Standard 1: Learner Development
means to me...
DAP
DAP or Developmentally Appropriate Practices offer guidelines to help caregivers meet the wide variety of developmental needs and abilities that children posses. During my time spent teaching in a Montessori classroom I was able to see the importance of the 12 DAP principles. Montessori schools are encouraged to create leveled classroom environments so that children can work at their own pace to meet their needs of success and challenge. This type of classroom environment optimizes learning and development.
Small Groups
Take it Outside!
Meeting with small groups during allows a me to have open discussions about misconceptions of a lesson and meet students at their developmental level with a more personal experience. Students have a chance to voice their opinions and help others understand new concepts. Small group discussions help students develop leadership, active listening, and critical thinking skills.
Being outside in nature is a need and students are getting less and less time to play outside. At Edison Elementary 3rd through 5th grade only get one 20 minute lunch recess. With public schools busy schedules and academic demands it is important to find times to get your students learning outside. Below is an example of getting my class outside to explore the ecosystem of a pond near Dancing Moose Montessori School. We took sample of the water and soil from the pond to later view through a microscope. The students were engaged and excited about learning and through this experience they were able to retain the information for later whole-group discussions.
