Welcome to Circle Week at T.E.C. Schools, a dynamic, Montessori exploration of circles and their fascinating properties! We believe learning is an adventure, and this week is filled with hands-on activities designed to bring abstract concepts to life, echoing Maria Montessori's belief that "The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence."

Why are circles important?

Circles are fundamental in mathematics, science, and engineering. They are crucial for understanding concepts like geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. From the orbits of planets to the design of gears, circles are everywhere! Learning about circles helps students develop spatial reasoning, problem-solving skills, and the ability to see mathematical patterns in the world around them.

• In our Children's House, the exploration of circles begins with sensorial experiences. Students engage in activities that allow them to physically interact with circles, laying a foundation for future mathematical understanding. Using metal insets, students refine their fine motor skills while tracing circles, reinforcing the shape's form. In science, they make bubbles! The ephemeral nature of bubbles provides a playful way to observe spherical shapes, connecting math to the natural world. In art, they engage in creative projects, which allow children to express their understanding of circles through visual representation.
• For our Lower Elementary learners, we continue with the engaging story of 'Circumference and the Knights of the Round Table,' introducing the parts of a circle in a fun, narrative format. This sets the stage for exciting Montessori 'circle hunts' where students identify, trace, and define circles in their classroom environment. Older young students also begin to learn the basic vocabulary of the circle.
• For upper elementary and middle school, we delve into the historical context of pi. Students explore the 'History of Pi' cards, tracing its development from ancient civilizations to modern mathematics. They learn about various approximations and the mathematicians who contributed to our understanding. We observe the interesting historical patterns of discovery.

How does T.E.C.'s Montessori hands-on approach help?

By using hands-on materials, students actively engage with concepts, making learning more memorable and effective.  For example, Montessori circle hunts allow young learners to physically interact with circles, building a concrete understanding. The history of pi cards let older students physically manipulate and order the events, creating a deeper understanding of the timeline of discovery. This tactile learning approach, aligned with Maria Montessori's emphasis on sensory exploration, helps students build a strong foundation for advanced mathematical concepts.  As Maria Montessori said regarding psychogeometry, “The child who has learned to handle the shapes, to recognize them and to fit them together, is prepared for geometry, and for the demonstration of theorems.”

Concluding Thought:

• This deep and multifaceted exploration of circles, from the sensorial experiences of our youngest learners to the historical and mathematical inquiries of our older students, serves as a powerful catalyst for brain development.
• Through hands-on activities, students forge neural connections that enhance spatial reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• The integration of art, history, and mathematics creates a holistic learning experience, fostering a flexible and interconnected mind.
• By engaging multiple senses and encouraging active participation, we are not just teaching about circles; we are nurturing the cognitive architecture that will empower our students to become lifelong learners and innovative thinkers.

If you are interested in seeing how your child can benefit using the Montessori program, contact us to schedule a tour!