montessori method: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal; Academic; Educational (Technical)
Quick answer
What does “montessori method” mean?
An educational approach for young children, developed by Maria Montessori, emphasizing self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play in a specially prepared environment.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An educational approach for young children, developed by Maria Montessori, emphasizing self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play in a specially prepared environment.
A philosophy and pedagogy that promotes the development of the whole child (physical, social, emotional, cognitive) through respect for the child's natural psychological development and freedom within limits, often using specific educational materials.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The term is used identically in both educational contexts.
Connotations
Associated with progressive, private, or alternative education. May connote expense or a specific pedagogical philosophy.
Frequency
Similar frequency in relevant contexts (education, parenting).
Grammar
How to Use “montessori method” in a Sentence
The [noun/pronoun] follows/uses/employs the Montessori method.The Montessori method emphasises/focuses on/encourages [noun/gerund].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “montessori method” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The school is moving to fully Montessori its early years provision.
- They decided to Montessori their nursery.
American English
- The school is moving to fully Montessori its early childhood program.
- They decided to Montessori their preschool.
adverb
British English
- The classroom was arranged quite Montessori.
- They teach very Montessori, with a strong focus on practical life skills.
American English
- The classroom was arranged very Montessori.
- They teach in a very Montessori way, with a strong focus on practical life skills.
adjective
British English
- They chose a Montessori nursery for their toddler.
- She is a trained Montessori practitioner.
American English
- They chose a Montessori preschool for their toddler.
- She is a trained Montessori guide.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in contexts of setting up or investing in private schools.
Academic
Common in papers on pedagogy, early childhood development, and educational psychology.
Everyday
Used by parents discussing schooling options or in articles about parenting and education.
Technical
Core term in educational theory, referring to a specific set of practices, materials, and teacher training standards.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “montessori method”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “montessori method”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “montessori method”
- Misspelling: 'Montessouri', 'Montesori'. Using lowercase 'm' for 'method' when it's part of the proper name. Using it as a generic verb, e.g., 'We montessori our children.' (Incorrect).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
While most famous for early childhood (ages 3-6), Montessori principles and schools exist for infant/toddler, elementary (6-12), and even adolescent levels.
The teacher (often called a 'guide' or 'directress') observes, prepares the environment, introduces materials, and facilitates learning rather than delivering direct instruction to the whole class.
No. It is a structured approach with specific, purpose-built materials and a prepared environment. Freedom is 'within limits', and children choose from activities designed to teach specific concepts.
While many are private, there are also public (state) charter schools and some state schools in various countries that implement Montessori programmes.
An educational approach for young children, developed by Maria Montessori, emphasizing self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play in a specially prepared environment.
Montessori method is usually formal; academic; educational (technical) in register.
Montessori method: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmɒn.tɪˈsɔː.ri ˌmeθ.əd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmɑːn.təˈsɔːr.i ˌmeθ.əd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A Montessori child (a child educated by this method)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a child choosing their own activity in a room full of special learning TOYS - MONTESSORI = My Own Natural Tasks Encourage Self-Chosen, Ordered, Resourceful Independence.
Conceptual Metaphor
EDUCATION IS CULTIVATION (preparing the environment for natural growth). TEACHER IS A GUIDE (not a lecturer).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a core principle of the Montessori method?