Elementary
6-12 years
Dr. Montessori observed that the Elementary child is characterized by unique qualities and is oriented toward intellectual investigation and discovery. In an exciting research style of learning, elementary children work in small groups on a variety of projects which spark the imagination and engage the intellect. Lessons given by trained Montessori teachers direct the children toward activities which help them to develop reasoning abilities and life skills. The appetite of the children at this age, to understand the universe and their place in it, directs the elementary work toward all aspects of culture.
In the MSO elementary classroom, the children realize that geography, biology, history, language, science, music, art and all branches of mathematics are interconnected parts of life, and not individual subjects to be studied. “Great Stories” are told throughout the elementary years, and are used as a springboard for learning in an interdisciplinary environment. Each “Great Story” leads to study in several disciplines. Within each discipline, numerous subjects are explored. These stories are intended to spark the imagination of an elementary age child and inspire them to want to know more. Research forms a strong core of classroom work. Exploration of each area is encouraged through trips outside the classroom to community resources, such as a library, planetarium, science center, historical sites or a shopping mall. This inclusive approach to education fosters a feeling of connectedness to all humanity, and encourages the child’s desire to make contributions to the world. Families seeking Montessori schools in Fairfax, Oakton and Vienna VA often appreciate this interdisciplinary approach.
The elementary Montessori curriculum is perfectly suited to the needs of 6 – 12 year olds, and is extraordinarily comprehensive.
Mathematics
A strong understanding of basic concepts is the foundation for complex ideas in mathematics. These ideas are presented concretely with materials that guide the child towards abstraction in the areas of arithmetic, geometry and algebra.
Language
Fundamentals of spoken and written language were first introduced in the Primary classroom. In the elementary class the children explore the need for communication and how language was invented. Beyond reading, writing and spelling, elementary students study word functions, grammar, sentence structure and parts of speech. This leads the child to further exploration of a variety of genres and writers of great literature and the perfection of their own written compositions.
History
is the core of what Dr. Montessori called “Cosmic Education”. Stories about the origins of the universe, the history of human beings, exploration of different cultures and the contributions of individuals through time, help to capture the imagination of the child. Carefully interwoven lessons allow the child to learn to read, conduct research and write about subjects that have fascinated them.
Science
Young elementary students begin to explore the fundamental concepts of science as extensions of History lessons. Astronomy, Geology, Chemistry and the underlying principles of Physics are presented through exciting hands-on demonstrations. The children learn to perform independent experiments, using proper scientific technique and observation recording.
Nature
An in-depth study of botany and zoology is conducted inside and outside the classroom. The children explore ecology, the interconnected nature of our world and their role in it.
Artistic Expression
Art, music and drama provide the basis for artistic expression in the classroom. Lessons in drawing, painting, art history, book making and hand work fuel the child’s creations. Music is presented as a language, using an approach that includes singing, listening, music theory, movement, composition and music history. The children are encouraged to express themselves in all artistic areas.
Physical Education
The overall goal of our physical education program is to introduce our students to fitness and sports, which in turn helps encourage each child to reach his personal fitness level while having fun with his/her classmates. These activities also help to foster cooperation and teamwork in other areas outside of the physical education class.
Hours
- Elementary ages 6 – 12 8:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. Monday – Friday
The Montessori School of Oakton is designed to be a school where children can blossom! We strive to be flexible and creative in addressing each student as a unique individual. All children’s different learning styles are nurtured. Kinesthetic, auditory and visual methods are easily integrated into the presentation of the curriculum.
Learning the right answers will get you through school. Learning how to learn will get you through life! MSO is a great place to learn how to learn in a lasting way, and offers an excellent preparation for the academic environments of higher education. Our goal is not only to give students an outstanding education but to prepare them for life.
FAQ's about our Primary Program
“MSO has made such a positive impact in my children’s lives, setting them on a course for independent learning and curiosity that will guide them for life. It has also made a positive impact on our family overall providing a space where we have made lifelong friends.”
Diana Rothe-Smith
“The solid Montessori program is what brought us to the school initially, but it is the heart of MSO which has kept us here."
An MSO Parent
“I have three grandchildren attending The Montessori School of Oakton. They love it and they love learning!"
A Montessori Grandparent
“We would like to thank you for giving our two girls a great foundation. We were happy to be a part of the MSO family for three years."
