Lower Elementary Curriculum

A strong sense of individuality

The Montessori elementary classroom is a miniature society where a strong sense of individuality is balanced by an equal sense of community. Students work cooperatively, learning to respect themselves and one another. They teach each other and share responsibility for maintaining the classroom. In a safe, success oriented environment and with the guidance of accredited Montessori Directresses and Directors, each student is able to set personal goals and enjoy his or her own accomplishments.

Our curriculum is based on the Montessori philosophy of “cosmic education,” — a presentation of knowledge unfolds the origins of the earth, of life, of human communities, of empires, and of modern history, always in the context of the whole rather then starting with details. It includes the presentation of formal scientific language of zoology, botany, anthropology, geography and geology, exposing the student to accurate, organized information which respects the child’s intelligence and interest.

The classroom also offers the use of time lines, picture charts, and other visual aids which provide a linguistic and visual overview of the first principle of each discipline. The mathematics curriculum is presented with concrete materials which simultaneously reveal the arithmetic, geometric and algebraic correlations.

The integration of the arts, sciences, geography, history, and language help the child better understand the interrelationship of subjects and not see them as isolated disciplines. The emphasis on open ended research and in depth study uses primary and secondary sources as well as other materials.

My time at Wheatley gave me the confidence and tools to pursue my dreams.

SIMON, CLASS OF ‘94