GRADES 3-4

Public speaking, writing and reading are part of every school day. We use a variety of Montessori materials to cover parts of speech, practice proper punctuation, build complex sentence structure and develop solid paragraphs. Our writing program, based on Lucy Calkins Writer’s Workshop, includes research and informational writing as well as the writing of creative stories, personal narratives and poetry. There are novel studies which allow for an analysis of literary features as well as rich discussion on plot, characters, settings and vocabulary.

We use a variety of Montessori materials, hands on and visual tools, to continue building on concrete and abstract mathematical concepts and operations. A variety of math resources are used in class to cover whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percentages, word problems, and the graphing of data. Geometry concepts of angles, area, perimeter, and volume of a variety of shapes, are explored throughout the year.

Culture and civilizations are studied on a worldly basis, with a focus on the emotional, social, physical, and economic needs of different civilizations. We actively guide our students, with the realization, on how diversity, equity and inclusion can strengthen a community. There is a two year rotation of other topics. In year one, the focus is on the growth of the American Nation focusing on Native Americans, Immigrants, US and Michigan history. In year two, we focus on the timeline and needs of humans, ancient civilizations, map and globe skills, continents, countries and their flags as well as government and the economy.

There is a two year rotation of biological and physical sciences with a focus in STEM topics in science. Biological sciences include the evolutionary development of plants and animals. Various biomes on Earth are discussed with the focus of how life forms and needs are met. Physical Sciences include the formation of the universe and its celestial bodies, down to the periodic table. Simple machines and systems are explored based on the scientific method with the recording and graphing of data.

Students are guided and encouraged to learn accountability and independence, by building a positive self-awareness, through actions and leadership opportunities. Students live the Montessori philosophy, through their involvement in their community, school, classroom, home and beyond, while building responsibility for themselves and realizing their impact on society.