What is cultural studies in Montessori?
Cultural studies is the Montessori curriculum area covering geography, history, botany, zoology, science, art and music. In the 3–6 classroom, children use globes, puzzle maps, land and water forms, continent folders, botany puzzles, timelines of their own life, simple experiments and music materials to learn about the world.
What this means in practice
It is often called 'the cultural area' or 'culture'.
Areas
- Geography: globes, maps, flags, land and water forms
- History: timeline of the child's life, calendar
- Botany: parts of a plant, leaf shapes
- Zoology: parts of animals, vertebrate classification
- Science: sink and float, magnetic/non-magnetic
- Art and music: bells, songs, painting
Local culture
Include local festivals, foods, music and maps.
Practical next steps
- Start with the globe.
- Add local maps and festivals.
- Include simple science.
- Connect to children's interests.
ExampleChildren in Doha study the Arabian Peninsula puzzle map and taste dates from different regions.
What to keep in mind
Be inclusive of all cultures in the class.
Common follow-up questions
Is cultural studies the fifth area?
Yes.
What age?
About 3–6.
Sources
Examples are educational illustrations with made-up names. How these answers are prepared.