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