Course Description:  The aim of the Montessori language curriculum is to provide for the sensitive period for language development and the tendency for communication.  Language is the spirit of humanity, the means of sharing and communicating ideas, experiences, knowledge and history.  It provides the key to understanding, knowing and becoming a part of a society oriented in time and place. It gives the means for independence, exploration and interpretation.  Language development is linked with sensory education, one facilitating the other.  The child must learn to associate the appropriate words with a particular sensation, action or experience in order to organize his perceptions and conceptions.  Language is the means for ordering and classifying sensory experiences.  Montessori viewed language as communication incorporating structure, meaning, and emotion in the expression of thoughts and experiences.  A child uses language to communicate and to be understood as a unique individual.  It is the tool that allows the child to interact on the abstract level and to share with others.  Materials for development of oral language, writing, reading and grammar will be introduced.