The Montessori Elementary curriculum contains the following areas of learning:
Language
Reading and writing are integral to all subjects in the Elementary environment. Students master skills thorough studies of grammar, spelling, and mechanics. Neatness and legibility of writing of of importance and children are ‘awarded’ pen licences as soon as they are able to do so. The children read, analyze, think critically, and compare and contrast a variety of literature and personal opinion and perspectives are encouraged.
Mathematics
In the Elementary the children use their prior learning of number concepts, place value, numerals, and related quantities to expanded upon. Children now use known materials in alternative ways to consider number concepts, operations, and more complex functions, helping them to expand their mathematical knowledge and understanding.
Culture
Cultural studies are interdisciplinary and comprise of zoology, botany, geography, geology, physical and life sciences, and anthropology. Through these lessons, children explore the interconnectedness of all living things and their role within each area of interest. In addition, studies of history, physical and political world geography, economics, peace and justice and the arts are introduced.
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
Geometry
In true Montessori fashion, the study of Geometry travels from simple to complex, through the use of beautifully designed materials. These materials lead to understanding the formulas for calculating areas and volumes or learning the advanced terminology and concepts like congruence, similarity, equivalence.
Practical Life
Practical Life activities focus on skills that help children connect with their interests in the outside world, organize their time, and take part in their community.
Project-Based Learning
The Montessori elementary cultural curriculum forms the cornerstone of learning in the primary unit. We introduce children to the Great Lessons throughout their time with us, starting with the whole universe before breaking it down into manageable pieces. By doing this we afford each child the oportunity and freedom to explore and learn ,beginning with what interests them most.
Bloom’s Taxonomy
Project based learning encourages the childrens thinking skills to progress and build from remembering to higher function thinking skill of creating. Projects, require that children take the knowledge aquired in research and apply it in new ways.
Children are free to choose the topic of their Projects from within the guidelines of the current field of study.
Projects are presented to peers, but the method of display of informations is entirely up to each child. Each project is scored using a simple Rubic (scoring tool) both by the directress and the child and one to one meetings are held to discuss these, points of strength and areas for development.
In all environments at Waxberry Montessori children of mixed ages work together. Age groupings are based on the Planes of Development as identified by Dr. Maria Montessori. These mixed age classes enable younger children to learn from older children and older children reinforce their learning by teaching concepts they have already mastered. Because each child works at their own pace; there is cooperation rather than competition between the ages.
Benefits of Mixed-Age Classrooms
Enrolment Process
Ready to give your child the gift of Montessori education? Our simple enrolment process ensures that every family has the support they need to begin their journey with us. Explore our environments, schedule a show around, or contact us for more information. Let us guide you through our school.