About Montessori

 Montessori refers to an educational philosophy and method of teaching started by an Italian physician, scientist, and educator named Maria Montessori. As a scientist and physician, Maria Montessori based her educational philosophy on children’s physical and psychological development. Montessori teachers observe children, respond to their needs and interests, present appropriate lessons, and prepare the learning environment with materials and tools to guide children toward mastery of concepts and create meaningful learning experiences. Certain characteristics set it apart from traditional education.

Multi-grade/age levels

Students are grouped according to stages of development, typically three years (3-6 yrs., 6-9 yrs., 9-12 yrs.) They spend three years with the same teacher and peer group. This allows for peer learning/teaching, and close teacher/student relationships. Students have familiarity, independence, and leadership in the classroom environment.

 Child-centered

The individual child’s needs and interests are the focus of teacher guidance and lessons. The teacher observes and guides through small group direct instruction, individual support, and redirection/reteaching as needed.

Students independently work with and learn from specifically designed self-correcting materials achieving meaningful learning experiences.  Students collaborate with teachers to create individualized work plans based on readiness and interest.

Prepared environment

A Montessori environment is prepared with the child’s needs in mind. Academic materials are placed neatly and beautifully on shelves to entice student interest and facilitate a sense of order and calmness. Learning is achieved through self-correcting materials on shelves prepared in advance by the teacher. In a prepared environment, the child can move independently around the classroom practicing with materials, conducting research, and completing projects. Furniture and work spaces accommodate different needs and desires. For example, Maria Montessori observed that her children preferred to work on the floor so she provided rugs for the children to use. Montessori classrooms today offer rugs for children to work on the floor and tables for those who want them.  Child-sized cleaning supplies and sinks allow children to care for their physical and environmental needs.

 Specifically Designed Materials

Concepts and ideas are presented concretely through specifically designed and sequenced materials. The materials are three-dimensional and require repeated movement which allows children to learn processes, develop muscle memory, and create a mental framework for abstract ideas.

Montessori materials are specifically designed and tested to teach abstract concepts in a way that can be visualized and manipulated. For this reason, younger children can be presented with and learn advanced concepts.

Unlimited Curriculum

The curriculum has a large scope and sequence designed for each stage of development. The curriculum has a 3-year cycle allowing for a range of abilities and readiness based on developmental stage rather than age or grade (3-6, 6-9, 9-12). Learning is self-paced within the Montessori curriculum allowing for individual learning rhythms, concentration, and enjoyment of learning.

Students learn concepts at their own pace based on readiness, skill level, and interest within the range of their cognitive, social, and emotional development. The curriculum allows for multiple learning styles and expressions.

The Montessori curriculum is inherently cross-curricular connecting subject areas cohesively. Social and character development are a large part of the curriculum, including grace and courtesy, peace, and life skills.

 

 

 

Maria Montessori

Maria Montessori

Founder of the Montessori Method

photo courtesy of montessoricentenary.org

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