The Great Lessons: The Story of Life

Montessori education is a holistic approach to learning that focuses on fostering a child's natural curiosity and desire to learn. One of the most important aspects of Montessori education is the use of "great lessons," which are designed to inspire a child's imagination, creativity, and thirst for knowledge. Of these great lessons, one of the most essential is the Story of Life – also known as the Second Great Lesson – which acquaints children as young as five with the concept of time and the history of life on earth. The story of life is taught as a sweeping narrative that spans over four and a half billion years, covering the beginning of life on earth and the evolutionary process that led to the emergence of human beings. The lesson begins with a creation myth that relates the story of the universe’s beginnings, time's origin and evolution. It introduces the notion of "cosmic education" that highlights how everything is connected and interrelated. The story is told in a way that is both factual and imaginative, with accompanying impressions that engage children and capture their imagination. Montessori teachers use various tools and methods to impart this lesson, including visual aids, nature walks, storytelling, and other sensory experiences to engage students and help them develop a deeper understanding of the natural world. Through the story of life, children learn that the world is a constantly evolving system of interrelated organisms, each with its unique attributes and purpose. This lesson provides an excellent opportunity to provide children with a sense of respect and appreciation for all living things and their place in the universe, fostering environmentally responsible attitudes by imparting that the world is sacred, unique, and worth protecting. Here are some examples of how the story of life is presented:

Second Great Lesson: Your friend Linds

The Second Great Lesson: Mariah Bigelow

Montessori Second Great Lesson (the coming of life):Melissa Glatz

The Second Great Lesson allows children to understand their place in the greater scheme of things, emphasizing that everyone is an element in the greater universe. This perception helps instil a sense of responsibility, empathy, and respect for the planet and its life forms, encouraging children to become stewards of the natural world. Overall, the story of life is a fundamental lesson in the Montessori curriculum that encourages children to become lifelong learners with a deep appreciation for the natural world. While learning about the history of the universe can seem like a daunting task for young children, the Second Great Lesson helps students develop an understanding of the world that is full of enthusiasm, wonder, and reverence. By introducing children to the story of life, Montessori education fosters an appreciation of the beauty and miracle of life, inspiring compassion and respect for all living things.