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History is one of the most important subjects we can teach our children. Finding a single curriculum that tells a well-rounded version is tough. We took a unit study approach to compiling some of our favorite resources into a robust, year (or two) long U.S. History Unit Study Plan and Resource Guide suitable for 4th-8th grade. We are offering our hard work to you for free when you subscribe to our email newsletter!

“History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view, to be useful to the modern traveller.”

— Henry Glassie

Our U.S. History Unit Study is by no means comprehensive, nor is it perfect for every family. However, you can customize it! The best part is, I created the framework and you can swap my resources for ones that suit your family better. I highly recommend reviewing books and movies before using them as my family will have different tolerances than yours. Below you will see the highlights of this unit study and the fun we have had with it!

U.S. History Curriculum

I couldn’t decide on just one curriculum nor do I think history should be limited to just one source. In order to provide my children with a well-rounded dive into American History, I chose:

Gather ‘Round Homeschool - I began with their North America and Indigenous Peoples studies, moved in U.S. History 1-6, utilized two book studies (Underground to Canada and My Side of the Mountain) and two supplemental studies (North American Birds and National Parks). Gather ‘Round is featured as one of our faves where we share all the reasons why we love the curriculum.
For Kids Series History Books - this book series not only provides a thorough overview but includes many hands-on activities. While I didn’t use every book they offer on American History, I did use several - from The American Revolution for Kids through The Civil Rights Movement for Kids.
History Unboxed - an educational box full of hands-on learning! I bought all of the American History boxes up front (rather than utilizing their monthly subscription). The boxes can be used as a curriculum all on their own or to compliment others you are using.

American History Literature

After our literature-based California History Unit last year, I knew I needed to incorporate amazing books into this unit as well. I was only able to get a handful on the list, but I figure when we study U.S. History again in high school, we can read the ones we skipped for now.

Reference Sources

Having reference books and documents is incredibly helpful for being able to go to a primary source when asking questions. I made sure to have The U.S. Constitution, The Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and the Amendments in book form available. I also love having the Founding Documents, a map of the U.S., and a detailed timeline of events up on our wall for quick access.

Field Trips

Historical field trips really bring learning to life and create the most amazing memories. Even out in California, we have some amazing companies that run early American history field trips. I can only imagine that the east coast has some spectacular places to visit!

Videos & Movies

For audiovisual reinforcement, I included some YouTube videos and movies in our unit study. Hamilton is a favorite though it’s not totally historically accurate (or appropriate for all ages). We found the musical, 1776, and ended up enjoying it even though it’s a bit cheesy. We enjoyed the short and to-the-point summaries by YouTuber, The Daily Bellringer.

Other Books

My 5-year-old son joins us for learning most of the time, so I made sure to include picture books in our study. They are more engaging for him and helps to reinforce what we’ve learned with my 5th grader.

Designing and using this U.S. History Unit Study is one of the best things I’ve done in my homeschooling career so far! I spent about 25 hours putting this all together for my 5th grader and want to share it with you. You can view, download, and customize the complete unit study plan and resource guide right now.

American History Unit Study