LOWER ELEMENTARY "Exuberance is Beauty" - William Blake Grades 1 through 3 Children in Montessori environments simply move around and communicate more than students in traditional classrooms. They work together cooperatively on projects, they are encouraged to discuss their work with each other, and to help each other. In a more formal fashion, oral reports and class discussions are held on a variety of interesting topics. Lower Elementary students want to know the how and why of things and events, and this curiosity necessitates a great deal of discussion. In the process, more than just reporting is learned: students gain a respect for each other as they listen carefully, and wait for a speaker to complete their thought. Much of the discussion may focus on a "going out" or field trip. Such an experience results in much more than the immediate facts learned. One child suddenly sees a talent in a friend she hardly knew before, and a friendship is begun. Another child becomes so proud of the fact that he has survived several days without parental help - an important step on the road to independence. Another child discovers she has great observational skills. One child realizes that he needs to get more organized in order to function as an independent person. A community is being learned and formed. The Montessori curriculum is so integrated that a look at fruit and seeds takes the students in many directions: going to the garden, dissecting fruits, learning math concepts and new vocabulary, developing cooking skills, and creating beautiful artwork. There are 100 students in the four mixed-age 6-9 year old classes. Each class consists of approximately 25 students with a full-time Montessori trained guide and an assistant. Most classes go on two overnight "Earth Experiences"/camp-outs each year, and cultivates a garden for use by the class. Child Care is available before and after school. There are also a number of Special Programs for Lower Elementary students. | home page | site map | e-mail | 14750 SE Clinton St, Portland, OR 97236 | tel (503) 760-8220 | fax (503) 760-8333 | Websystem design and hosting provided by WolfPk - FMES/SFA alumni. Copyright © 1999-2010 Franciscan Montessori Earth School. Legal Information