The Social and Moral Shift
from Elementary to Adolescence
The driving question for the elementary-aged child is “why?”... The new questions that come into play for the adolescent are “How does this relate to my life and my world?”
The driving question for the elementary-aged child is “why?” It is with this question in mind that we provide them with the keys to the Universe through Montessori’s Cosmic Education Curriculum. While “why?” is the motivating question, one of the key characteristics of the elementary-age child is the orientation towards group life, or better known as “the herd instinct.” The elementary years are an important in that they encompass a time of intense intellectual growth and the ability for moral reasoning. Montessori feeds and nurtures these by sowing as many seeds of culture as possible so as to develop strong foundation for the work of adolescence.
The new questions that come into play for the adolescent are “How does this relate to my life and my world?” “How will I apply what I know?” Using the seeds of culture (the natural laws they have studied and formulas that I have learned) “How can I save the world?” It is as though they are forming a chrysalis from which the adult will emerge with a strong understanding of who they are and what is their relationship to society. All the while, the adolescent needs to acknowledge that they are a member of society and accept that dual responsibilities of being an active member of the society while remaining true to oneself. Their focus has now shifted from the “herd instinct” of the elementary-aged child that has guided them towards society, to a deeper and broader understanding of and sensitivity about who they are and what their role is.
Article written by Christine Blais, Upper Elementary Guide
Elementary Program
MSGH offers a Lower Elementary Program for children ages 6 to 9 and an Upper Elementary Program for ages 9 to 12. Both are designed to appeal and respond to the universal characteristics of elementary-age children, including their:
- overwhelming curiosity;
- ability to think abstractly and use logic and reason;
- strong and active imaginations;
- preference for learning material in multiple ways, instead of by rote repetition;
- great desire to expand their social skills and work with others;
- strong sense of fairness and justice.
Adolescent Program
The Adolescent Program at MSGH demonstrates consideration for the appropriate intellectual, social, physical, aesthetic, emotional and ethical development of students in all aspects of school and student life. The campus is located on a 30-acre farm with goats, sheep, chickens, honey bees, gardens, fields, woodlands, ponds, streams and a river. The environment, the curriculum and the guides (teachers) at the Adolescent Program provide opportunities for students, ages 13 to 15 years, reach their maximum potential with these acedemic subjects:
- World Language;
- Humanities ;
- Language and Literature;
- Mathematics;
- Science/Occupations;
- Art;
- Music and Theater;
- Physical Education.
