The Montessori Curriculum
All classes, in all our programs, follow a common set of internationally recognized Montessori curricular guidelines. Our school prides itself in running a MACTE accredited program.
The curriculum is divided into three streams that flow together to make a whole. The first stream of the curriculum is teaching the foundations for future learning. These include fundamental lessons such as reading, writing, math, etc. The second stream is designed to spark interest and joy of learning through diverse and exciting concepts both in life skills and core subjects. As a child-honouring curriculum, our third stream focuses on the child and their individual interests. Through projects and research, they can explore the world and areas of interest to them.
Teaching focuses on the child’s experience, characterized by self-directed activity, whereas the teacher’s role in the classroom is more observational. Student progress is discussed regularly with parents and strategies are shared if students are experiencing difficulties. Each classroom has a three-year, multi-aged span, where students can learn in individual or small group lessons for core subjects. Uninterrupted work periods allow the children to progress at their own pace.
Casa Program Ages 3 – 5
Children entering the classroom at age three are introduced to “Practical Life” exercises such as pouring, polishing and buttoning, which he/she may already be familiar with at home. They will immediately feel a sense of accomplishment and these tasks will help him/her develop concentration and motor coordination. These skills are necessary for more advanced exercises, along with increased independence and self-discipline. Individual use of different materials allows for a varied work pace that accommodates many levels of ability and eliminates competition. Children are encouraged to move around and work individually or in groups. Socialization is very important at this age and children develop the basics of co-operation and sharing. As the child’s skills increase he/she are gradually introduced, through concrete experiences, to the areas of language, mathematics, culture, music, and art. Through their sensorial work, students are introduced to materials that require the use of their 5 senses which is key to intellectual growth. In keeping with the Montessori philosophy, each day the children can work in each area of the classroom, according to their individual needs. It is at this age that students develop their concentration, coordination, order, and independence.
Children must be toilet trained and are on a one-month probationary period.
Lower Elementary Ages 6 – 9
Upper Elementary Ages 9 – 12
Adolescence
The vision of the FMA Adolescent Classroom is to create an environment rooted in Dr. Maria Montessori’s educational principles, suited to the unique needs of the adolescent in their third stage of development. Adolescents work side by side with trained adult guides in creating a supportive and respectful community where everyone can feel support and belonging. We strive for a community which values excellence, integrity, creativity, and active participation of its members. Through the fostering of these values and ideals we will help our adolescents take their first steps toward being engaged, socially conscious, educated, and contributing members of society.
12-14 years old
FMA offers a 6-week summer program for interested Casa parents. This program will only run if there is a minimum of 15 interested parties. The program is only offered to our current Casa students (even those moving to our Lower Elementary level) and incoming fall students, however, space is limited and offered first to our current students.
The Montessori philosophy will continue to be upheld, especially with Grace and Courtesy, while students follow a themed-based program. We will start after the July 1st weekend and continue until the August long weekend. Set dates will be announced by March. Due to the fact that it is only 6 weeks, we will need a full commitment from interested parents to run our program. You may choose for your child to only attend certain weeks, however, our price will remain the same.
Elementary students have French classes four days a week. For the younger elementary students, the French program is based on an oral comprehension of the French language. The children learn vocabulary and conversational skills while singing songs and playing games. As they advance in age, the Elementary program takes a holistic approach to learning French. Its aims are to prepare students for real-life situations by teaching them communication skills, language knowledge such as grammar, vocabulary, and an appreciation for French culture.
At the Casa level, students are introduced to Spanish through 60-minutes a week of enriching activities. Children learn the language through song, socializing, and thematic units of study.
The Visual Arts program is an integral component of our Montessori curriculum. Art History, Appreciation and Art Production provide meaningful experiences for the students and promote their individual expressions and creativity. In addition to art classes, students are encouraged to illustrate their journals and cultural projects on an ongoing basis.
