Ocean View Montessori School

The Masterful Montessori Maths Materials

Montessori recognised that infants possess a mathematical mind. Their problem-solving approach reveals an inherent desire to sequence, tally, group, and classify. This natural ability leads to the establishing of foundational maths skills that are further developed in the Montessori Toddler environment and enriched through the preschool years in the Montessori Children’s House.

The Montessori method emphasises hands-on, concrete learning, rooted in its philosophy. Children are introduced to mathematical concepts through specially designed materials that cater to their curiosity and developmental stages. These needs include movement, sensory engagement, and the freedom to choose and repeat activities in a fun, enriching setting.

All Montessori maths materials incorporate movement and the senses, greatly enhancing learning by providing an embodied experience of quantity and numeral. Quantity is introduced first, followed by numeral, then combined for a comprehensive understanding of numbers.

Numerous opportunities for learning lead to consolidation. For example, foundational materials for numbers 1-10 provide varied experiences in counting, ordering, writing, adding, and subtracting. This quickly progresses to exploring larger numbers, with the Seguin boards offering a mathematical and spatial understanding of teen numbers. Exploration of place value and the decimal system is facilitated with the Bank Game, using Golden Bead Material. Children enjoy playing ‘banker,’ which can lead to experimenting with all mathematical operations.

These materials are crucial for operations like multiplication and division. The Golden Beads visually represent numbers, allowing children to manipulate units, tens, hundreds, and thousands. As they engage with these materials, they transition from tangible operations to abstract methods.

The progression of Montessori maths materials is structured to ensure that children explore division and learn to perform operations while comprehending the underlying logic. Learning times tables for instance, is not a chore in the Montessori primary class. It is an enjoyable challenge with activities that encourage mastery.

Materials for geometry, algebra, fractions, and measurement unlock these subjects, revealing fascinating learning opportunities for pupils.

Benefits of the Montessori Maths Curriculum Include: 
Holistic Development: Montessori math nurtures problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.
Self-paced Learning: It respects individual learning speeds, enabling deep concept understanding.
Boosts Confidence: Hands-on materials empower children, instilling confidence to tackle complex problems.
Embraces a Growth Mindset: Step-by-step learning builds mastery.
Fosters a Love for Math: Tangible math reduces anxiety, cultivating interest from an early age.
Prepares for real-world challenges: Its practical nature bridges theoretical knowledge and real-world application.