By age nine children, while still in the Intellectual Period, are moving away from concrete learning to abstract thinking.
They are less reliant on equipment, though Montessori materials are still available, and moving toward a more abstract exploration of the world - experience and thought begin to connect.
To help children reflect on their experience and develop, we provide the right physical and psychological environment in the classroom.
In a Montessori classroom, there is a focus on their development as social beings. The skills of being able to think, to reflect, to draw conclusions and to act accordingly in a responsible manner are necessary characteristics to all human beings.
At this stage, children spend a lot of time carrying out research projects. Projects are often done in groups with the children sharing the responsibility, which enhances the development of communication and interpersonal skills. Research tools such as computers, books and other texts are all fully utilised and the range of research topics widens as the children become interested in moral and social issues.
At this age, ethics and justice are prime focuses and related issues often form the basis of their projects as students explore their place within society.
In this cycle, the Montessori guides will frequently work with students as small groups and one-on-one situations.
Individual children will be involved in a variety of tasks. They may be working at their desks, researching in the classroom library area, creating models or art works, or perhaps helping to organise a whole school event.
