Primary
Ages 3 years to 6.5 years
Our Primary program, designed for children aged approximately 3 - 6.5 years, is a distinctive and child-centered educational approach crafted to ignite the natural curiosity and independence of young learners.
Multi-age classrooms are thoughtfully prepared to provide an atmosphere that encourages self-directed exploration and hands-on learning experiences. Dedicated Montessori guides serve as facilitators, keenly observing each child's unique interests and customizing the scope and sequence of lessons to cater to each child’s individual needs. A comprehensive curriculum spans practical life skills, sensorial experiences, language development, mathematics, cultural studies, and creative arts, creating a well-rounded foundation for holistic growth. Our program is grounded in the belief that allowing children to learn at their own pace fosters a profound sense of responsibility and respect for the environment and peers. As learners progress through their three-year Primary cycle, they refine their capacity to work autonomously, enhance concentration, and develop advanced skills in reading, writing, and mathematics that lay the groundwork for a robust Elementary education experience.
Program Highlights
Follows the American Montessori Society (AMS) scope and sequence of lesson presentation.
Six core areas of curriculum, including Language, Art, Practical Life, Sensorial, Culture and Science, and Mathematics.
Multi-age classroom environment encourages children to collaborate with classmates and take ownership of their education.
Academic Afternoon session serves Kindergarten learners with additional teaching time and transition plans for Upper School.
Heggerty Phonemic Awareness Program.
Social Emotional Learning and “peace” education to learn appropriate conflict resolution.
In-class enrichment programs, including music and nature hikes.
Close communication with families.
Transparent Classroom
We prioritize clear communication with Primary parents through Transparent Classroom, a Montessori-focused student record-keeping system. Our educators introduce over 1000 lessons to each student throughout the 3-year Primary program, from Practical Life lessons such as tying shoe laces to complex math lessons such as multiplication and developing an understanding of geometry. The Transparent Classroom program, enables us to develop a customized lesson plan for each student and ensure they reach their full potential in all six areas of the structured Montessori curriculum. This platform also enables us to monitor and report activities, including daily activities and group lessons. Parents receive a daily email notification summarizing these activities for seamless updates.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completing Terra School's 3-year Early Childhood Program, our Primary students emerge with exceptional academic accomplishments and a strong foundation for the challenges of the Upper School. Through our Montessori curriculum and a heightened emphasis on phonemic awareness and language arts, our graduates are well-equipped to transition seamlessly into the Elementary environment. During our “Academic Afternoon” work period for Kindergarteners, Terra learners are able to fine-tune their reading and writing skills with individualized instruction.
Primary graduates have:
Fostered self-guidance and a comprehensive understanding of planning their own work cycles.
Developed key interpersonal and critical thinking skills crucial for success.
Demonstrated proficiency in mathematical operations, as well as reading and writing.
Exhibited a well-rounded set of skills and knowledge that prepares them for continued success and is centered in an intrinsic love of learning.