Cultural studies form the core of the Elementary 2 literacy work. the three-year history and geography cycles covers early Humans, Great Civilizations, American and Minnesota studies. The cultural studies are integrated with reading, writing and speech activities. Novel studies may relate to the period of history being explored. The children are frequently involved in independent and small group research that culminates in reports, displays, projects and presentations.
Students in the Montessori E2 classroom are required to handle a more labor-intensive assignment load. E2 students make the transition from working with concrete manipulatives in both the EC and E1 classrooms to more abstract concepts and assignments. Assignments generally center on paper and pencil tasks that are abstract and require problem solving and reasoning skills. Assignments are given in a steady stream and typically will take one to three days to complete.
Students in the Montessori E2 classroom put energy and effort into developing solid work habits. Handling a labor-intensive workload requires organization, planning, and self-direction. Students use a planner and document all assignments and due dates. This helps with the planning and completion of assignments. It is also an indirect preparation for middle school, where students are required to document assignments from a variety of teachers and classes.
