The Elementary Community (1st through 6th grades)

CMS has two lower elementary classes (ages 6-9) and one upper elementary classroom (ages 9-12). The Montessori elementary classroom continues the work begun in the primary level with some of the early exercises as extensions of the primary materials. Elementary classes continue to bring children of different ages together. The curriculum is very broad, and requires the guide to have a broad and thorough education.

The elementary curriculum is comprised of three elements. One is the mastery of fundamental skills in reading, math, science, and geography. Second is the presentation of Dr. Montessori’s “Great Lessons.” The Great Lessons include the story of how the world came to be, the development of life on Earth, the story of humankind, the development of language and writing, and the development of mathematics. These lessons are designed to give children a cosmic perspective of the Earth and humanity’s place within the cosmos. The Great Lessons provide a passage from the sensorial/material level to the abstract. The third element is individually chosen research. Children are encouraged to explore topics that capture their imagination. Students do a great deal of independent reading and library research.

While the elementary classroom is a place for learning, it cannot possibly contain all the answers for the elementary child’s inquisitive mind. For this reason, children frequently go out to do research for their reports and projects. These are not field trips in the traditional sense, because the trip is organized and conducted by the children themselves. Going out is just as much a learning experience as are the lessons and work with classroom materials. In addition, earlier practical life experiences are extended into contributions through community service.