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Lower Elementary Program

Grade 1 - 3

A dynamic stage where curiosity takes flight and learning becomes deeply interconnected. In Grades 1–3, children explore big ideas through hands-on discovery, build strong academic and social skills, and grow into confident, independent thinkers ready for greater challenges.

Montessori Academy of Virginia

Lower Elementary Program

Building a Foundation: Integrated Learning and Independence

For families who have witnessed the growth and independence fostered in our PreK-K program, the Lower Elementary Program offers a seamless and enriching continuation of your child’s Montessori journey.

Dr. Maria Montessori emphasized that education must evolve to meet the changing developmental needs of the child.  In this spirit our Lower Elementary program builds directly upon the foundation of exploration and independence established in the preschool years—providing a dynamic, intellectually engaging environment for students in Grades 1 through 3.

Our Lower Elementary classrooms are vibrant learning communities where academic rigor meets deep personal growth—preparing students not just for school, but for life.

An Interconnected Academic Experience

We move beyond teaching subjects in isolation. Our curriculum intentionally weaves together Mathematics, Science, History, and Language Arts, allowing your child to see the “big picture” and make deep, meaningful connections. 

Developing Essential Life Skills

Alongside academic rigor, we focus on fostering the skills your child needs for life. The program is designed to cultivate critical thinking, effective collaboration, and personal responsibility.

An Integrated Approach to Learning

Led by Montessori trained educators, the curriculum interweaves Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, and Language Arts into a cohesive, interconnected learning experience. Rather than approaching subjects as isolated subject matter, children discover how concepts relate to one another, sparking deeper understanding and greater curiosity.

Using timelines, concrete materials, hands-on experiments, and compelling visual aids, students develop conceptual clarity and critical thinking. They are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, pursue open-ended research, and engage in in-depth studies that promote both academic excellence and personal growth.

This core area of study nurtures the development of:

  • Logical reasoning and critical thinking
  • Collaboration and conflict resolution
  • Time management and responsibility
  • Confidence in self-directed learning
  • Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Cultural Studies (Science, History, and Geography)
  • Sensorial Exploration
  • Art & Music
  • Social Interaction and Community

Tailored Learning for Every Stage of Growth

At our Montessori school, we believe in fostering independence, confidence, and a lifelong love for learning from the very beginning. Our carefully designed programs cater to each stage of your child’s development, building essential skills and a deep connection to their world.

Language Arts

From phonics to creative writing, students develop strong reading and communication skills. Literature circles and journaling and oral presentations encourage expression, comprehension, and a lifelong love for reading.

Mathematics

Hands-on materials make abstract concepts tangible and engaging. Students explore arithmetic, geometry, fractions and problem-solving through concrete tools and guided discoveries, laying a solid foundation for higher-level reasoning.

Cultural Studies (Science, History, and Geography)

Integrated lessons inspire curiosity about the natural world, human societies, and the passage of time. Units include life sciences, physical sciences, early civilizations, and global cultures encouraging students to appreciate both diversity and interconnectedness.

Sensorial Exploration

Sensory materials refine perception and aid in the classification and interpretation of the world around them, cultivating the groundwork for logical thinking and scientific observation.

Art & Music

Creativity flourishes through regular opportunities to explore various media, study great artists and composers, and express themselves through performance and visual arts.

Social Interaction and Community

Students continue to strengthen independence, responsibility, and respect towards others. Lessons in etiquette, community care and daily routines nurture confidence, empathy, and self-discipline. Grounded in Montessori’s Peace Education principles, students learn to express feelings constructively, resolve conflicts respectfully, and contribute positively to their community.

Here's a Glimpse into the Rich Curriculum for our 1st-3rd Graders

Mathematics

  • Arithmetic Computation
  • In Depth study of Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division
  • Geometry
  • Algebra
  • Decimals
  • Comprehensive study of Problem Solving in Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division

Language

  • Sentence Structure
  • Grammar/ Parts of Speech
  • Phonograms
  • Blends
  • Spelling
  • Reading Comprehension

History

  • Timelines
  • Origins of Life (Plants, Animals, People)
  • Human Communities Cultures
  • World History
  • Modern History
  • Famous People/Places
  • Open-ended Research

Geography

  • The Universe, Solar System and Earth
  • Origins of Earth, Solar Energy, Atmosphere
  • Map Reading/ Globe
  • Cultures in Relation to Geographic Locations
  • Global Education
  • Countries within Continents, Capitals and Flags
  • Open-ended Research

Sciences

  • Study of Plants
  • Study of Animals
  • Physical Science
  • Basic Chemistry
  • Science Experiments
  • Health and Nutrition
  • Open-ended Research

The Fine Arts

  • Music Appreciation
  • Singing and Rhythm
  • Study of Composers
  • Poetry Appreciation
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Study of Artists and Art Mediums
  • Open-ended Research

Knowledge is best given where there is eagerness to learn, so this is the period when the seed of all things can be sown, the child’s mind being like a fertile field, ready to receive what will germinate into a culture.

Dr. Maria Montessori
If you think your child would thrive in a Montessori environment, give us a call or schedule a tour

Schedule a Tour

We would love for you to visit our school and learn more.

Testimony

What people say about us

We are beyond grateful for the amazing staff at MAV. Our daughter has attended for one year and we look forward to many more! The school offers opportunities for parents and families to get involved as well.

Allie Neal