Lower Elementary Students are spelling out words in Spanish, translating the words using English or pictures, and then using those words to make new sentences in Spanish. We write stories together and students personalize them. Students are practicing compound words, "palabras compuestas." As an extension of botany lessons in the classroom, students are learning the Spanish names for the parts of the leaves. Lower Elementary students enjoy playing games and practicing dances from Hispanic countries. This is a great way to learn the language and culture. Upper Elementary We take many of our lessons outside if the weather permits. Dancing, games, we do it all!   One group of students is working on a play that focuses on the verbs baila, corre, salta, lanza, Éste/a, a es, se llama, and tiene; the nouns perro, gato, chico, chica; and the adjectives guapo/feo, gordo/flaco, inteligente/ estupido, rapido/lento. Old

At our last Parent Association meeting, we asked current parents why they chose Montessori for their child, and why they continue to keep their children at Abintra. Here is a summarization of their responses:  Why we chose and continue to choose Abintra Montessori: Gives the child a voice Creates a self-motivated learner Child is allowed to work at their own pace vs. everyone on the same page Opportunity to teach what they know to solidify the learning Encourages creativity for the family Builds confidence and authentic self worth Child stays engaged and excited to learn Child comes home saying, "I love school" Not 'grade' oriented, more 'goal' & 'process' oriented Child learns time management skills Don’t become approval or appraisal “junkies” Older children are respectful and can interact with adults Teaches them how to think, not what to think Focuses on the individual learning style of child S