Explaining the Montessori Science Curriculum

Understanding the Montessori Approach to Science

Like everything in Montessori education, the approach to science is one of hands-on, experiential learning. It builds on a child’s natural curiosity about the world, allowing them to use their senses to explore what they can see and touch. For concepts like space, which cannot be seen and touched, nomenclature cards and visuals bring in the senses and the ability to explore.

What Does the Montessori Science Curriculum Include?

In addition, the science curriculum is interconnected with other curriculum using the tool of storytelling. The core principle is Cosmic Education, the idea that everything in the universe is connected and children should be able to explore that interconnectivity. Students learn through Montessori Impressionistic Charts, which provide visual symbols to represent science concepts like the solar system or water cycle. Hands-on experimentation using real scientific tools, like microscopes, beakers, and droppers, is commonplace in the Montessori classroom.



While connectivity and exploration are the main focus, there are specific areas of study that you will find in the Montessori classroom.

Biology & Life Sciences

Young Montessori students are fascinated by the animal world, and that becomes a strong focus of the biology and life sciences curriculum, especially with very young learners. They will learn about the geological timeline, the origin of life, zoology, and botany topics. When possible, the curriculum includes live animals and plants to care for while learning. Gardening, for example, can teach about plant life cycles, growth, photosynthesis, and more. The biology and life sciences curriculum also covers the human body in the Health Sciences section. Students will learn about the five senses, personal hygiene, and germ prevention.

Earth & Space Sciences

The earth and space sciences portion of the curriculum has three main components: geology and geography, meteorology, and astronomy. First, students learn about the structures of the earth and how they were formed, with a specific focus on rocks, plate tectonics, and mountains. They will also learn about the water cycle in the geology and geography learning sessions.

In meteorology, students learn about weather patterns and the Earth’s atmosphere. It’s common to see a rain gauge outside of the classroom for hands-on meteorology learning.



Finally, astronomy focuses on learning about the planets, celestial bodies, and solar systems. Students will often learn the technology used in studying space as well.

Physics

When learning about physics, students will study the types of energy. This study lends itself well to hands-on activities, such as seeing how energy transfers when two objects collide. The study of energy easily segues into the study of renewable and non-renewable energy sources.



Physics lessons also study waves, motion, and force. Again, these concepts are easily turned into hands-on experiments where students learn by doing. This study also lends itself well to exploration of simple machines, like levers and pulleys, as they make the transfer of energy easier.

Chemistry

Chemical reactions, atoms, molecules, and compounds are the focus of chemistry study at the Montessori Elementary School. When possible, hands-on learning is the focus of these lessons. Watching actual chemical reactions and then learning the math and science behind them is more effective than simply learning the formulas on paper.

Environmental Sciences

Montessori instructors have a heavy emphasis on the environment and how to care for it. Environmental awareness is a focus of much of the science learning, starting with ecology lessons. Students will learn about the earth’s biomes, the balance of nature, and the impact of human action on that balance.



Learning about ecology naturally moves into learning about conservation and the steps to take to protect the environment. Students learn about the importance of preserving natural resources and how humans are hurting the environment through deforestation, climate change, and similar issues.

How Montessori Science Aligns with State Standards

Montessori science curriculum focuses on hands-on learning, but that does not mean it ignores state standards. The curriculum takes the same concepts but teaches them through hands-on experimentation and observation rather than memorization. In addition, the interdisciplinary learning model, which is inherent to Montessori learning, means that science concepts often connect to other subjects. Students receive a robust education that aligns with state standards and encourages a curiosity about their world that can turn many into scientists.

Connecting Math & Technology to Montessori Science

Montessori science lessons integrate math concepts into the learning model. While observing a plant during a botany lesson, students will practice measurement. Over time as they take more measurements, they can add, average, and estimate. During physics lessons, they may learn mathematical formulas that help them practice multiplication. Chemistry lessons on the molecule can also include lessons on geometric shapes.

Technology is naturally part of science learning. Using microscopes, meters, and thermometers gives practice with technology. Students in older elementary grades can rely on computers to help them collect and analyze data during experiments.

Often, the math and technology concepts learned through this type of hands-on learning are better retained than those learned simply with rote memorization and practice worksheets. Because math and technology skills are used to solve practical, real-life problems, they are more easily retained. This retention, in turn, means students often excel in high school.

Inspiring Young Scientists at Mansio Montessori

At Mansio Montessori, we are passionate about taking a child’s natural creativity and curiosity, and transforming that into solid learning. We inspire young scientists to take an active role in their world and help them see their part in it. Through the Montessori method, science comes alive.

If you are curious to see how a science lesson works in this setting, schedule a tour of Mansio Montessori today. You can also learn more about our programs or enrollment options.