Montessori Education Curriculum
The materials in the classroom can be
divided into five main areas. Activity
with these materials involves physical
and mental action, linking body and
mind.
Practical Life
Exercises such as pouring, grating,
polishing, sorting, washing, and
buttoning help the child learn to
function in his or her own environment,
and are preliminary to more advanced
learning. The child develops an
attention to details, a lengthened span
of concentration and muscular control
and coordination through the successful
completion of these basic exercises.
Sensorial
Activities are designed to isolate and
sharpen each of the five senses. Grading
and comparing sounds, sizes, colors,
textures and shapes help organize the
impressions a child receives. The
materials have a built-in control of
error so the child can correct his own
mistakes. Sensorial materials are
sequential and provide a foundation for
mathematics and language.
Language
Materials are presented individually to
take advantage of the greatest interest
on the part of the child. Children are
taught the sound and formation of the
letters kinesthetically through the use
of sandpaper letters and similar
materials. Word building activities of
increasing difficulty are done over a
long period of time. Reading follows
naturally.
Mathematical
Concepts are presented through extensive
use of concrete materials. The child's
sensorial training enables him to
identify and differentiate the idea of
quantity that is built into the
Montessori materials. The child gains
the conception of number and its
application on arithmetical operations.
Cultural
Geography, history, botany, biology,
music and grammar are introduced through
the use of concrete materials.
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