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If there’s one subject that naturally invites curiosity and creativity, it’s science. And when you’re homeschooling, there’s no better way to make science come alive than with homeschool science unit studies.
In this post, we’ll explore why science and unit studies are such a perfect match, how to structure your science unit studies, and some of our favorite science-themed units (including a few ready-to-go kits) to spark curiosity and learning in your home.
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Science is about asking questions, exploring, experimenting, and discovering how the world works—all things that fit beautifully with the homeschool unit study approach.
Instead of reading dry textbook chapters, your kids can:
Conduct hands-on experiments
Read engaging books about science topics
Create art projects inspired by what they’re learning
Write about their discoveries
Get outside and experience science in real life
Homeschool science unit studies encourage curiosity and allow kids to see how science connects to the world around them. Plus, it’s easy to tailor them to your child’s interests and learning style.
Here’s why so many families love using unit studies for science:
They encourage hands-on learning. Science is meant to be experienced! Experiments, nature walks, art projects, and observations all reinforce learning.
They make big concepts more understandable. A unit study breaks complex ideas into manageable, meaningful activities.
They help kids see how science applies to real life. Learning about simple machines, rainforests, or space isn’t just academic—it connects to the world your kids live in.
They’re easy to adapt for multiple ages. Whether you’re teaching preschoolers or elementary kids, everyone can join in at their own level.
They support curiosity-driven learning. You can follow your child’s interests and go deep into topics they care about.
Planning a science-themed homeschool unit study doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple structure to follow:
Start with a topic your child is excited about or one you’re planning to cover in your homeschool. Some popular options include:
Find nonfiction and fiction books about the topic, along with videos, websites, and other resources.
The heart of a homeschool science unit study is hands-on learning. Include:
Experiments
Nature study
STEM challenges
Science-themed art projects
Games and sensory play
Weave in related language arts and math activities, like:
Keeping a science notebook
Completing observation charts
Measuring during experiments
Solving math problems related to the topic
Encourage your child to share what they’ve learned—whether that’s through a project, presentation, or just a fun family conversation.
If you’re looking for ready-made homeschool science unit studies, here are a few of our most popular themes:
Take a deep dive into the world of deserts with this hands-on, engaging unit study. Kids will learn about desert habitats, plant and animal adaptations, and the fascinating ecosystems that thrive in some of the world’s driest places. Activities include crafting 3D models of desert animals like scorpions and armadillos, creating stunning quilled cactus art, and writing your own choose your own adventure story!
Perfect for kids who are curious about extreme environments and unique creatures.
Dive beneath the waves and discover the wonders of the deep! This ocean-themed unit study is packed with science experiments, sensory play, and creative projects that teach kids about ocean currents, the layers of the ocean, and the incredible animals that call the ocean home. Activities include building a deep sea diorama, exploring how sharks smell underwater, making a rising tides flip book, and learning how ocean animals stay warm in icy waters.
Ideal for kids who love marine life and hands-on science exploration.
Turn everyday weather into a learning adventure with this interactive unit study. Kids will explore the science behind clouds, rain, storms, and snow through hands-on projects and experiments. Activities include making a weather station, creating cloud art, experimenting with wind and temperature, and learning to observe and chart weather patterns.
A perfect fit for curious learners who want to understand the world around them and the science behind the weather.
If you’re looking to plan your own science unit studies, here are a few more topic ideas:
Hibernation
Rocks & Minerals
Animal Habitats
Microorganisms
Oceans & Marine Life
Inventions & Inventors
The Human Body
Forces & Motion
You can also grab our free 100+ Unit Study Ideas PDF to spark even more inspiration!
Science is one of the most exciting subjects to explore with your kids—and homeschool science unit studies are one of the best ways to make it stick. When you combine books, hands-on experiments, art, and real-world exploration, learning becomes meaningful, memorable, and fun.
Here are a few ways to get started:
Grab our free Unit Study Mini Planner to map out your lessons and goals
Download our free 100+ Unit Study Ideas PDF for instant theme inspiration
Explore our ready-to-go Homeschool Unit Study Kits —packed with materials, activities, and everything you need for hands-on science at home
These tools make it easier than ever to create a homeschool science experience your kids will love!
Author: Elizabeth, Team Knowledge Crates
Elizabeth is a former public school teacher turned homeschool mom with a Master of Science in education. She's been homeschooling for six years with her kiddos who are currently in kindergarten and third grade. At Knowledge Crates, Elizabeth develops the elementary unit studies and test-runs activities with her kids.
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What are science unit studies for homeschool?
Science unit studies are themed learning experiences that bring together books, hands-on activities, creative projects, and writing—all focused on one science topic. Instead of jumping from subject to subject, kids explore a single theme in depth and from multiple angles.
Why are unit studies perfect for science learning at home?
Science is naturally hands-on and curiosity-driven, which makes it a perfect match for unit studies. Kids get to experiment, explore, and ask big questions—all while making real-world connections through active learning.
How do I structure a homeschool science unit study?
Start by choosing a topic your child is curious about, like weather or habitats. Then gather a few great books, plan some hands-on experiments or creative projects, and sprinkle in related writing, reading, and math. You can go at your own pace and follow your child’s interest.
Can multiple children do a science unit study together?
Yes! Unit studies work really well for multi-age homeschooling. Younger children might engage through stories and sensory play, while older kids dive deeper with independent research or more advanced versions of the same activity.
Do science unit studies really help kids retain information?
Definitely. When kids are building, experimenting, or creating something related to what they’re learning, they remember it better. Hands-on learning makes science concepts stick in a way that reading alone just can’t.
I want a ready-made science unit study with all materials included—where can I find one?
Knowledge Crates offers open-and-go science unit studies that make teaching science simple and stress-free. Each crate includes everything you need, from glue and paint to high-quality fiction and nonfiction books. You’ll also get over 20 hands-on activities, a suggested pacing guide, optional state standards for reporting, and a themed library book list if you want to dive deeper. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to teach science at home—even if you’re not a science person yourself.
