Three Elements of our Montessori Elementary Curriculum

The elementary Montessori curriculum is organized into three elements:

1. Mastery of Fundamental Skills and Basic Core Knowledge

Montessori education evolved out of the European tradition of academic excellence, and offers a rigorous course of study even in the elementary years. Elementary Montessori students explore the realm of mathematics, science and technology, the world of myth, great literature, history, world geography, civics, economics, anthropology, and the basic organization of human societies. Their studies cover the basics found in traditional curricula, such as the memorization of math facts, spelling lessons, and the study of vocabulary, grammar, sentence analysis, creative and expository writing, and library research skills.  Lessons are given in large-group, small-group, and individual formats.

2.    The Cosmic Curriculum: Dr. Montessori’s “Great Lessons”

The Great Lessons are five key areas of interconnected studies traditionally presented to all elementary Montessori students in the form of inspiring stories and related experiences and research projects.  The Great Lessons include the story of how the world came to be, the development of life on the Earth, the story of humankind, the development of language and writing, and the development of mathematics. They are intended to give children a “cosmic” perspective of the Earth and humanity’s (and their own) place within the cosmos.

Traditionally presented every year in the elementary class as an inspiration to new and older students alike, the lessons, studies, and projects surrounding each of the Great Lessons normally span many months and the questions that the children pose and their efforts to find the answers to their own questions may continue for many years.

3.    Individually Chosen Research

Elementary students are encouraged to explore topics that capture their imagination.  Rather than relying on textbooks, Elementary Montessori students are taught how to use reference materials, libraries, and the Internet to gather information and uncover facts. They gather information, assemble reports, teach what they have learned to their fellows, and assemble projects and handmade books of their own.  Their oral presentations and written research reports grow in sophistication and complexity every year.  Most former Montessori students look back on this aspect of the elementary program with particular fondness in later years.