|
The KMS Elementary Program meets the State of Tennessee curriculum guidelines while progressively moving students from concrete learning procedures to more abstract analytic processes.
The Elementary classroom relies on the student assuming greater responsibility and initiative in the learning process. Traditional activities are blended with Montessori materials to continue the strong emphasis on language and math development. A consistent focus on problem-solving governs classroom interaction.
The curriculum is organized into five major areas.
- Language: Reading, writing, spelling, and oral expression are at the center of the curriculum. Research projects are used to integrate reading and writing skills. There are afternoon French lessons and weekly library visits.
- Mathematics: Mathematical abstractions -- including numeration, place value, geometry, algebra, and the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division -- are introduced according to each student's readiness. Math problem-solving is increasingly used to develop applied math skills.
- Culture: Cultural subjects such as history, science, art, and music are presented in both group and individual lessons. Classroom work is supplemented by regular field trips to plays, concerts, museums, and other cultural events and institutions. Each week there is an afternoon group art lesson.
- Advanced Geography: Montessori map work becomes more detailed, with students identifying all countries, major cities, bodies of water, and major landforms.
- Recreation: The hour set aside each day for play provides an outlet that contributes to students' physical development and enhances their social skills. During winter months, students enjoy Friday afternoon ice skating lessons.
In addition to the core curriculum, Elementary students also enjoy art, music and regular visits to the library. Carefully chosen field trips to plays, concerts, museums, and other local events and activities supplement classroom work.
Related Links
- For information about what schools our students attend after they graduate, see Beyond KMS.
|
