Stage 3

 

Stage 3 is a multi-age classroom consisting of 9 to 12 year old students.

It contains groups of students of various ages working, playing, and learning together. 
 

All students work at their own pace in accord with their individual ability.

Gifted children perform at their own accelerated pace. A Montessori student can take learning as far as he/she is capable. 
 

Students who need more time are given what they need to progress confidently and without loss of self esteem. 
 

9 to 12 year old students are more social than younger children. Group activities and group norms become matters of great importance.

Our Montessori primary class uses the peer group to teach team contribution, fairness, respectful behaviour and consideration of others. 
 

The students are guided towards developing their organisational and decision making skills so they can work independently on projects of their own interest. 
 

Cosmic Education (the integrated curriculum) includes the areas of geography, biology, history, language, maths, geometry and also physics, chemistry, music and art. Montessori classrooms use special stories of the universe and the earth which connects with geography. We have a story of the evolution of life, which connects with biology or the exploration of animals and plants, their function, and interrelationship with each other and the Earth. We have the story of human beings, which connects with human history. The 9-12 age group study civilisations through the great stories, as well as the stories of language and maths. The last great story, “The Great River”, clearly relates to biology and is relevant for human/economic geography and human history. 

“Treat the child with the best of good manners and offer him/her the best you have in yourself and at your disposal”

  

“We aim to provide the Montessori Method of individualised education, focusing on respect for the child which facilitates a love of learning, confidence, independence, self-discipline, motivation and respect.”

  

Montessori teachers give a grand vision of the whole, and then facilitate the exploration of the subject area in smaller detail. Studying different ‘Time Lines’ helps students to develop a sense of time. Later on they can create their own ‘Time Lines’ of human discoveries, art and music etc. 
 

Stage 3 offers a continuum based on earlier learning experiences.

The curriculum set by the NSW Board of Studies is covered by using the Montessori Method of learning. Advanced mathematical concepts, algebra and geometry are introduced using the special Montessori materials.

Through the primary years the students develop a strong sense of personal responsibility and time management. They build research and study skills that can be used throughout their future years.