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Lower Elementary

In the 6-9 classroom (1st-3rd grade), the focus becomes one of independence. Children are encouraged to work at their own pace and level while the state guidelines are followed for each grade level. The multi-age classroom promotes leadership and encourages growth through children teaching children. Assessments are used to enhance what the children are learning, and to provide guidance for the progression to more challenge work. These assessments are made primarily through observations, one-on-one work with a teacher, and written evaluation. The Lower Elementary classrooms have a small child to teacher ratio which enables the teachers to meet and follow all children’s individual needs.

Children are required to complete a cycle of work including; language, arithmetic, and culture daily. There are different units to be explored that help fulfill the work cycle. Grammar, science, history, botany, geometry, and geography, as well as writing skills, are included in the language, arithmetic and cultural subjects. Peace education, conflict resolution and community building are also a large part of the curriculum.

Lessons are given individually or in small groups. Occasionally a large unit will be presented in a large group with the children encouraged to explore the activities from the unit. The materials used for presenting lessons and exploration are hands on multi-sensory materials that are visual, tactile and auditory. The activities are placed on shelves in a sequential manner, easy to hard, top to bottom and concrete to abstract. The teachers provide lessons on individual activities relating to each unit, and coordinate units of study. Field trips and speakers enrich the curriculum throughout the year. Students are also involved in Music, Art Studio, Physical Education and Spanish weekly.

Learning in the Lower Elementary classroom occurs through the interaction with hands on materials and cooperative learning with other children. The Montessori environment provides a framework for the acquisition of lifelong academic and social skills.