Nature Study
The children at FMA have a beautiful garden to explore and experience nature.
The garden consists of seven areas: the
Native Texas Garden, the Herb Garden, the Bird and Butterfly Garden, the Vegetable Garden, the Patio Garden, the Outdoor Classroom and the Gazebo.
Children come to the garden weekly for a half hour, weather permitting. A typical class size consists of 12 children. While in the garden, the children participate in a number of fun and educational activities.
Such activities may include harvesting, plant identification, insect observation, bird watching, plant watering, flower or herb cutting, care of the bird bath, leaf rubbings, mulching, temperature monitoring, weeding, seed gathering, seed sowing, and planting just to name a few.
Computer
Our Computer Lab is a place where children can learn to develop their computer skills along with the fundamental concepts that are taught in a Montessori classroom. The software helps to build reading, math, language arts, geography and science skills. Each of the software activities has multiple levels so that the programs can progress from simple to more complex concepts at a pace that suits each child.
The Elementary classes learn computer basics, Microsoft Office applications, keyboarding and an introduction to the Internet. The Microsoft Office applications used in the Computer Lab teach word processing, spreadsheet, graphics/multi-media, Power Point and database concepts. By incorporating hands-on experience with written lessons, our students gain the confidence needed to explore various computer applications and work independently.
FMA's Computer classes are held twice a week for Primary children. Our Elementary students have access to computers in their individual classrooms as well as participating in lessons three times a week in the Computer Lab. Our computer technology allows our students to access the Internet and e-mail. A typical computer class size is twelve students.
Spanish
The main focus of our Spanish curriculum is to teach the children common vocabulary, simple phrases and various commands in order to help them obtain the tools and skills needed to communicate clearly using the Spanish Language. The lessons are taught through the use of visual aids, songs, literature, games, Montessori materials and Total Physical Response (TPR) activities.
TPR is an approach to second language acquisition through the use of body movement such as pointing, touching, placing, pushing, etc. The children build their own picture dictionary for reference. Spanish vocabulary is also introduced through the use of regular concrete materials found in the Montessori classroom.
Early language development affects the ability to distinguish sounds in language; therefore, we begin teaching a second language to our Pre-Primary children as well as to our Primary children. In Elementary, isolating skills and phonetic awareness proves to be helpful in learning a second language. The Montessori grammar boxes are used to teach the different parts of speech.
Elementary classes are held twice a week. The Primary and Pre-Primary classes are held twice a week for thirty minutes. Our typical Spanish class-size is twelve students.
Fine Arts
Art:
During Art classes, the children learn to express themselves creatively using a variety of different mediums: pencils, paint, clay, etc. They also study important achievements and works of famous artists. Elementary students learn to use different mediums, the implementation and care of the tools, Art History, Art Appreciation, and Art Criticism which ties into their core curriculum. Our Elementary students meet weekly, and our Primary students meet twice a month.
Music:
Frisco Montessori Academy offers a unique Montessori approach to music study through the use of manipulatives such as bells, tone bars, specially designed cards, and musical instruments to foster sound recognition and experience with different tonal relationships. Lessons are built upon the elements of vocal development, listening, movement, notation and concept development. The children also learn to appreciate famous composers and their timeless musical creations. Our Elementary students and Primary students meet once a week, and our Pre-Primary students meet three times a week.
Movement
To reinforce the Montessori philosophy relating activity as the one factor that stimulates and produces development, FMA incorporates movement as a part of its program. Children participate in activities such as the parachute, ribbons, hula-hoops, jump ropes, and ball games.
These activities build on hand-eye coordination, gross-motor skills and teamwork in our well-equipped, half-court gymnasium.
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