Upper Elementary
(Grades 4–6)
Where Capability Becomes Confidence
In Upper Elementary, students at Gladwyne Montessori take everything they’ve built - academic skills, independence, curiosity - and elevate it to a new level. Designed for children ages 9 to 12, this three-year cycle empowers students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and lead with confidence.
Through a rigorous, inquiry-based curriculum and a highly personalized approach, students develop mastery across core subjects while gaining the skills and mindset they’ll need for middle school - and beyond.
Academically Challenging. Deeply Personal.
Montessori Upper Elementary is where intellectual growth accelerates - and students are ready for it.
At this stage, children are increasingly capable of abstract thought, big-picture reasoning, and long-term planning.
- Advanced Mathematics: Pre-algebra, geometry, data analysis
- Literature & Writing: Analytical reading, persuasive writing, research reports
- Science: Biology, chemistry, astronomy, environmental studies
- History & Culture: Government, ancient civilizations, geography, economics
- Technology & Research: Digital tools for writing, presenting, and inquiry
Students dive into big projects, real-world applications, and cross-disciplinary work that sparks intellectual engagement and academic stamina.
Each subject builds both skill and confidence through scaffolded lessons and open-ended inquiry. Research projects, science experiments, persuasive essays, math investigations, and debate-style discussions are common. Students have time to go deep - and develop meaningful understanding across all disciplines.
A Learning Community That Builds Confidence
Confidence grows when students are given real responsibility - and trusted to rise to it.
Upper Elementary classrooms are multi-age, giving students a chance to lead, mentor, and learn across a range of abilities.
Older students develop leadership skills, while younger ones find role models and stretch goals.
Teachers (guides) support this growth by offering increasing independence and setting high expectations for accountability, collaboration, and integrity.
How Community Shapes Confidence
- Students create and follow individualized weekly work plans
- They collaborate across subjects and age groups
- They make independent decisions about how and where they learn best
They receive one-on-one guidance in academic, social, and executive functioning skills.
A Day in the Life of Upper Elementary
A blend of structure and independence allows students to focus deeply - and manage their own time with growing maturity.
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8:45 a.m. Arrival |
8:30 - 11:30 a.m. Morning Work |
11:30 - 12:30 p.m. Recess |
12:30 - 3:00 p.m. Afternoon Work |
3:00 p.m. Dismissal |
The uninterrupted morning work cycle is a cornerstone of Montessori practice. Students choose from a wide range of subjects - math, reading, research, writing, science, and more - working deeply and independently.
Students move through their day with purpose and ownership—supported by a rich balance of academic expectations and opportunities to move, reflect, and connect.
Upper Elementary Specials
In Upper Elementary, specials are more than enrichment - they’re essential opportunities for students to deepen their skills, explore new perspectives, and express their evolving identities.
Student Assessment
We measure what matters - so we can meet every child where they are and help them grow with intention.
Students in Upper Elementary continue to benefit from Montessori's deep commitment to formative, personalized assessment, combined with increased structure and preparation for traditional academic environments.
Students are assessed carefully and purposefully.
We have regular reading assessments and writing evaluations, weekly spelling quizzes, math checkpoints, guided reading groups, and individual conferences to ensure accountability and progress. Benchmark assessments begin in Kindergarten, and Standardized testing starts in 3rd Grade.
Students learn to track their progress, reflect on goals, and communicate their learning - skills that support strong transitions into middle school.
Ready for Middle School
Graduates of our Upper Elementary program don’t just have with impressive transcripts. They leave with:
- Academic mastery across all major disciplines
- Independence, resilience, and intrinsic motivation
- Experience leading, collaborating, and contributing
- A strong sense of self and readiness for middle school life
Whether they go on to public, private, or parochial schools, our students are seen as thoughtful, articulate, and well-prepared contributors to any classroom community.
READY TO LEARN MORE?
Explore What Upper Elementary Can Offer
If you’re looking for an elementary experience that balances academic excellence, personal growth, and real-world preparation, let’s talk.
SUBMIT AN INQUIRY FORM
We know no one loves forms, but this is the best way for us to gather some basic information - so we can support you properly with your admissions journey.
SCHEDULE A CAMPUS VISIT
Nothing beats seeing our school in action, so book your tour today with a member of our admissions team and experience Gladwyne Montessori for yourself.
START YOUR APPLICATION
Applying for a place is a straightforward online process, but if you have any questions or concerns, rest assured we will be here to guide you every step of the way.