Have you been thinking about using literature-based units of study in your classroom? This guide to using literature-based units of study may answer your questions.
Definition of Literature-Based Units of Study
First, let’s define a literature-based unit of study. A literature-based unit of study are lessons made from a single or a series of books. Lessons in the following areas of study may be included:
- Language Arts
- Mathematic
- Science
- Social Studies
- Art
- Music
Choosing the Right Book
Secondly, and most importantly you need to pick a great book for your literature-based unit. This book needs to capture your children’s imagination. Consider the following when picking that right book:
- Child’s interests & needs
- Learning objectives
- Short, quick read
- Offers room for theme exploration
- Opens lesson possibilities
- Makes connections to real world
- Assessment opportunities
Elements of a Literature-Based Unit of Study
Then, there are many elements to include when using a literature-based unit of study. These aspects should be considered:
- Learning Objectives: Skills children will learn throughout unit
- Age of Child: Literature chosen appropriate for child’s age or development
- Literature Elements & Vocabulary: Characters, Setting, Problem/Solution, Literature Type, Vocabulary list
- Discussion & Questions: List of questions about literature chosen to drive conversation
- Related Literature: Other books that have the same theme or genre
- Time Limit: Time needed to complete unit
- Lesson Development: Activities and centers that can be used to meet the learning objectives in the areas of study chosen
- Materials: Supplies needed to complete unit
- Assessments: Evaluation tools to measure student growth of chosen learning objectives
Literature-Based Units of Study Examples
Through literature-based units of study you can bring wonderful literature into your classroom. Some literature-based unit suggestions by month:
- August: A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee
- September: Pete the Cat and His Groovy Buttons
- October: Go Away Big Green Monster
- November: Turkey Trouble
- December: A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree
- January: Snowmen at Night
- February: Love Splat
- March: How to Catch a Leprechaun
- April: The Earth Book
- May: From Caterpillar to Butterfly
- June: Beach Day
- July: Happy 4th of July Jenny Sweeney!
Find some more literature-based units of study ideas in my store, The Teaching Scene by Maureen.
Grab your Free, Turkey Trouble Literature-Based Mini Unit Here!
Literature-Based Units of Study
In conclusion, hopefully this guide to using literature-based units of study answers some of your questions. They allow educators to create lessons based on one or a series of books. These units help with the creation of lessons that include all areas if study. Literature-based units of study help the learner to learn a variety of skills based on wonderful literature.
To read more blog topics check out my blog, ” Create Memorable Literacy Units: Tips & Tricks October Edition.”
