Australia Research



In the past few weeks the students in Room 106 have been doing many researches as a part of their work in the cultural subject area of the curriculum. The students learn to do research by finding answers to questions on a research form. Much of their research work is done in the library where the librarians guide students to appropriate resource materials and when necessary assist them in finding answers.    The topics that the students have been working on include the planets, states, fish, porifera and Australia. First year students start by finding the answers to two or three questions. Second and third year students learn to use multiple resources to find answers and information. In addition to the resources in the library and classroom the students also are also learning to use the classroom tablet.  The final step is doing a project to illustrate the topic of the research.  The students’ crayon resist paintings of fish and porifera are now on display in our classroom art gallery. 

 

Math Facts

“Shouldn’t my child be memorizing his Math facts?” Lower Elementary students at TMA practice math operations by using Montessori learning materials to gain a strong foundation before they begin to memorize the facts. As Montessorians – and as brain studies are now reinforcing – we know that those concepts of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division must be understood and internalized first before truly understanding the more theoretical application. The Montessori math curriculum is designed so that the child learns and “owns” each concept completely before memorizing.  Memorization of math facts takes time.  Memorization uses short term memory and, as a result, facts can be easily forgotten. True learning occurs when a concept is internalized through experience and established in our long term memory.

Math facts are learned and internalized over the course of a three- year continuum in our Montessori classrooms. Flashcards and drills may have their place, but if forced too early, they take away from the process of self-discovery.  Trust the Montessori method and patiently watch your children grow and discover.

Addition with the Decimal Materials

Stamp Game Multiplication
 

Sumerians

The 4^th year students have finished their history unit on the Sumerians. There were many imaginative end projects using a variety of mediums.

 

 

 

With the holiday season fast approaching you may wonder how lower elementary discovers world wide holidays?

One of the strengths of TMA is the diversity of the families who comprise our community. So when it comes to celebrations and festivals, we are open and inclusive.  We invite our children to share their traditions and celebrations. Our goal is to treat holidays as cultural observances. We invite children to sample typical foods, hear stories and or create a project. From learning about Diwali, Kwanzaa or a birthday celebration...we do not embrace one celebration but respectfully show the many beliefs people have, and the ways in which they celebrate

We encourage you to share a family tradition or celebration with us!