(in Polish) Montessori and Play in Language Learning WH-KON-E-MonPlay
The goal of the course Montessori and Play in Language Learning is to explore how Montessori principles and play-based approaches support natural language development in early childhood. Participants will examine how children acquire language through exploration, interaction, and meaningful engagement with their environment, and how adults can design experiences that encourage curiosity, communication, and self-expression.
The course provides a comprehensive overview of the stages of language development and highlights how prepared environments, sensory materials, and symbolic play can enrich vocabulary, verbal skills, and overall communication. It also emphasizes the adult’s role as a guide, supporting language growth with sensitivity, respecting children’s autonomy, and fostering an atmosphere of trust and independence.
Throughout the course, participants will reflect on practical strategies for integrating play and Montessori principles into language learning, considering both individual and group needs. The program also offers tools for thoughtful observation and reflection, helping students connect theory with practice in meaningful ways.
By the end of the course, participants will have developed a deeper understanding of how to create rich, engaging, and developmentally appropriate language experiences for young children, whether in educational settings or at home.
(in Polish) Grupa przedmiotów ogólnouczenianych
Subject level
Learning outcome code/codes
Type of subject
Preliminary Requirements
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge
The student understands and distinguishes key concepts related to language development in early childhood within the Montessori framework.
The student recognizes the relationship between play, sensory experience, and linguistic growth, identifying how these elements interact in the process of natural language acquisition.
The student describes the stages of language development and explains how the prepared environment and adult guidance influence children’s communication and self-expression.
The student identifies the role of observation and reflection in supporting children’s language learning through play and exploration.
Skills
The student observes and interprets children’s linguistic behaviors in a Montessori setting, identifying signs of developing communication and vocabulary.
The student designs and implements play-based language activities that foster curiosity, interaction, and creativity in young learners.
The student adapts language-learning strategies to meet individual developmental needs and cultural contexts.
The student integrates Montessori materials and principles into practical activities that support oral communication, listening, and early literacy.
The student evaluates and reflects on their own practice, adjusting teaching approaches to promote independent and meaningful language use among children.
Social competences
The student works independently and collaboratively, showing responsibility for their own professional development and continuous learning.
The student demonstrates sensitivity, respect, and empathy when interacting with children, families, and colleagues in multilingual and multicultural environments.
The student values diversity and adapts communication styles to different developmental and cultural contexts.
The student shows openness, creativity, and initiative in facilitating language learning through play, encouraging positive, inclusive, and cooperative interactions.
Assessment criteria
Grade 5 (Excellent):
The student demonstrates an in-depth understanding of Montessori principles and play-based language learning. They can independently connect theory with practice, design and justify developmentally appropriate language activities, and clearly explain how play and the prepared environment foster communication and self-expression. The student reflects critically on their own observations, shows creativity, sensitivity to children’s needs, and consistent engagement in the learning process.
Grade 4.5 (Very Good Plus):
The student shows a solid understanding of key Montessori concepts and can apply them effectively in language-learning contexts. They plan and discuss activities with a good level of accuracy and creativity, identifying links between play, exploration, and language development. Their reflections are thoughtful, though sometimes less detailed. The student participates actively and demonstrates growing independence in applying Montessori strategies.
Grade 4 (Good):
The student understands the main principles of Montessori education and their connection to language learning through play. They can describe and apply basic strategies to support communication and language growth. Their work is generally correct and coherent, though at times descriptive rather than analytical. The student engages in class activities regularly and shows awareness of the child’s perspective.
Grade 3.5 (Satisfactory Plus):
The student demonstrates a general understanding of Montessori ideas and recognizes the role of play in language development, though with limited depth. They can suggest simple activities or observations but have difficulty linking them clearly to theory. Reflections are brief, and participation may be uneven, but the student shows effort and willingness to learn.
Grade 3 (Satisfactory):
The student shows only a basic understanding of Montessori principles and can identify some examples of play-based language activities. Their explanations are simple and sometimes inconsistent, but they can complete essential tasks and communicate core ideas with guidance. Engagement is minimal but sufficient to meet basic course requirements.
Grade 2 (Fail):
The student does not demonstrate adequate understanding of Montessori principles or their application to language learning. Work lacks coherence, reflection, and connection to theoretical concepts. Participation is irregular, and the student is unable to apply key ideas in practical or analytical contexts.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: