How does a Montessori classroom differ from a Traditional classroom?

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Montessori Classroom

• Classroom is prepared in advance based on the individual needs of the child
• Student-centered lessons and activities
• Lessons are hands on so the students may discover for themselves
• Children are allowed to work on lessons as long as needed with minimal or no interruption
• Teachers are there to guide the child through their own learning path
• Grade levels are determined by the development range of the child and are flexible
• Curriculum responds to the child's needs
• Individual workspace is honored and encouraged
• Fosters self-esteem through internal sense of pride from accomplishments
• Children develop a love of learning through handling materials themselves and working at their own pace

Traditional Classroom

• Based on teacher-centered lesson plans and activities
• Lessons are geared more towards listening, memorizing and taking tests
• Schedules often create time restraints when working
• Teachers have a specific pace and lessons are predetermined
• Grade levels are strictly determined by chronological age within a 12 month period and are in-flexible
• Curriculum is predetermined
• Children are expected to work at the same pace
• Self-esteem is developed through external judgement and validation
• Children learn because it is mandatory