Biology
Biology
Plants and animals are an essential part of Montessori. With this base, children become interested in studying the wide variety of life on Earth.
Children study the anatomy, physiology, and classification of living things using classroom resources such as books, card material, and charts. At first we look at one species and then compare it to another. Students may write a report or deliver a presentation about different species of animals or plants.
Through studying different life forms tamariki make connections between present-day life forms and their ancestors on the Timeline of Life. As conditions on Earth changed, organisms that were more complex evolved. In satisfying its needs, each creature created a place for another. For example, as insects evolved, so did flowering plants which created relationships which we still see. Children see the interaction of living and non-living things in relationship like how plants interact with te awa. The interdependence of all things in the universe is stressed, with people being the most powerful living thing, but also the most dependent. Integration of a Te Ao Māori world view is a vital part of this curriculum.