Montessori in a Minute: Geometric Hierarchy of Numbers

One of the most exciting parts of the Montessori math curriculum is the way it brings abstract concepts to life through hands-on learning. In our classrooms, students work with the Geometric Hierarchy of Numbers, a striking set of materials designed to help children understand the scale and structure of large numbers.

Colored cubes in varying sizes from 1cm on up represent different place values. One unit appears as a tiny cube that fits comfortably in a child's hand. In contrast, a large cube representing one million (which can hold one million one cm cubes) immediately captures their attention. The increasing sizes and shapes give children a concrete understanding of scale and hierarchy, transforming something abstract into something meaningful and memorable.

This lesson serves as both an introduction and a review of how numbers grow and relate to each other. When using this material, children can see and feel the dramatic difference between one unit and one million.

The Importance of Geometric Hierarchical Math Materials

As students handle the material, they quickly recognize patterns within the number system. They observe that ten units form one ten, ten tens make one hundred, and so on. This progression continues clearly and predictably all the way up to one million. The material's tangible nature sparks curiosity, excitement, and many "aha" moments as children explore each value.

The Geometric Hierarchical Material is a perfect example of how Montessori turns complex, challenging ideas into accessible, joyful learning experiences. By giving children concrete tools to explore mathematical concepts, we help them build the strong foundation they need for deeper understanding in the years ahead.

The Montessori in a Minute Series

The Montessori In A Minute series regularly explores the unique benefits of the Montessori philosophy, its fundamental materials, and classroom areas. For all parents at Hudson Montessori School (Jersey City, New Jersey), we host Montessori Parent Education Events annually to teach parents about the Montessori method and how students learn using a Montessori framework. At Hudson Montessori, a child's education is a partnership between school and home, working together to support a student's learning journey.

Contact us to learn more about Hudson Montessori School's theme-based learning approach to education, the Montessori philosophy and methodology, or how the school fosters the love of learning for children aged 2 to eighth grade.