Computer Technology

The Elementary Workshop Montessori School is proud to offer an integrated Computer Technology program. The overall goal of the computer curriculum is the safe and appropriate use of computers and technology to augment learning in every subject area.

Beginning at the age of three, children have a weekly computer lesson. Young children, paired, have a lesson in their classroom, each on one of the two classroom computers. The children learn how to select a program, follow directions, manipulate a mouse, and, as they mature, other important technologies using the computer.

Children in the 6 – 9 class (Elementary I) have three computers available to them in their classrooms, are assigned computer times, and have regular lessons in word processing in their classrooms. Computer technology lessons take place once a week for each child in the computer lab. It is during these lessons that children learn to create HyperStudio stacks, to negotiate on the World Wide Web, and import artwork into their documents among other things.

Elementary II children (9 – 12 year olds) have twice-weekly computer lessons in the computer lab. In addition to assessing and then designing their own web sites, these children use digital cameras and import their photographs into their work. They have created a digital “year book” for the school, have made I-movies, and have delivered their HyperStudio presentations to the Governor of Delaware, to the Delaware Instructional Technology conference, and at the YouthCan International Conference in New York City.

Spanish

Second language acquisition is easiest if it begins early. All EWMS children have Spanish each week with materials available to them to use and explore in their classrooms throughout the week. A great emphasis is placed on cultural understanding as well as on language learning. Our youngest children play games and sing songs as they learn while older children may even participate in role-plays in their classes. Lessons are as interactive and hands-on as possible. “Buenos dias!” is often heard in the hallways as children go about their day.

Music

EWMS contracts with the Wilmington Music School to provide a KinderMusik-based program for all children aged 3 – 9. Each week, the children learn music notation, experience playing percussion instruments, sing, and move to music. They are exposed first hand to instruments from each part of the orchestra through visiting artists.
Our upper elementary children (9 – 12), having build up their music skills over the years, learn to play the recorder, in addition to all of the other components of their weekly program.

Children aged 6 and older are invited to participate in the EWMS Chorus between November and March each year. The chorus is optional and is held during the afternoon after school extended day program.

Art

Art is an integral part of The Elementary Workshop Montessori School program. In addition to daily activities in the classroom, the children receive weekly art lessons that include drawing, painting, printing, and working with clay and papier maché. The children learn about artists, and enjoy experimenting in the artist’s style..
EWMS students have had their artwork displayed at many places over the years: The Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, The Brandywine Hundred Library, Borders Books and Music, A la Carte Restaurant, and A Movable Feast, all in Wilmington, and at Supply Chain Consultants in Pike Creek.

Movement/Physical Education

Physical activity and movement are viewed as an integral part of our program. Free play as well as organized games and skill development activities are stressed in aiding the development of the whole child. We have a large outside play area which is used by all classes on a daily basis, weather permitting. Children learn to enjoy and appreciate physical activity and also acquire the knowledge of strategy, safety, good sportsmanship and teamwork, all in an atmosphere of non-competitiveness.

Children in the early childhood class who are at least four, attend a dance/movement class hosted by the Grand School of the Arts at the Baby Grand on Market Street. This program teaches children balance, rhythm, coordination and dance moves, and introduces them to many classical dance forms. At the end of the year, a short performance is put on for the parents to see.

Elementary I and II children have a physical education program through the Downtown YMCA, consisting of swimming in the early fall and spring, and gym classes in between.