The project approach to learning includes a focus on in-depth study of a topic, along with teaching style, learning style, and theme. In contrast to a thematic approach, the project approach encourages children to be actively engaged in their own studies, with teachers acting as guides and facilitators. In the project approach, students use subject matter areas as tools in their chosen investigations. Katz and Chard's "Engaging Children's Minds: The Project Approach" is drawn upon as a starting point for this case study. First grade students were involved in two units: (1) a thematic unit involving dinosaurs; and (2) a project-based unit about frogs. Comparisons were made between the two experiences. Particular attention was given to children's enthusiasm for the work; the reading, writing, and learning in other curriculum areas; and analysis of differences in the two learning approaches. The results showed that children exhibited greater enthusiasm for the collaborative work in the project approach than in the thematic unit. Children were also more involved in reading and research in the frog project than the dinosaur unit, and made many more decisions about their own learning. Children who use these skills in meaningful, project-based situations maintain positive outlooks toward learning, effecting learning in later years. Contains 11 references. (BGC)