Montessori Student Teaching

[vandyteacher]

I am a college senior, and will be completing my student teaching in a Montessori classroom. Does anyone have advice or insight about teaching in a Montessori school? All of my classroom experiences have been in traditional schools, so I'm not sure what to expect. The class that I'll be in has students ranging from age 6-9, so I'm a little nervous about managing kids of such different ages. I'm also wondering if anyone has ideas of how to make the most of my student teaching experience. I want to be as helpful as possible to my teacher, and also make sure that I am prepared for my own classroom next year. Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Boxcar]

I've seen Montissouri classrooms, but I've never taught in one. I know the philosophies behind the methods a little bit. From what I understand, the children move from routine to routine without much guidence from the teacher. There is very little talking. Toys and materials are self-checking and provide immediate feedback. As the teacher, you provide the enviroment and step back to allow the children to take over in the structured learning.

I know that Montessori schools can be very good for children with disorders like Autism. This is because of the great deal of structure and perdictiblity.

[vandyteacher]

My last experience (over the summer) was teaching in a very structured environment. Do you have any tips or warning before I begin teaching in the Montessori classroom?

[Ebeth]

I don't know a lot about Montessori schools. When it comes to your student teaching, ask your teacher how you can help. I don't know too many teachers who will turn that one down. I know that I would want my student teacher engaged with my students as much as possible. While you are there to observe, I can't stand the thought of a student teacher just sitting and watching all the time. This is your on the job training so it is time to get into the trenches and go for it as much as your teacher allows. Good Luck!