By: Melissa De Los Santos
Montessori SchoolTraditional SchoolTeachers follow the child At Arborland, our teachers get to know the child and understand what lessons the child needs. If a child needs more time to fully comprehend a certain topic, then they are given more time to practice on it. If the student grasps the topic easily, then they will be given more challenging concepts.
Students follow the curriculum Traditional schools usually teach according to the child’s age. If a student’s age dictates that they should be in first grade, then that student will be taught the first grade curriculum – regardless of his or her actual abilities.
Students discover and learn using all five senses Arborland students get to explore their classroom and its many Montessori materials. The children get to handle these interesting multi-sensory materials that eventually teach them valuable knowledge while they are enjoying themselves!
Students learn only what the teacher tells them Students at a traditional school are taught what is on their set curriculum.
Responsibility and self-care is taught at an early age As early as the toddler years, Arborland children are taught to return their materials to their appropriate places and clean up after themselves. Good hygiene is also taught and encouraged.
Teaching responsibility and self-care is mostly left up to the parents Teaching children to be responsible of themselves and their things is not usually incorporated into the traditional curriculum.
Working with others is allowed — promoted, even! The Montessori classroom is usually abuzz with activity: older children helping the younger ones, same-age students collaborating with each other, and teachers assisting other children. Learn more about how working with others helps your child here.
Students are expected to work mostly by themselves They are usually not allowed to get up from their seats or ask their peers for help. They are expected to sit at their desks until the task is completed.
Three-year cycle: putting mixed-age children in one classroom The beauty of a mixed-age classroom is best exemplified when an older child helps a younger child understand a concept. This is beneficial for both: the younger child learns while the older child solidifies his or her understanding of the concept. Younger children also tend to mirror the good habits of the older children.
Same-age classrooms All students learn the same things.
Partial credits:
Ms. Janice Balgemino, Primary Room 8