Our Montessori class in Urban Indianapolis is a model classroom because we integrate Montessori philosophies and state mandated standards and assessments. Our reading is not designed around text books, however uses actual books we check out from the library.
My students are first through third graders.
I am so very lucky to be their teacher for these three years. I am able to find what really motivates the children. With Dr. Montessori's philosophy our community becomes a true family.
Another aspect of education that I feel is very vital is making sure that the children know that we live in a very small part of the world. There is a vast world out there with different traditions, languages, homes, art, history, beliefs and so much more. One way to explain this is through the simple story of 'Cinderella'.
My Project
Since Montessori schools work on a three-year cycle, we can cover many things in depth. In our classroom, we spend the three years traveling to different continents. Within each continent, we delve a bit deeper into the different countries. (Passport, baggage and luggage all included!)
The story of Cinderella has been written in many of these different countries. It is going to be quite a learning exercise in finding the similarities between these stories. Finding the differences is going to be very enlightening!
Cinderella has been around for centuries, and most of the children from the United States have heard just one version. However there are so many different cultures that have built upon the same idea but with their cultural traditions. (China, Russia, Korea, Egypt, Mexico and even different cultures within America) There are also wonderful stories that give a different perspective for the reader to enjoy!
It is our responsible learn about other countries.
Using a 'fairy tale' is certain not going to give us all of the information we will need to learn about another member of our global community, however it will be a fun starting point.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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