A Montessori Elementary classroom is designed to meet the needs of the child during the second stage of development. We offer a Lower Elementary program for children 6 to 9 years (grades 1 to 3) and an Upper Elementary program for children 9 to 12 years (grades 4 to 6).
The Elementary classroom is designed in very much in the same manner as the Casa environment. Math, geometry, language, science, history, geography and practical life are some of the areas within the curriculum. French, Art, Drama, music and physical education are also taught.
Students are encouraged to follow their own interests yet also to go out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves. Students collaborate on projects, work in small groups and participate in the establishment of rules and regulations within the environment. Cooperative learning occurs through peer teaching and social interaction.
Elementary aged children want to explore the world around them and are no longer content with the classroom. A major component of the Montessori philosophy for Elementary is called Going Out. Students are encouraged to supplement their education by 'going out' into the community of which they belong. With the aid of the teacher, students organize a safe and appropriate excursion. This allows the child to find her or his place in the community and gives them a sense of how they fit into the big picture.
Socially, there is great development during this period. Drawn to the group, children begin to distance themselves from families. Children tend to join together and form their own peer groups. Clubs, societies and teams are spontaneously formed by children during this period.
There is great moral development at this time as children are concerned with right and wrong. They are extremely interested in justice and fairness. Dr. Montessori believed that myths, fables, and fairy tales could play a key role in moral understanding and the exploration of feelings and emotions.
Overall, the goal for the elementary student is that he/she will continue to be educated in a way that ensures opportunities to achieve, be challenged, learn and find happiness in their work.