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An emphasis on thinking skills

The Montessori elementary program provides children a unique opportunity for growth. The imaginative, social and creative child craves an environment that offers appropriate freedom and boundaries, with an extensive curriculum to support their curiosity and prepare them for the challenges of the future.

Characteristics of the 6 to 12 years old child

Imagination & Reasoning

"The imagination is the eye that allows the child to see into the past and into the future." - Maria Montessori

Children aged 6 to 12 no longer just want to know the "what is it?", they will begin to question the "why" and "how" and the connections between. They are able to use both imagination and reason to explore concepts beyond the here and now.

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Curriculum

Maria Montessori called the elementary education program "cosmic education" due to it's aim to expose children to a full range of human knowledge, using an integrated approach to learning placed in a worldly context. 

The framework of the elementary curriculum is established with an overview of the history of the universe. By studying ancient civilizations, children discover that all aspects of knowledge are fundamental; including math, language, history, botany, geography, music, and art. This understanding fosters a love of learning and a desire to take their place as active members of the community.

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During the 6 to 9 year period, lessons are primarily presented using Montessori materials and exercises. The transition to more critical thinking and the use of books and other research material begins at this level and continues through the elementary years. The teacher and student go through lessons and homework together, the goal being that students assess their own learning. Parent-teacher meetings take place regularly throughout the year.

Mathematics and geometry

Mathematics is taught as a process of understanding through visualized abstractions. This is the main reason for using various learning materials, as children spontaneously understand the process. A child might say, "I can do the checkerboard without the checkerboard" - meaning that he or she can multiply in an abstract way without depending on the materials. During the elementary years, children focus on basic operations, the decimal system, fractions, and geometry. Some concepts of algebra, such as the square and the cube, are also explored.

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