Grammar Symbol - Paper: Abstract (100)
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Made by Nienhuis Montessori · shipped by Heutink International (Netherlands) About the maker
One hundred paper symbols for the abstract, from the extended grammar symbol series. A symbol for abstraction sounds like a contradiction and is the useful part: some albums mark words that name things which cannot be pointed at, and once a child starts marking those they notice how many sentences depend on them. Sold in hundreds, because a symbol set only works when there are enough of every kind to finish a sentence.
“Education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words but by experiences upon the environment.”
The Grammar Symbol - Paper: Abstract emerges from Maria Montessori's observation that children require concrete representations to comprehend abstract concepts. These 100 blue circular paper symbols transform the invisible structures of language into tangible objects children can see, touch, and manipulate.
- Distinguishes between concrete and abstract words in sentences
- Develops metalinguistic awareness through symbol manipulation
- Builds foundation for advanced grammar analysis
- Strengthens reading comprehension of abstract concepts
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The solid blue circle specifically designates abstract words that cannot be illustrated through pictures or objects, words like 'happiness,' 'thought,' or 'friendship.' By providing paper cutouts for abstract grammar concepts, children bridge the gap between their concrete operational thinking and the abstract nature of language structure. The circular shape of these abstract grammar symbols distinguishes them from other grammar symbols, helping children categorize and understand that language contains both concrete and abstract elements. Through physically placing these blue circles above abstract words in sentences, children internalize the concept that some words represent ideas rather than objects, preparing them for advanced language comprehension.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place grammar symbols in organized containers. Prepare simple sentences written on strips containing both concrete and abstract words. Have object boxes available for concrete nouns.
- 1
Read a sentence aloud: 'The cat shows kindness to her kitten'
Emphasize each word clearly, allowing the child to hear the abstract quality of 'kindness' - 2
Ask child to identify which words can be represented by objects
Let them discover that 'kindness' cannot be shown with an object - 3
Introduce the blue circle as the symbol for abstract words
Place it ceremoniously above 'kindness' to mark this special category - 4
Continue analyzing the sentence with appropriate grammar symbols
Build the complete symbol pattern above the sentence strip
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
In classrooms
Around the world
European brands
Nienhuis, GAM, Educo
AMI approved
To the association standard
Grammar Symbol - Paper: Abstract (100)
