Elementary I students are ready and eager to discover the world.

They have a newfound curiosity to know what people do, how things work and how they fit into the big picture! They are beginning to understand the complexities of concepts such as rules, accountability, and emotions.

In a nutshell, students at this age are becoming aware of their role in the classroom, at home, in the community and the world. In the classroom environment, they are realizing that everything they do impacts their classmates. Students are on the cusp of recognizing their unique role as part of a community, group, or team.

Learn more about the Montessori Elementary Program at The American Montessori Society

The areas of focus in an Elementary Montessori Classroom are:

Practical Life

Care of school/home environment, plant/animal care, social skills including letter writing, introductions, dining and telephone etiquette, and community service.

Language

Reading is emphasized through use of a self-paced reading series, literature groups, vocabulary building and oral research presentations. Writing skills include sentence and paragraph building, spelling, penmanship, creative writing and research.

Mathematics

Four basic mathematic operations are mastered in depth. Plane geometry, algebra and other more complex math studies are introduced as the student is ready.

Cultural

History, Geography and Science Exploration using an enriching variety of materials. Independent research and group projects are required. Plant and animal classifications, history timelines, and hands-on science experiments are included.

Foreign Language

All Elementary students study Spanish using a variety of Spanish language Montessori materials, conversation, and written work. Classes are conducted entirely in Spanish.

Music

Notation, rhythmic patterns, instrument playing, and study of forms. Types of music, composers and music from various cultures are included.

Art

Instruction in basic drawing concepts of line, form and color using a variety of media; Artist appreciation through museum visits and artwork lending programs.

Physical Education

Daily outdoor activity time and a structured P. E. class introduces fitness for life skills; sports units emphasize team building and sportsmanship.