We were recently asked how we report a child’s “academic” progress. Our two-fold answer to that question is that at the primary-age level (3-6), we observe each child holistically rather than focus mainly on their “academic” progress. We observe, take careful notes, and then record them into the child’s file at the end of a class session.
So what exactly do we observe?
Certainly, “academically” we observe what materials that a child is drawn to, introduced to, struggling with, or has mastered. A check off form can be used for each child, which is kept in a teacher’s binder.(You can find various free downloads on the internet.) This is used as a daily guide and later can be utilized as a reference when conducting a parent-teacher conference, but NOT to be handed out to the parent. The form has all the Montessori activities in the classroom listed with a basic Key, such as:
- Introduced
- Working on
- Mastered
Ratings such as “good, fair, and poor” or “1, 2, 3, 4, 5…” is not an acceptable means of evaluating a child’s progress. Remember, we never assign “grades.”
IMPORTANT! This type of reporting is just one element of the “bigger picture.” Looking at the “whole child,” our focus turns more to the following categories:
- Behavior and social interaction
- Communication and language skills
- Work habits
- Perceptual and reasoning ability
- Motor skills – fine and gross
- Environment interaction
These six categories, above, require handwritten observation notes as opposed to a check-off a list. Included within these categories are subcategories, with the following goals in mind for the child:
- A joy of learning
- Self discipline
- Attachment to reality
- Self confidence
- Enjoyment of quiet
- Willingness to listen
- Inquisitiveness
- Desire to explore
- Love of order
- Appreciation of nature
- Respect for others
- Respect for materials
- Peace-making skills
- Ability to concentrate
- Exercise freedom of choice
- Show self initiative
- Care for the environment
- Spirit of cooperation
- Ability to work independently
- Exercise self care
Again, through careful observation and note taking, this is how we are able to monitor each child’s progress, holistically. On that note, happy observing!
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