Dear Parents,
Since, we do not have traditional homework in Montessori schools, home projects are assigned each month to take the place of homework. Home projects will be based on a monthly theme which is listed below. These projects are intended to be interest based and allow students to explore questions, find answers, and share information with their peers.
Please assist your child in finding the information that they need. They can use books from the library, the internet, interview friends or family who may be knowledgeable on a specific subject, etc. Students will need to provide a final written report, provide a visual aid (poster, mini-book, shadow box, mobile, clay, power-point, etc.), and present this to the class. Please help them use words they know how to read and understand and not just copy information. (If they are not yet fully reading they may dictate their report and have you write it for them).
Sometimes, students come to class having only prepared the night before and are unable to read the words on their report, or do not really understand their subject. These projects should take several days to research and complete. It is so important to help your child understand what they are learning.
I highly encourage your child to practice presenting their report at home. This helps students know their material well enough to really engage the class and prompts more questions and interaction among students. Please have them practice so they will be fully prepared to present their project on their own.
I will provide further details and a schedule each month for the specific topic. I have also created a page at the top of the blog for a quick reference.
September: Book reports—each student will present a favorite book they have read. If they are not yet reading fluently they may choose a book someone has read to them. They will need to tell about the main characters, a brief summary of the book, and share why they liked it. As with all home projects, they will need a visual aid to accompany their report. If possible I would like them to bring the book as well. This project will be due the week of Sept. 19th.