The Elementary Classroom (Ages 6 - 12)
The child in the elementary class learns through research and discovery.
Dr. Montessori pointed out that this is the time of optimal development of social skills, character formation, and the reasoning mind.
We offer the child a "universe of knowledge", first presented to the child in a story-telling fashion. Each "story" opens up an area of exploration, followed by lessons, and further investigation of related topics.
The teacher creates richer and more complex experiences for students, working with them in partnership, eliciting and then facilitating learning based on interest.
The lessons given by the teacher direct the child toward activities that help strengthen reasoning skills and encourage discussion.
We use an interdisciplinary approach to present studies in geometry, science, history, geography, language arts, mathematics, music, and the arts.
These studies are not limited to the classroom. They include outside resources such as the Botanical Gardens, or a factory or a hospital, and enable the students to observe a society and its workings.
OUR ELEMENTARY CLASSROOM
• Is a democratic community.
• Emphasizing respect, cooperation and analytical thinking.
• Fostering healthy personal and interpersonal behaviors.
