- A style
that encourages active learning experiences
- A flexible
curriculum suited to what each child is ready to learn
- Projects
perfect for the self-paced approach used
- Group
activities and schoolwork
Active
Learning Experiences
Most classroom settings
involve children learning in a more passive manner. Usually, they are listening
while the teacher talks. Student contributions are usually guided by the
teacher's approach.A Montessori classroom involves active discovery that is both self-motivated and hands-on. Because kids take a lead role in discovering the information they're learning, the lessons and activities are more relevant. The overemphasis on testing and memorization that happens in a traditional school is absent from a Montessori setting.
Flexible
Curriculum Options
Montessori teachers have more
of a coaching or guiding role, as opposed to teaching at an established pace
that uses a one-size-fits all approach. Children are able to escape both being
left behind by lessons and having lessons they can't keep up with.In Montessori classrooms, students learn in smaller groups, with lessons guided by the observable needs of the class. The child can learn at his or her pace. Students have both the option of taking as long as they need on a lesson and advancing sooner.
Project-Based
Approaches
Because traditional
elementary schools focus on benchmarks, many of the lessons are not as
intensive as children would prefer. The teachers are also expected to
exclusively measure their students' progress. Kids have less involvement in
tracking their progress.In a Montessori setting, students have easy access to hands-on materials. There are also textbooks and other supplemental reading material designed to help increase their understanding of the subject. Children can take a lead in tracking their progress with a form tailored to their individual learning plan.
Group
Activities and Schoolwork
Students in a Montessori
classroom will perform more of their schoolwork as part of a group than their
peers in many traditional school classrooms. Working in groups is the norm,
rather than an exception. However, kids can work individually if they prefer,
making the experience easily adaptable.When students are in a Montessori classroom, they learn in a setting that actively encourages learning and caters to individual needs. For many children, this approach is their path to success throughout life. The Montessori Elementary Program at the Montessori School of Pleasanton is designed for students to work together, being guided by teachers throughout their day and journey of learning as a whole. Contact us today to schedule a tour and see the Montessori difference first hand.
