For the already accelerated preschool child, the Montessori elementary classroom provides a smooth transition with an overlap of some material in the first year. However, the elementary objectives are different from those in the preschool program. The child is directed toward abstraction, and away from the pedagogical materials.

The curriculum is interdisciplinary, with an emphasis on the association between the different areas of study. For example, the natural sciences lead to the social and physical sciences. All areas of the curriculum are introduced with a "Great Lesson". These lessons spark the child's imagination and excite them to learn more.

Unlike many traditional curriculums, Montessori approaches knowledge from a global perspective. Dr. Montessori felt that the study of history should begin with a general view of the universe. She developed a series of experiments that reveal the laws of the universe to the child. After this general understanding, the lessons deal with the origins of life and proceed to the development and history of language, writing, and mathematics.

When studying history or geography, Montessori emphasizes the lifestyles of the civilizations: how they work and play, what they wear and eat. Students then proceed to explore museums or other historic sites in their journey to learn and understand.