Language – The Language area begins with exercises in listening and oral development. The students are introduced to the sandpaper letters , from which they learn both sound and symbol. The metal insets prepare the student for holding a pencil and writing. Additional activities include; word building (spelling), reading, grammar and creative writing.

Math – The student physically manipulates the math materials giving them a concrete introduction to math. Rods, spindles and colored beads are used. The student gains a thorough understanding of numbers, symbols, sequence, operations and memorization of basic facts.

Practical Life – The practical life exercises lay the foundation for all other work. The student develops concentration skills, muscular coordination, attention to detail and organization skills. Through completing these tasks care of self, care of environment and grace and courtesy are gained. Such activities include; pouring, transferring and polishing.

Sensorial – The Sensorial materials allow the student to explore sizes, dimensions, grading and sequencing. The materials refine the child’s sense of sight, sound, touch, taste and smell.

Geography – The geography materials are exciting and enriching to the young child. The parts of the Earth (land, air and water) are introduced. The student learns different locations of continents, countries etc. Cultural celebrations and studies allow the student to think about the world around them.

History – The student is introduced to seasons, days of the week, months of the year, telling time and time lines.

Science (Botany, Zoology, Others) – The Science materials allow the student to observe, experiment and demonstrate. They help teach the student cause and affect. Activities include; sink/float, magnetic/non-magnetic, living/non-living, and plant/animal sorting.

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A certified private school, the lower elementary program at ACM serves children from 5-9 years of age. Most of our students already have a solid academic foundation which they continue to develop while they are encouraged to pursue their own passion and move from concrete to abstract at a natural pace. Children at this age are becoming more interested in fairness, distinguishing right from wrong, and are developing moral values. Social concerns are very important to them. They are also becoming more aware and interested in the world around them. Our program nourishes a love of learning, curiousity, self-motivation and respect for self, others, and environment.

Language Arts – As children between the ages of five to nine are learning and perfecting their reading skills, reading is an integral part of our curriculum and is extended into all other areas. The language curriculum also includes grammar, writing, mechanics of writing, spelling, handwriting, and research skills.

Math – Mathematical concepts are presented by using concrete materials. As students develop a thorough understanding they move toward conceptual understanding and abstraction. Math subjects include operations, geometry, time, money, problem solving and algebra.

Science/History/Geography – Elementary aged children have a natural curiosity about the how and why things work. Science, History, and Geography are of great interest and an important part of the 5-9 curriculum. Hands on materials, science experiments and research help students to develop a better understanding in subject areas including botany, zoology, physics, age of the universe, timeline of life and people, US history, physical/cultural and political geography.

The Montessori Great Lessons – The Great Lessons encompass the child’s gradual discovery of how things on earth are interrelated. It is through the great lessons that children develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.