Curriculum

Secondary I: Syllabus

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS:

1. OVERVIEW OF EARLY CHILDHOOD AND ELEMENTARY

This course consists of an overview of the Montessori curriculum in the Early Childhood and Elementary.

2. MONTESSORI PHILOSOPHY AND EDUCATION THEORY IN SECONDARY EDUCATION

This course component is intended to introduce and give opportunities for practical application of the Montessori philosophy and theory as it applies to each plane of development with the emphasis on early adolescents.

3. ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY:

This course gives an overview of the physical, cognitive, psychological, social, and moral/spiritual development of humans from birth to adulthood with emphasis upon the developmental characteristics of the early adolescent.

4. HISTORY, CURRENT TRENDS AND ISSUES IN SECONDARY EDUCATION

This course will explore the writings of Montessori regarding adolescent development and education as well as the various adaptations of her theories in light of current research and best practices currently employed by Montessori or Montessori-based secondary programs.

5. OBSERVATIONS, RECORD-KEEPING AND ASSESSMENT

This course will include a survey of various record-keeping and reporting models and assessment tools. Students will observe several different Montessori adolescent programs.

6. ORGANIZATION, STRUCTURE AND OPERATION OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS

This course includes a survey and observations of various Montessori-based adolescent programs.

7. CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT DESIGNING PERSONALIZED INTEGRATED AND EXPERIENTIAL ORIENTED CURRICULUM FOR EARLY ADOLESCENTS 12-15.

This course offers curriculum resources, integrated models, and learning experiences in all areas of the Montessori early adolescent curriculum including: language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, visual and performing arts, physical education and practical life, including peace education, economics, technology, community service and outdoor education.

8. TEACHING STRATEGIES

This course includes teaching to multiple intelligences, learning how to learn, study and test-taking skills, critical and creative thinking, assessment of needs, various grouping models, time management, creation of a prepared learning environment and curriculum planning.

9. CLASSROOM LEADERSHIP

This course is a study of the various roles and characteristics of a successful secondary Montessori teacher.

10. COMMUNICATION AND COUNSELING SKILLS

This course includes counseling and communications strategies for individuals and groups of adolescents with emphasis on the development of verbal and non-verbal communication skills, problem-solving techniques and intrapersonal, interpersonal and community building activities.

11. INDEPENDENT STUDY/RESEARCH

This course will require an independent study in the form of a research project.

12. PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE (Student Teaching)

This component consists of a student teaching in a Montessori early adolescent program designed for ages 12 through 15.