“But an adult, if he is to provide proper guidance, must always be calm and act slowly so that the child who is watching him can clearly see his actions in all their particulars.” ~Maria Montessori
When a child has demonstrated interest and readiness for a particular concept or material, he or she will receive lessons from the teacher.
In Montessori, a teacher uses the Three Period Lesson to introduce a concept or vocabulary and demonstrate the purpose of a material. These lessons allow for a slower, easier absorption process and allows for isolated concepts and reinforcement of each step or component of a lesson as necessary.
1st Period: Name
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- “This is…” The teacher introduces a concept or material by naming and demonstrating it repeatedly. Complex materials will include several introductory lessons.
“This is a sphere.”
2nd Period: Recognition
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- “Show me…” The teacher may identify a concept or material and request the child to manipulate it. This allows the child to hear the name continuously and associates the objects visually as well.
“Show me the sphere.”
3rd Period: Recall
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- “What is this?”
The teacher requests the child to identify all materials without any assistance. When the child has mastered this period of the learning, they may move on to more complex materials and concepts.