Elementary I Program

Elementary Geometry I (40)

Basic concepts of geometry, including the characteristics
of lines, plane figures, and their relationships are made
using Montessori apparatus.

Elementary Arithmetic I (84)

Materials for math, including number concepts related to
whole numbers, fractions, and decimals, and whole
number operations for the 6 through 9 year-old child.
Includes discussion sessions on effective management of
and implementation of curriculum in the classroom.
Substantial lab time is devoted to practice with materials.

Elementary Biology I (40)

The study of botany and zoology; general characteristics
of life forms, their functions, classification, and
environments. Supervised materials-making sessions and
outdoor experiences.

Elementary Science I (10)

Basic concepts of physics, chemistry, and simple
machines presented with recommendations for integrating
these areas into cultural curricula. Use of computer
technology in the classroom by both adults and children is
included.

Elementary Music I (4)

Elementary music consists of group and individual
activities related to the acquisition of singing skills,
rudimentary rhythm exercises, and introductory theory.
Resources for this course will include Orff-Schulwerk.

Elementary Art I (8)

This course encourages teachers to introduce their
children to the work of artists through their use of a
particular medium or tool. Seasonal celebrations are
approached as cultural studies, as well as encouraging the
child’s observations of the changes and cycles in nature.

Elementary Physical Education I (8)

Appropriate teaching tools to support fitness in younger
elementary children are given, including personal fitness,
assessment of children with respect to fitness, large and
small group games appropriate to the 6-9 age range.

Volume 10.0 Revised 12/01/09

Montessori Elementary I Course Description

Our Montessori Elementary I (6 through 9) Program is a
360 hour course designed to prepare teachers to work
with children from ages 6-9 in Montessori multi-age
classrooms. The course is conducted in two academic
sessions of four weeks duration with two seminars during
the academic year. Students entering in June or July of
one year typically complete class sessions at the end of
the following July. Certification candidates must possess a
bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. Qualified candidates
who complete all course requirements and a practicum
equivalent to one academic year (1080 hours) in
approved classroom are recommended to the American
Montessori Society for the Elementary I Credential.
(Clock hours for courses are shown in parentheses.)

Elementary Theory and Methods I (50)

History and principles of the Montessori Method with
emphasis on the developmental characteristics of the
elementary child and of the Montessori approach at the
elementary level. Activities stress the importance of
collaboration and awareness of the natural world.
Includes preparation of the physical classroom
environment for the 6-9 year old child, design of
appropriate supplementary materials for the classroom,
effective record-keeping systems, and management
strategies. Group discussions and problem-solving are an
important component.

Elementary Language I (56)

Concrete experiences leading to reading, writing, and the
exploration of grammar, along with contemporary
supplementary material consistent with Montessori
standards and purposes. Attention is given to the role of
individual development in learning to read and to
assessment of language skills.

Elementary Geography I (30)

Topics range from the physical features of our planet and
forces at work on it to the development of human
cultures. Students prepare models, maps, and charts
related to various aspects of earth history, composition,
and weather phenomena.

Elementary History I (30)

Topics for research related to the child’s sense of time
and human history is presented. Subject matter ranges
from time-telling and calendar activities to the history of
life on earth and the appearance of humans.