itself, the rise and fall of dynasties, the greatness of its culture, and its present-day status as a Communist world power.

DK Eyewitness Books: Ancient China: Discover the History of Imperial China―from the Great Wall to the Days of the La

A spectacular and informative guide to the history of the great Chinese empire and the customs and traditions of its people.  Stunning real-life photographs and lifelike models offer a unique "eyewitness" view of life in imperial China, from its earliest beginnings in the Bronze Age to its final years in the early 20th century. See the stunning bronze work of the ancient Chinese and the beautiful techniques used for Chinese calligraphy. Learn why the First Emperor created the Terracotta Army, what kinds of goods were carried along the Silk Route, who invented paper, and much, much more. 

Let’s dive into some of the history and geography.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY CHINA UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 1

First, here are a few of the major dynasties:

  • Xia Dynasty
  • Shang Dynasty
  • Zhou Dynasty
  • Qin Dynasty
  • Han Dynasty

Besides the many fascinating dynasties that have existed in China, there are many beautiful geographical landmarks.

  • The History Unboxed -Ancient China Unboxed is affordable and includes some really neat information as well as hands on activities like -Coloring the Great Wall, excavate your own ancient Chinese replica artifact, taste an ancient preparation of tea, decorate and fly an ancient style of kite, and making a magnetic compass.
  • Also, for younger kids look at this fun printable All About China book. Scroll to the bottom for the free pdf link.

GEOGRAPHICAL FEATURES OF CHINA

  • Yellow River (Huang He). The second-longest river in China.
  • Yangtze River. The longest river in China and Asia.
  • Great Wall of China. It wasn’t just a wall but a fortification to protect them from invasions.
  • Himalayas. The highest mountain range in the world.
  • Gobi Desert. A large desert in northern China and southern Mongolia.

And here are some historical people to research.

Confucius, Qin Shi Huang, Laozi, Zheng He and although not really ancient, Qiu Jin is celebrated as a heroine.

Marco Polo traveled along the Silk Road in the 13th century and wrote about his adventures in China. We did a whole unit study about him.

NATURE & SCIENCE CHINA UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 2

Another fun topic to discuss about their contributions to inventions.

For example, there is paper, a compass, gunpowder, and silk.

Also, learn about some of the animals and plants and trees in China.

MATH & LANGUAGE ARTS CHINA UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 3

Also, look at these hands-on math and language arts ideas.

  • Build the Wall of China. We did ours with paper. Look at my post How To Make The Great Wall Of China Out Of Paper. But measure the length and width and calculate how long it will need to stretch across your dining room table.
  • Investigate Ancient Chinese currency like the bronze coin and cowry shells.
  • Research about the Chinese calendar which is a lunar calendar and compare with the Gregorian calendar.
  • Read ancient Chinese folktales like The Monkey King and The Legend of Mulan. Look at this Paper Doll Mulan Craft for Kids.
  • Comparing Ancient Chinese and Western Literary works.
4 Week Free China Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

ARTS & CRAFTS CHINA UNIT STUDY WEEK 4

Finally, look at some of these fun arts and crafts to do along your unit study.

A lot of Ancient China then like now is rural.

However, China was home to some of the most advanced cities on earth.

Not only did they excel in architect like the monasteries but their people learned poetry, how to play a musical instrument and performed beautiful dances.

What part of Ancient China are you focusing on?

Free 4-Week Kid’s Australia Unit Study Who Love Hands-on Learning

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I have a free 4-week Australia Unit Study for kids. Look at these other Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more ideas and topics for hands-on learning. Also, look at my page Hands-On Simple And Best Homeschool Geography Ideas & Tips for more fun hands-on geography.

From the Sydney Opera House, with its distinctive sail-like design to the home of kangaroos, koalas, and the platypus to the stunning Great Barrier Reef there is no shortage of topics to learn.

The beauty of unit studies is not only combining subjects but teaching multiple ages of children.

Free 4-Week Kid’s Australia Unit Study Who Love Hands-on Learning

Additionally, teaching all your children together means you can discuss the same topic but it’s the activity that is chosen which makes it age appropriate.

For example, if you’re teaching language arts, your younger children can do copywork while your older children draft an essay or learn figurative language.

Today, I have topic ideas and activities for Australian history, geography, nature and even math and language arts.

Remember too with unit studies you can use any curriculum to supplement.

To illustrate, some unit study themes may be more science oriented or history oriented. So don’t force a fit with other subjects.

Many times if we lack math or language arts, we can supplement with ready made already on hand.

By not forcing a fit with a topic it makes the unit study more natural for what interests your child.

BOOKS ABOUT AUSTRALIA FOR KIDS

First, look at this list of living books I rounded up and we love.

Living books are my go-to for unit studies. They teach facts in a story form.

9 Australia Books for Kids Who Love to Read and Be Read To

Grab one or two of these books about Australia to add to your unit study or your home library.

The Upside-down History of Down Under

The true story of Australia starts with a piece of land that went for a swim. Millions of years ago it floated away from Africa. Very, very, slowly. It was home to dinosaurs and giant animals, until the first Australians showed up and got comfortable. This wild and wonderful land was a mystery to the rest of the world. Then the English decided to make it the biggest jail ever . . . Experience the story of Australia from prehistory to federation in 1901.

Storm Boy & Other Stories

Set along the rugged beauty of the South Australian coast, Storm Boy cares for an injured pelican and finds a friend that shows him the power of loyalty and love. This moving story is now a major motion-picture and one of the classics of Australian writing for children. This edition comes with five other stories by Colin Thiele that capture the unique voices of Australians across the natural and suburban landscape.

Seven Little Australians

A captain who has lost his wife remarries a much younger woman to provide his six children with a new mother. Together, the couple had another child, making seven. The captain tries to run the family with stern discipline, but he is no match for the fun-loving children.

Warrigal the Warrior

The story of a killer-dog. His owner had tried to train him to the domestic life, but the call of the wild and his hunting instincts were too powerful. As a killer he roamed abroad, hunted fiercely by farmers whose stock he wantonly destroyed. It is a story that is founded in fact.As for Warrigal -- he is as nature fashioned him.“I have not sought to glorify Warrigal, neither have I condemned him. I have just tried to present him as he really is, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.”

Audrey of the Outback

Meet Audrey Barlow - a girl with a lot on her mind. Her dad has gone away to work, her brother Price thinks he's too old for games, and little Dougie likes pretending to be a bird. So together with her best friend Stumpy, Audrey ponders some of life's big questions ... like whether being a swaggie is lonelier than being a girl, and whether it's better to be a sheep or a cow. Follow Audrey and Stumpy through this dazzler of a story and discover how friends are never far away ... even in the Outback. You'll soon wish you lived there too.

A Little Bush Maid

Billabong, a large cattle and sheep property in the Australian countryside, is home to 12-year-old Norah Linton, her widowed father, David, and her older brother, Jim. Norah's prim and proper aunts, who live in the city, consider she is in danger of "growing up wild" - riding all over Billabong on her beloved pony, Bobs, helping with mustering, and joining in on all the holiday fun when Jim and his friends come home from boarding school.

A fishing trip results in unexpected drama when they discover a mysterious stranger camped in the bush. Who is this stranger and why is he there? Norah's resourcefulness is tested to the full!

Rabbit-Proof Fence: 1000 Headwords

Fourteen-year-old Molly and her cousins Daisy and Gracie were mixed-race Aborigines. In 1931 they were taken away from their families and sent to a camp to be trained as good 'white' Australians. They were told to forget their mothers, their language, their home.But Molly would not forget. She and her cousins escaped and walked back to Jigalong, 1,600 kilometres away, following the rabbit-proof fence as their guide across the desert.This is the story of that walk, told by Molly's daughter, Doris. 

Are We There Yet?

Join Grace and her family as they hit the road camping, experiencing, and meeting all the people and places that make up Australia.

Possum Magic

Grandma Poss uses her best bush magic to make Hush invisible. But when Hush longs to be able to see herself again, the two possums must make their way across Australia to find the magic food that will make Hush visible once more. “Another treat from Mem Fox that is sure to be treasured. The whimsical illustrations are a wonderful complement.

Next, look at these ideas about history and geography.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY AUSTRALIA UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 1

When I list ideas, I think of ways you can include multiple ages of kids.

And when possible, give you ideas.

  • List the 6 states and territories as an introduction. 1. New South Wales: Capital city is Sydney 2. Queensland: Capital city is Brisbane 3. Tasmania: Capital City is Hobart 4. Western Australia: Capital City is Perth 5. Victoria: Capital City is Melbourne 6. South Australia: Capital City is Adelaide. There are two territories the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory.
  • Investigate the area known as The Outback.
  • Understand that the country name is the Commonwealth of Australia. Australia is an independent but has strong ties to Britain.
  • 1851 Gold is discovered and many miners in California head for Australia.
  • Learn landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Kakadu National Park, Daintree Rainforest, Sydney Harbour Bridge,Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Great Barrier Reef
  • The Aborigines were the first inhabitants of mainland Australia and the Torres Strait Islanders were people who originally inhabited the 270+ islands north of Australia in the Torres Strait
  • British settlers arrived in Australia in 1788.
  • What two animals are on the Australian Coat of Arms? Kangaroo and Emu.
  • Learn about who was Dutch navigator Willem Janzoon. He was the first European to make recorded contact with and map part of the Australian continent.
Free 4-Week Kid’s Australia Unit Study Who Love Hands-on Learning

Also, for week 2 look at these nature and science ideas to study this week.

NATURE & SCIENCE AUSTRALIA UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 2

Next, Australia is diverse. There are deserts, rainforests, and savannas to explore.

  • 6 Australian Animal Craft Ideas | Easy Paper Bag Platypus
  •  Make a Fun Edible Great Barrier Coral Reef
  • The 7 foot high emu is Australia’s largest bird.
  • Melbourne Zoo is one of the top zoos in the world.
  • Define marsupial: Marsupial is an animal that has a pouch, and the mother carries her baby in her pouch as it grows over time.
  • Australia is in the south hemisphere. How does that affect the seasons? If it’s fall here, it spring there.
  • The Great Barrier Reef is a chain of more than 2,500 reefs and many small islands.

  • The Tasmanian Devil is a carnivorous marsupial found only in Tasmania.
  • Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest rainforest in the world. Explore the flora and fauna.
Free 4-Week Kid’s Australia Unit Study Who Love Hands-on Learning

MATH & LANGUAGE ARTS AUSTRALIA UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 3

  • Convert prices from AUD to another currency (like USD or EUR)

ARTS & CRAFTS AUSTRALIA UNIT STUDY WEEK 4

Finally, we tend to build on unit studies each year which is why we love them.

What are you studying about in Australia?