Maria Montessori characterizes the six to twelve year old child, as being in the second plane of development. Certain traits and characteristics and needs of this child are taken into account in preparing this environment. It is now the age of reason. In the first six years, the facts were important and necessary to the adapting to his environment. Now he is deeply interested in the why and how of everything. He is capable of tremendous research, and an imagination like no other time in life. He now needs to put to use those skills he acquired and refined in the first plane, while being part of a greater community. Through Cosmic Education which is the basis for the curriculum, (the five great stories: The Story of the Universe, The Coming of Life, The Coming of Man, The Story of Numbers and The Story of Language) he learns the how and why of our universe, that all subjects are interrelated, and that each living thing has great purpose.

 A vast curriculum covers mathematics, geometry, algebra, reading, writing, literature, grammar, geography, zoology, botany, chemistry, geology, astronomy, music, art, drama and physical education. The Montessori teacher is there to present the material to the child in small groups or individually, according to his/her needs and development. The child learns to be self directed and motivated, to be responsible for completing and evaluating work, and managing his/her time effectively. Working in pairs and small groups are favorable to this child, where great research and projects make up much of their work. As this is also the age where the moral foundation is set into place, he/she is able to be a contributing member of a civil, cooperative community.

 At this age, the child needs the greater environment and community to enhance his research. Going out is encouraged when there is a particular area of interest or study, that requires more information offered within the classroom. Children may organize small groups of those with like interests and needs, to venture out to the place of interest. Parental supervision is provided for the sole purpose of safety, as the children do all the work required into the planning and learning of the experience.

The class consists of a six to twelve year age mix. There are no grades or standardized tests.  Each child puts together and maintains a work portfolio for their subject matter, keeps reading journals (great books recommended reading) and individual sketch books for their art work. The child reviews his/her work portfolio regularly with the teacher, and may present it to parents during presentation days. These portfolios can be a tremendous display and memory keepsake of the child's effort, work and creativity during their stay in the Montessori elementary environment.