The Montessori Method
The evaluation of a child's growth from 2 years to 12 years from the concrete, abstract mind to a wider abstract plane of activity occurs within the distinctive stages as outlined by the Montessori Method.
The Montessori stages are Toddler (2 years to 3 years), Primary (3 to 6 years), Elementary I (6 to 9 years), and Elementary II (9 to 12 years).
The similarities among these age groupings are:- Prepared environment- a classroom with a vast array of hands on materials for learning.
- Teaching materials for hands on exploration
- Freedom of choice with directed limits
- Multi-age grouping
- Cooperative learning- the ability to interact with other children with different potentials
- Subjects developed in relationship to one another and interrelated for holistic learning.
From a sense of discovery a child's own curiosity propels him to persistence, initiative and concentration. The fostering of Montessori elements of self motivation, freedom of movement, and responsibility encourages the child to work within his classroom on the Montessori materials provided. Materials in themselves become goals not only short term but long term. The child's reality is his own reality now in and out of these goals as he perfects himself as the "learner."
The "parts of the whole" philosophy of Montessori education provides the scope of study and experience that encourages children to strive for achievement with real and profound understanding. The methodology and structure of mixed ages allows the greatest opportunity to devise and adapt the curriculum according to student interest and needs.
Elementary 6 to 12
not only continues with the Montessori materials in math, language, geography and cultural studies but also uses standard texts one to two grade levels above that is integrated into the curriculum. Homework is assigned to children in elementary to provide the child with the opportunity to experience independent accomplishments. The standardized texts are used at higher grade levels and allow the child to become familiar with standardized testing skill and drill in appropriate areas. This allows the child to easily transfer into private and public education. In addition to our core curriculum, the school offers weekly instruction in Technology, Art, Music and Gym for a well rounded education.