THE MONTESSORI METHOD The Montessori bead material is used for many purposes including multiplication facts. THE MONTESSORI METHOD offers an enriched curriculum which incorporates and extends district, state and national standards. Scientific and mathematical aptitutdes, appreciation for history and timelines, literacy across disciplines, research and development of community, flourish in the Montessori classroom. Students are actively involved in their education, learning the habits and skills necessary for These girls are writing a story using the moveable alphabet. self-directed, independent, life-long learning. HANDS-ON MATERIALS encourage active learning in all subject areas. Montessori said, "The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence." The materials are designed to teach, to test understanding, to correct errors, and to lead to the understanding of abstract concepts. Students have ready access to the materials which are arranged on shelves according to subject areas. THE This 4 year old boy is larning letter sounds by tracing the sandpaper letters. INDIVIDUAL LEARNER is at the heart of the Montessori approach. Montessori teachers individualize instruction so each child works at a level and pace which is comfortable and challenging. Learning occurs in large group, small group, individual, and cooperatvie peer learning situations. EXTENSIVE MULTI-MEDIA RESOURCES include an outstanding media center and ready access to computers in classrooms and labs. These resources Using the Internet to discover amazing facts about Egypt. support students as they engage in research and projects. Montessori education is rooted in the natural curiosity of children about life and the world around them. Students learn how to learn: how to pose questions, design investigations, and gain the skills necessary to express and pursue their own research interests. MULTI-GRADE CLASSROOMS provide wide ranging academic and social growth. Younger children benefit from students are introduced to concepts when they are ready in flexible and often multi-age groups. positive learning and behavior models provided by the older children. Leadership and social responsibility are developed by the older students. There are three groupings: Children's House (half-day 4 year olds and full day kindergarten), Elementary 1 (grades 1 - 3), and Elementary 2 (grades 4 - 6). Staying with the same teacher for three years has a positive effect on students' attitudes and performance.