The elementary-aged child is moving from an understanding of the physical world to an understanding of abstract concepts and the Montessori materials provide diverse and creative passages to abstraction. Mathematics, for instance, is presented through three-dimensional, manipulative materials that reveal simultaneously arithmetic, geometric and algebraic correlations—each providing a concrete way to experience an abstract concept. Symbols and visual patterns used in the grammar materials help the child discover parts of speech and analyze the structure, style, and logic of sentences. These exercises refine reading and writing skills and lay the foundations for foreign language study. The materials for disciplines such as geometry, botany, zoology, and geography present basic terminology as the groundwork for future in-depth study.

As in the preschool classroom, the prepared environment for older children is designed to invite the children to learn independently and spontaneously through interacting with it. The materials in the elementary classroom reflect the same attention to Montessori standards as those used in the preschool classroom and encourage the development of high levels of abstract knowledge and creative thought. The teacher does not use these materials as visual aids as in a traditional classroom, but rather familiarizes the children in their purpose and use. Learning takes place when the child uses these materials.