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
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Following an interest.
What makes Montessori different?
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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.
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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
- Respect for the Child
- Respect for One Another
- Cultural Diversity
- Universal Adaptability
- Cosmic Education
- Individuality
- Independence
- Freedom of Choice
- Hands-on Learning
- Love of Work
- Care of One's Self
- Spontaneous Concentration
- Self-Discipline
- Lessons of Grace and Courtesy
- Intrinsic Motivation
- Initiative
- Prepared Environment
- Didactic Materials
- Integrated Curriculum
- Sense of Order
- Heterogeneous Grouping
- Refinement of the Senses
- Movement
- Auto Education
- Teacher as Facilitator
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