Language:

• Grammar and Parts of Speech: As children are learning to read they are interested and enjoy learning the components of speech. The timing of these lessons, early in the child’s literary development, create an atmosphere of success. Children learn to enjoy grammar.

• Creative Writing Exercises: The children use journals to write and are encouraged to be creative. We stress individual expression that improves children’s handwriting and reading.

• Word Study: Synonyms, homonyms, antonyms, suffixes, prefixes and compound words are presented in a concrete manner. The children can work towards mastery throughout the year.

• Spelling: The children are given spelling books to work on with their parents at home and are tested on these words every Friday.

 

Reading:

• The children use a reading series, which includes a cycle of reading aloud and support material to develop comprehension.

• Research in several different topics often chosen by child's interests.

• The children individually read books of interest. We encourage reading for pleasure.

 

Literature Appreciation:

• The students enjoy a variety of classic literature either as supplemental reading or as a story read aloud to the class.

 

Mathematics:

• Introduction to Calculation: Place value, concrete expression of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and word problems. The children use journals to do daily practice in calculations as they move from the concrete materials to the abstract.

• Introduction to Fractions: Reduction of fractions, calculating with fractions, and equivalent fractions

• Squaring, Measurement, Roman Numerals

• Introduction to Geometry: Measurement of angles, introduction of terms (acute, obtuse, right angles), solid geometric figures

 

Science:

• Geography: Extensive use of maps to independently discover capitals, physical features, and location.

• Learn to use an atlas.

• Cultural Geography: Locations and descriptions of cultures.

• Land Formations: Oceans, Seas & Rivers; composition of the earth and the solar system.

• Biology: The needs, structure and function of plants and animals.

• Animal/Plant Kingdom: Vertebrate vs. Invertebrate; introduction of terms such as phylum, class, and scientific classifications.

 

History:

• Time: Clocks, Calendars, Timelines

• Prehistoric Plant and Animal Life

• Needs and Tendencies of Human Beings

• American History

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Computer Science:

Computer Science is a subject naturally fit for the Montessori environment. We have created a novel Computer Science curriculum based on the Montessori method. Children will explore core concepts in the field and how they are used. All activities have been designed in accordance with the Montessori method and include attractive materials that can be used independently.

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Latin: 

Students receive weekly Latin lessons. In learning Latin, children enhance their knowledge of grammar and syntax. Latin is the language of law, government, logic, theology and is the best preparation for learning any language. About two thirds of English words are derived from Latin. Learning Latin is an efficient way to learn grammar and provides insights into English vocabulary. It also leads to an increase in scores on standardized tests.

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Art:

The children develop an appreciation for fine arts, as artworks by various artists and in different mediums are displayed throughout the classroom. Students are introduced to many famous artists like Vincent Van Gogh, Georgia O’Keefe, Pablo Picasso, Jacob Lawrence, and Frida Kahlo. The children will also explore different styles and movements, such as Realism, Cubism, Impressionism, etc. Throughout the year, the children will use different art mediums and materials to create their own masterpieces. 

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Physical Education:

Our students will have recess daily. This includes free play and organized games. Staff will encourage cooperation, teamwork and good sportsmanship.

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Music:

• The children develop a keen ear for different types of music, as music is an important component of the daily routine. Music is played as a backdrop to the classroom activity.

• History

• Appreciation

• Singing

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Skills Developed:

• Use of Work Plan

• Time Management

• Concentration

• Completion of Tasks

• Independence

• Spelling

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Character Development:

Students are expected to be respectful of each other and the environment. Children at this age are developing lifelong character and the opportunity to be responsible will continue to serve them well as they continue to grow.

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In-House Field Trips:

In-House Field Trips are a unique feature of our Kindergarten and Elementary Programs. Twice a year, students in these classes enjoy a performance that complements the Montessori lessons taught in class. Over the years, we have had the opportunity to invite local musicians, artists, authors, historians, and scientists into our classrooms. 

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Share Your Class Night:

Share Your Class Night is a cherished tradition at Julia Brown Schools. Twice a year, parents are invited to join their child in our Montessori School. Children love showing their parents around their classroom and demonstrating their favorite Montessori materials.

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Elementary Performances:

Each semester, our Elementary students select a topic as a class to study and research in detail. Then, based on what they have learned, they put on a performance for their parents. These events are planned, produced, and performed by our students! Our trained Directresses guide students on this project as needed. See impressive presentation on the Human Body Systems here.