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It is at the elementary level that children become fascinated with the "how" and "why"
of everything. Using the skills acquired in the primary (preschool) years, the elementary student becomes an explorer of the
universe in a more profound way. They are entering a period of imagination, reason, socialization and moral justice.
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Dr. Montessori's plan for educating the elementary child was to give him a vision of the universe and raise a thinking
child. The result of her work is an integrated curriculum: Mathematics, Geometry,
Algebra, Language, Reading, Grammar, Literature, History, Physical Geography, Cultural Geography, Economic Geography, Anatomy,
Ecology, Chemistry, Geology, Mineralogy, Astronomy, Drama, Music, Art, and Physical Education.
Montessori education teaches children to think, not just memorize facts, feed them back and forget them. Students
literally learn how to learn and become fully engaged in the learning process.
Children work both individually
and in groups and are encouraged to pursue their own passion, with guidance of the teacher. One distinct characteristic of
the Montessori elementary program is the absence of regularly scheduled homework, grades and tests. Children are able to assess
their work weekly in personal conference with the teacher. Individual goals are set for the following week allowing each child
the chance to know what it means to work to his or her fullest potential.
The freedom allowed and the responsibility
expected in the classroom, enables the child to develop a strong sense of self-esteem and inner discipline that is carried
throughout the child's life of learning.
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