History is not only a narration of past events but also a means to understanding how all aspects of our world today - civilization, technology, science, religion, art, etc. - came to be. The Montessori study of history begins with the premise that all humans - living at any period of time - have common needs; mankind’s ingenuity and creativity is manifested in the myriad ways that humans have devised throughout history to meet those needs.
In the elementary classroom, students learn about the story of humans throughout the years, gaining a broad understanding of both early and modern civilizations. Storytelling, investigating cause and effect, and making personal connections, all contribute to an immersive experience and a comprehensive grasp of human history.
Beyond the topics covered by the teacher, students are guided through the process of preparing a research project, from choosing and citing sources to organizing information. With these tools, students conduct independent research and produce their own projects on specific questions or topics that interest them.
