Comparing Montessori

"The secret of good teaching is to regard the child's intelligence as fertile field in which seeds may be sown, to grow under the heat of flaming imagination. Our aim is not only to make the child understand, and still less to force him to memorize, but so to touch his imagination as to enthuse him to his innermost core. We do not want complacent pupils, but eager ones. We seek to sow life in the child rather than theories, to help him in his growth, mental and emotional as well as physical and for that we must offer grand and lofty ideas to the human mind."--Maria Montessori


Following an interest.

What makes Montessori different?

Montessori Program

Traditional Program

Individualized instruction so students may excel at their separate pace.

Large group lessons--everyone at the same pace.

Universal values (honesty, respect, compassion, fairness, etc.) are an integral part to the classroom to create a community.

Values not emphasized.

Independent learning and research to foster life-long learners.

Teacher-centered learning.

Thinking skills are nurtured and emphasis is placed on thoroughly understanding concepts.

Rote learning and memorization.

Multi-age classes

Same-age classes

Children encouraged to choose work from their own interests and abilities.

Teacher chooses work and curriculum.

25 Characteristics of a Montessori Education

  1. Respect for the Child
  2. Respect for One Another
  3. Cultural Diversity
  4. Universal Adaptability
  5. Cosmic Education
  6. Individuality
  7. Independence
  8. Freedom of Choice
  9. Hands-on Learning
  10. Love of Work
  11. Care of One's Self
  12. Spontaneous Concentration
  13. Self-Discipline
  14. Lessons of Grace and Courtesy
  15. Intrinsic Motivation
  16. Initiative
  17. Prepared Environment
  18. Didactic Materials
  19. Integrated Curriculum
  20. Sense of Order
  21. Heterogeneous Grouping
  22. Refinement of the Senses
  23. Movement
  24. Auto Education
  25. Teacher as Facilitator
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