In a Montessori Elementary classroom, the teacher’s central role is to connect students with lessons and materials so that they can pursue their own learning. Teachers prepare the classroom to provide structure for students and protect their freedom. Teachers guide and inspire learning. While aware of all the students, they move around the class, giving lessons to individuals or small groups. They also allow students time to repeat and practice work. Time and attention are focused on providing developmentally appropriate learning opportunities for individuals and small groups of students.
The ultimate goal is to inspire students’ interest and provide appropriate opportunities for on-going progress and mastery. In many schools, the term “guide” is used instead of “teacher” to highlight students’ role in their learning. Teachers don’t give many lectures to the whole class. Nor do they tell students what to do, or what to learn. Students are provided with materials which facilitate their independence and ability to be self-directed in the classroom.The structure and materials encourage independence, interdependence, and executive functioning skills. Students are encouraged to collaborate and seek help from each other which builds confidence, spark insights, and lead to excitement. Teachers provide opportunities for students to work through challenges which provide opportunities for meaningful learning and build independence.
The Montessori Elementary classroom is designed to integrate the needs and the characteristics of children in the second plane of development.
Maria Montessori developed the theory of Cosmic Education: that everything in our universe is interdependent and the past, present, and future of our history is interconnected. All bodies of study branch out from this cosmic education plan: life science, earth science, physical science, geography, history, math and the arts. Children at this age have a curiosity regarding the world around them and a deep desire to attain knowledge. Children by nature integrate their learning rather than compartmentalizing into individual subject areas. Montessori is a unique individualized educational approach that nurtures a child's intrinsic desire to learn and focuses on the whole child—their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Our hope and expectation is for the students leaving our program to go forth as passionate learners, problem solvers, and stewards of peace.
UE Language Arts Scope & Sequence
UE Social Studies Scope & Sequence
Sterling uses Montessori lessons and resources found in the Wonder Years Puberty Curriculum to meet NC Health Standards.
In Upper Elementary, Montessori science lessons and materials cover all human body systems. In this way, students discover how their body works and how to keep it healthy within the confines of scientific exploration. Students learn that these systems must function together and not in isolation of one another. The integrated study of these topics removes any embarrassment or stigma that might be otherwise attached to health sciences. It also satisfies the upper elementary student’s intense curiosity and need to know how and why things work the way they do. In addition, Topics such as nutrition, wellness, physical fitness, digital citizenship and maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships are discussed and are aligned with NC Science and Health standards. More detailed health and anatomy lessons which require developmental readiness are introduced to the students in grade level groups in the Spring of each year. Prior to these lessons, parents will be invited to an overview of the curriculum in order to better understand the content and have an opportunity to ask questions.