Montessori Lesson Plans
Sequencing in Montessori Build Work is a Montessori-inspired lesson for Pre-K and Kindergarten (30-45 minutes).
Students plan, build, and reflect on multi-step Superspace structures, developing sequencing skills, executive function, and collaborative communication. After a circle time discussion about sequences in everyday tasks, teachers model breaking a build into steps (foundation, walls, roof), then small groups complete their own builds using sequencing language.
Students explain their steps to peers, disassemble in reverse order to reinforce sequencing, and can optionally draw and label their build steps. Differentiation options include visual sequence cards for language support, ordinal number practice for Kindergarten, and written planning challenges for advanced students.
Curriculum Covered:
ELOF: Cognition Goal P-COG 13: Child uses reasoning and planning ahead to solve problems
NGSS K-ETS1-1: Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.K.1: Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about kindergarten topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups
Nature-Inspired Design for Cosmic Education is an ecosystem exploration lesson for 1st and 2nd grade, ages 6-9 (2-3 hours, can span multiple sessions).
Framed by the Montessori "First Great Lesson" and the theme of interconnectedness, students work in small groups to research an assigned ecosystem like rainforest, desert, or ocean, then build a life-sized version using Superspace panels and natural materials. Groups sketch plans in journals, create plants and animals with art supplies, label ecological features, and present their environments in a gallery share.
The lesson integrates science, geography, art, and practical life skills while fostering appreciation and stewardship of nature. Differentiation options include student-selected ecosystems, multi-session extensions with research and journaling, and world map connections.
Curriculum Covered:
NGSS 1-LS1-1: Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs
NGSS 2-LS4-1: Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.1.1: Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about grade 1 topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups