Curriculum Specialist, Kacee Weaver
The Cosmic Curriculum
Dr. Maria Montessori’s term Cosmic Education, is commonly referred to as; the cultural
subjects, but more simply described as a curriculum rich in history, geography, botany, biology,
physics, astronomy, chemistry, art, music and peace studies. An integrated curriculum is the core of
the Montessori classroom. Math and language lessons are used to build the foundation but are not
viewed as the center.
Social Studies is the common term used in the traditional education setting. This term
encompasses many of the Montessori cultural subjects and its purpose is to expand a child’s world
in order for them to become competent citizens in an evolving and interdependent world. The
importance of history and historical comprehension, including chronological thinking, geography
and understanding location, economics, citizenship and the roles and responsibilities of individuals
is fundamental.
Whatever name we use; cultural subjects, social studies, sciences, cosmic education,
integrated studies, or otherwise; Dr. Montessori believed that if we could present these subjects to
the child in the right way, we could do more than just stimulate an interest in dinosaurs, rocks or
plants. We could create “admiration and wonder” that would follow a child throughout his or her
life. This admiration and wonder provide a natural engagement for the child’s mind and prepare it
for deeper cognitive work.
Those of you that attended the 5th annual International Festival experienced the excitement
and wonder of the cosmic curriculum on a number of levels. The geographic location of the seven
continents along with the animal and plant life and the cultural lives of its’ countries inhabitants
were explored from the preschool aged through junior high aged students. On behalf of all of us at
MMA we’d like to thank you for supporting your children in their learning outside of school.
Everything you do at home extends your child’s experiences of the world and their place in it
