Adolescent Program
Ages 12 to 14 Years Old
The Adolescent program at Montessori School at Emory is designed to meet the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional needs of 7th- and 8th-grade students in a multi-age learning environment. The program is guided by the understanding that adolescence is a unique period of human development, driven by the essential task of constructing one’s identity and finding one’s place in the world. Rooted in Dr. Montessori’s plan for adolescent learning, MSAE Adolescent Guides incorporate key concepts outlined in the Georgia Standards of Excellence to ensure MSAE graduates are prepared for their transition to high school and beyond.
Areas of study in the Adolescent program include:
English Language Arts - The ELA program focuses on developing the essential skills needed to understand, interpret, and communicate effectively through both reading and writing. Through experiences in creative writing, poetry, public speaking, and essay composition, students cultivate their voice, refine their style, and build confidence as writers.At the same time, vocabulary study, text analysis, and novel exploration strengthen critical thinking and deepen students’ ability to interpret the world around them. ELA is structured as a spiral curriculum, with each year building upon the last, allowing students to revisit, refine, and expand their understanding over time. Students study both modern and classic novels, use Words Their Way (Pearson) for vocabulary development, and work with additional resources to strengthen grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation skills.
Mathematics - In keeping with the Montessori principle of meeting learners where they are, the mathematics program is designed to be student driven. As students master new concepts, they progress to more advanced topics, with regular assessments used to monitor growth and guide instruction. Mathematics is also integrated into the school’s business operations, helping students understand both the purpose and practical application of what they are learning. The program begins with a review of previously learned concepts to ensure a strong foundation before moving into algebraic thinking. Over the course of 7th and 8th grade, students progress through a full Algebra 1 experience, with additional support and hands-on learning opportunities that supplement their classroom instruction. Students develop fluency with algebraic concepts while also applying mathematical reasoning to authentic, real-world situations.
Science - Science topics are presented in a two-year cycle, alternating between biology one year and physical science and chemistry the next. The focus of these courses is applying the scientific method to the needs of the community in each area. Biology – Students study life at various scales, from the cell to the ecosystem, and apply their knowledge to solve real problems they encounter. Sexual education occurs in conjunction with biology class and includes information about puberty, consent, and healthy relationships. The study of life culminates in a week-long trip to a mangrove forest on the Gulf Coast of Florida, with a focus on ecology and human impacts on the environment. Physical Science – Physical science includes chemistry and physics. In addition to applying the scientific method, students examine how ideas develop to better understand how scientific knowledge changes as new information is gathered. During the year, students participate in science simulations, including a LEGO robot challenge or the Future City Competition.
History- Like science, history is taught in a two-year cycle alternating between World History and Georgia History. The focus of both years is the application of critical thinking to historical concepts through presentations, debates, essay writing, and project-based learning. World History – Students explore major events in the development of human civilization and how these events have shaped the world we live in today. Georgia State History – Through an inquiry-based approach, students explore the history of Georgia and the social, political, and economic realities that shape life in our state today.
Elf Owl Café - One of the steps on the path to independence is gaining experience with economic responsibility. Adolescents are learning how they fit into their world, how they can make meaningful contributions, and the remuneration that can accompany hard work. To provide students with an authentic opportunity to develop these skills, the Adolescent Program operates a small business: the Elf Owl Café. Students manage every aspect of the business by making decisions, suggesting menu items, analyzing data, preparing food and beverages, and serving customers.
Spanish -
Spanish instruction is provided through Rosetta Stone language learning software. The program is self-paced, and students engage in in class learning. It emphasizes the building blocks of the Spanish language, including vocabulary and grammar, with an emphasis on proper pronunciation and conversational skills.
Physical Education-
In addition to daily recess, students receive physical education instruction once each week. PE lessons focus on acquiring skills for various sports, developing teamwork, and maintaining physical fitness. The class also enjoys outdoor activities, such as hiking on trails in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.
Creative and Performing Arts- MSAE’s approach to the art curriculum is grounded in three key strategies. Students explore art through a historical lens, examining major movements and the ways they have shaped artistic expression while influencing future generations. They also gain experience with a wide range of media—such as watercolor, papier-mâché, and pastels—while developing the techniques needed to use each with intention and skill. Art is embraced as a powerful tool for self expression, as students draw on their understanding of historical periods, styles, and mediums to create original works that reflect their individual voices and creativity. Building on students’ previous experiences in the elementary classroom, musical exploration is now integrated into the curriculum based on student interest and topics of study. Examples include songwriting, creating jingles for the Elf Owl Café, and song adaptations for theatrical performances. Another area of self-expression is the study of dramatic arts. Students collaborate in the creation and performance of a murder mystery each fall and an additional production each spring.
