Language Lesson I: Oral Vocabulary

Language is the most important work we do in a Montessori classroom aside from Practical Life. It is also an integral part of the process of learning to read and write. The importance of good speech cannot be overstressed because it is the means by which the child makes himself known and understood. It gives the child a feeling of equality with his peers, as well as facilitating future learning.

In the video below, Kathy Graham shares the importance of giving language to the child along with a demonstration lesson on oral vocabulary.

If you are unable to view the embedded video, click here.

In helping to build your child’s vocabulary, remember these few basic steps:

1. Give the child words.
2. Give the child real objects.
3. Engage the child in nature to spark a sense of wonder.
4. In working with various materials, compare and contrast with real objects and pictures. Language is not just learning words, its also learning to discriminate likenesses and differences.
5. Use the three-period lesson.
6. Have your child say the language over and over again. Repetition is learning.

“That’s the Montessori way!”