As studies into income achievement gaps rise, the Montessori method is getting more attention.
However, this school isn’t like other private schools.
The original Montessori school was established in 1907 in Italy. It crafted its curriculum around the founder’s concepts.
The approach spread to the United States. The first U.S. Montiessore school was born in 1911.
Yet, what makes Montessori education so different than other approaches?
Let’s take a deeper look at Montessori schools to understand how they could lessen the achievement gap.
What is the Montessori Classroom Setup?
Montessori education is frequently described as more “hands-on” than other schools.
This method relies on group activities, creativity, and solo exploration. The goal is to learn to work together as a team while enhancing individual skills.
Kids even develop a love for trades.
Another notable difference is classroom setup.
Parents immediately notice how imaginative Montessori classrooms are. Natural wood fixtures are encouraged. This includes wooden learning toys, colorful fabrics, paints, and crafts.
Wooden shelves are frequently shorter and minimalist. The walls don’t contain as many posters and decor as public schools. Ideally, the walls would be wood, keeping the all-natural theme.
Another stark difference is the desk setup.
Typical classroom desks are arranged in rows. Montessori classrooms have learning areas. You’ll find more round desks, learning areas, and play areas.
Lighting is another crucial difference. The Montessori method leverages soft, soothing lighting. This lighting design helps children calm down and focus, while bright fluorescent lights can be more distracting.
How does the Montessori Method Work?
The classroom set up is a cornerstone of the Montessori approach.
Remember those learning areas earlier?
Each area represents a different subject, like science, art, math, languages, and social studies. Students explore these topics both collaboratively and independently.
Since the learning method is so imaginative, students learn through the following activities:
- Arts and crafts projects
- Puzzles
- Block-stacking (for math problems)
- Dollmaking for roleplay
- Culinary-inspired activities
- Theater and puppet shows
Students frequently merge these activities into large projects. For example, if a group was learning about the history of Portugal, they may construct a 3D map, make real Portuguese food, recite folk tales, or learn traditional dances.
Ideally, students would develop these ideas independently (and together.) Teachers are there to guide, teach subjects and foster confidence and skills in students. Click here to learn even more benefits of the Montessori method.
Understanding Montessori Education by Age
Montessori schools accommodate toddlers to high school students. The approach also has set achievement goals for each grade.
For example, parents who enroll their child in a Montessori education should expect the following results:
- Gross motor skill development
- Confidence in emerging skills
- Development of independent thought
It’s also the school’s responsibility to create an innovative and safe environment for students to learn.
Discover more Montessori Research and Development
Do you think the Montessori method could help with the income achievement gap?