Fundamental needs is one of my favourite topics to teach.
The topic is usually presented straight after the Third Great Story
It can also tie in well to units on Needs vs Wants or the needs of a particular people group - for example refugees.
We present Fundamental Needs individually and then when the child is able across different time spans (e.g. Industrial Revolution).
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.When presenting the needs individually we isolate one Fundamental Need at a time such as Food and look at different foods, usually we do this with 3 part cards.
The three part cards give a sample of examples of that need for example a set of cards on food may have examples of a salad, a burger, a noodle dish, a fruit platter and so on.
We then do this with the other needs.
The Fundamental Needs of People differ in name between different Montessori Organisations however they cover
Spiritual Needs: Social Acceptance, Culture, Legal System and Religion
Material Needs: Clothing, Money, Health, Food, Defense, Transport, Communication, Tools and Shelter
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Later we look at different time periods and see how people met their needs in those times and then we compare for example how people in Ancient China met their need for Transport in a different way to Vikings.
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This can be a big topic to teach. I have compiled my lesson sequence which covers what lessons I teach when presenting these lessons to 6-9 year olds. It is a guide only but gives you an idea where you could direct learning in your class or homeschool.
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Get a free copy emailed to you here
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At the end of the unit I do a couple of reviews with the students. These can also be included in students work samples or portfolios
Get this one emailed to you.
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This sheet below is particularly useful for older students. Get it emailed to you here
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