Lower Elementary

5 Big Questions

The Montessori Elementary curriculum is built around what we call the Five Great Lessons. Our multi-sensory, interdisciplinary approach promotes deep learning. Students not only acquire the knowledge and skills they need but understand them in context and are introduced to the history of ideas.

#1: The Coming of the Universe

This is a story about the universe, our solar system, and our planet from the very beginning to what we know now in conjunction with scientific experiments, encompassing chemistry, the physics of gravity, electricity, and magnetism, geology, and geography.

#2: The Coming of Life

This is the broad story of how life came about on Earth and the progression of plant and animal life through time. It includes the disciplines of Biology, Zoology along with the concepts of habitats, ecosystems, and food systems, Botany, an introduction to genetics, the cell, systems of the human body, and the Taxonomy of all living organisms.

#3: The Coming of Human Beings

Beginning with our earliest ancestors, this story traces the development of human beings and human civilization. It includes Archaeology, Anthropology, History up through Current Events, Governments, systems of money, important discoveries and inventions and landmarks of Music and Art. 

#4: The Origin of Language

Elementary children learn both the history of language – from pictograms to alphabets – as well as studying language in its spoken and written forms. This includes Grammar and Syntax, Composition, Reading, Writing, Literature, and Foreign Language.

#5: The Origin of Numbers

Cultural education is comprised of three main areas; geography, science, and history with a goal of helping the child relate to the universe and develop a feeling of interconnectedness to humanity and the natural world. By laying a foundation of awe and wonder for the world we live in, Montessori placed hope in these young children to become global citizens and the future caretakers and peacemakers of the earth.

Experience and Exploration

Children in a Montessori classroom learn by doing. Designed to promote imagination and curiosity, love of learning, and respect for diversity and nature, our Montessori program for the students aged 6 – 9 years covers the traditional grades of first through third.

Now that they have learned to a level of physical, intellectual, and emotional self-mastery, students take the developmental steps required to move from concrete understanding to abstract thinking. It’s critically important that this happens in a peaceful and respectful environment where each child feels safe emotionally, physically, and academically.

Imagination and Collaboration

Your child at this age has a strong drive for social connection. They are starting to develop deeper friendships and a connection to the community around them. We meet that natural need for social connection by giving lessons in small groups and encouraging children to work together on projects and help each other before asking an adult, so that they experience teamwork and being part of a community. As they get older, more confident and self-aware, they will naturally begin to develop their capacity for independent thought.

Daily Schedule

Classes begin at 8:15 a.m. with dismissal at 3:15 p.m. Physical Education classes are taught daily in a full-size gymnasium by a physical education instructor. Art, Music, and Spanish taught by specialists are an integral part of CLMS curriculum. Children bring their own lunches. The meal is eaten together with their teachers. This is a wonderful opportunity for the children to practice manners, courtesy and social skills.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The Lower Elementary students take several off-campus field trips during the school year as well as an overnight trip to The Farm Experience in Elizabeth, IL. The students also participate in the annual Science Fair.