Elementary
Ages 6 - 12
Individualized and academically-focused.
Academics and Curriculum
For returning Montessori students, the Montessori Elementary program expands upon the learning fostered in an Early Childhood program. For students new to Montessori, it orients them to the joys of responsible participation.
Teachers guide children through a rigorous curriculum individually tailored to their own interests, needs, and abilities. Teachers monitor progress against established benchmarks and expectations for student learning, including: academic preparedness, independence, confidence, autonomy, intrinsic motivation, social responsibility, and global citizenship.
The Montessori Elementary curriculum contains the following areas of learning:
Overview
In the Elementary environment, the acquisition of content is promoted through uninterrupted work cycles, where the teaching-learning process is designed according to the individual study plan that the Montessori Guides carry out for each child.
This allows children to develop authentic learning experiences that are not restricted by the limits of traditional subjects, but allows them to expand their learning by developing their conceptual understanding, and reinforcing their knowledge and skills in all disciplinary areas, which include the following;
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Language arts
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Mathematics
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Sciences: Zoology, botany, matter, and astronomy
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Social Studies: History and Geography
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Community Exploration: where children engage with the resources in their own communities to enrich and inspire their learning.
These include public libraries, museums, community centers, science centers etc.
Daily Schedule
9am
9am - 12pm
12 - 1:30pm
1:30-2:30pm
2:30-3:15pm
3:15-4pm
4 -5pm Optional
Arrival
Montessori Work Cycle
Lunch & Outdoor time
* Big Lesson
Project based work
Art / Music /Gym/ Community
Afterschool Programs
*Big Lessons:
Whole group lessons that provide children with the information they need to complete individual and group projects.
These lessons will also include scientific experiments and complex ideas in Language, Mathematics, Social studies, and Science.
Mathematics
The ideas of number concepts, place value, numerals, and related quantities are reinforced and expanded upon within the Elementary program. Newfound purposes for familiar math materials provide children with the means to consider number concepts, mathematical operations, and more complex functions, helping to expand advanced mathematical knowledge and understanding.
Science &
Social Studies
Interdisciplinary and integrated studies of geology, geography, physical and life sciences, anthropology, and history are built around “Great Lessons,” a series of dramatic stories that explore the origins of the universe, our planet, and the continuous development of human advancement. The laws of physics and chemistry reveal the interdependency of all living things. Beginning with a study of civilization, students explore the contributions of history and what it means to be a responsible citizen and to seek ways to make the world a better, more peaceful place.
Language
Reading and writing are integral to all subjects in Montessori Elementary, as children express their interests and satisfy their curiosity. Students master conventions with thorough studies of grammar, spelling, and mechanics. They produce final copies with careful penmanship and keyboarding. They read, analyze, think critically, and compare and contrast literature to support personal opinion and perspective. Using these reading and writing skills, they present ideas through formal and informal presentations.
Cultural Studies
Cultural studies are interdisciplinary and integrate zoology, botany, geography, geology, physical and life sciences, and anthropology. Through these lessons, children explore the interconnectedness of all living things. Additionally, in-depth studies of history, physical and political world geography, civics, economics, peace and justice, the arts, world language, and physical education are introduced.
Practical Life
Practical Life at the Elementary level shifts from a focus on self-care and fine motor skills, to skills that help children connect with their interests in the outside world, organize their time, and take part in their community.
While self-care and appropriate social interactions continue to be supported, lessons that teach responsibility are the focus. Use of tools, such as work plans, to support organization and time management skills, are incorporated into the daily routine.
Teachers and students often work together to post reminders about assignments, projects, and ideas. Using these, children make independent work choices, prioritize activities, and meet deadlines.
Movement
Children will work on their control and coordination through various activities that target both gross and fine movement. Mastery over motor control leads to improved self regulation in all aspects of daily activities.