Read the book "To Educate the Human Potential" by Maria Montessori. Then discuss the critical points of developing children's potential. Note that the first four chapters focus on psychological changes experienced from birth to age six. Discuss with students the three elements necessary to encourage optimal psychological development at age 6 and beyond: using imagination, stimulating interests and building on interests already in place.
Divide students into four groups. Provide each group with one large sheet of chart paper and markers. Assign each group a chapter from one to four. Instruct each group to review the assigned chapter. While reviewing, direct students to identify the critical developmental points mentioned in their chapter. Instruct students to write at least five of these points on the chart paper.
Direct students to discuss with their group the critical points they identified. On the board, write the three elements you identified in Step 1: using imagination, stimulating interests and expanding interests already in place. Instruct students to identify specific actions to take for addressing these three areas that assist in fostering positive human development in a classroom setting. Have group members assist each other in developing appropriate actions for the critical points presented. Provide groups with index cards for recording notes to refer to during presentations.
Direct students to tape their completed chart papers on the front wall of the classroom to prepare for presentations. Begin the presentations with the group assigned to review Chapter 1. Presentations may require an additional class period. Limiting presentations to 10 to 15 minutes per group will ensure students can complete them within one class period. While one group is presenting, direct the other students to create a list of actions that will encourage and support the use of imagination, the development of interests and the expansion of interests already in place.