"This system in which a child is constantly moving objects with his hands and actively exercising his senses, also takes into account a child's special aptitude for mathematics."

DR. MARIA MONTESSORI

The Montessori Primary Classroom is when the child first gets an introduction to formal mathematical materials.  Given that everything in the classroom is designed for children aged 2.5 to 6 years of age, the material is concrete.  The child's first formal introduction to math is through the use of materials in what we call Group One of Math.  Group One consists of materials that work on gaining experience with 1:1 correspondence, number recognition for numerals 0-10, understanding the concept of 0, and sequencing numerals 1-10. After these concepts are mastered, children are then introduced to materials that combine these concepts.  Similar to most work in the classroom, we give the child the introduction and experience with concrete representation of a quantity before introducing the symbol.  Using the math materials, the child's first lesson begins simply with counting and obtaining the vocabulary of numbers 1-10.  This is then followed by number recognition.  The child needs to know what four is to better aid them in understanding what the symbol for 4, looks like.  The child can better retain the graphic symbol of 4 when they know what four represents. The adult's language is, "This is four." versus "This says four." Once the vocabulary, counting and number recognition are secure, then, the 1:1 correspondence is established. These first few lessons are presented with the Number Rods, the Sandpaper Numbers and the Number Rods and Cards.  The child will then begin work with the Spindle Boxes, Cards and Counters and end with the Memory Game of Numbers.  The children are so excited to begin their math journey with these materials! 

Stay tuned; the math gets increasingly complex and even more impressive!