Montessori Math Extensions

Montessori Math Extensions can show you how the basic concepts of geometry can be introduced to young children using the bead chains. In order to do that first we need to introduce the geometric shapes to the child (or a very small group of children).

You may use simple cut out shapes or if you have access to the Montessori geometric shapes, use them.

Let's start with a triangle, a square and a circle. Gradually you can add more shapes like the pentagon, hexagon etc. With the three period lesson introduce the shapes .

The Three period lesson :

First period: Here you introduce the child with the object and the associated word.

Point to the triangle and say, ”Triangle. This is a triangle.”

Point to the square and say “This is a square.”

Point to the circle and say “This is a circle”

Second period: Here you involve the child in the action that he understands the association

Ask the child - “Show me the circle”. Let the child participate.

Ask the child “Show me the square “ and then go with the triangle. The Third Period: Here, you involve the child in saying the words with the associated objects.

Point to the triangle and ask “What is this?” Similarly go with all the shapes making sure the child can say the words correctly.

Play the "What's missing game" where the child closes the eye and you hide one shape behind you. Now take turns where you close your eyes and the child hides it. This will reinforce the second period and the third period lessons in a fun, playful way.

Now we are going to integrate the bead chains.

Let us start with the triangle. Take a bead chain that can be divided into three segments. For example the bead chain with nine beads, three in each segments work very well. Similarly extend it to more complicated geometric shapes gradually taking the child's interest and maturity in consideration.

Children learn by doing and this involvement of their gross motor skill makes a big difference in their interest level in learning with this project..

Montessori Math Extensions can also be done involving the Montessori Metal Insets. These insets are wonderful tools for pre-writing skills. The child strengthens his small muscle development, concentration and co-ordination skills and pencil grip in this activity while revising the concepts of geometric shapes. This can also be integrated with Art.

Along with the metal insets there is another extension that could be done where you expose the child to the geometric solids. So far the shapes were two dimensional. Now you bring the three dimensional geometric solids- the pyramid, the cube and the sphere in the Montessori Math Extensions.

With the Three period lessons and What's Missing game you made sure the child has no doubt about these shapes.

Another Montessori Math Extensions idea is where you take some play dough or polymer clay. Make the shapes- a square base pyramid, a ball or sphere and a cube with your hands. Take a sharp knife and slice the pyramid by its triangular side and show. Out lining the triangle with your fingers - dramatize. Show the triangle..

Cut the sphere in half. Outline the circles with your finger and show the circles. You may give play dough and a plastic knife for children to practice too.

After

Montessori Math Extensions see how you can create the ten bead bar or the hundred bead chain with your child involving your child with a little bit of jewelry making skill of yours,

or with your child play a Math game

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Here are the samples of some of my recently created jewelry pieces that I wanted to share with you.Please double click on the images to view more closely.