How to Teach the Cultural Subjects in Montessori and Subject Organization

I am changing how I approach teaching the cultural subjects this year. 
I typically talked to the students in a group and told them what cultural subject we were studying that day. Most students usually finished the work that day and it was usually the three part cards and coloring the pages and writing the definitions. After years of observation, I realized that a large percentage of the students were not learning much. I realized that I needed to change it, but also keeping it deep rooted in Montessori. 

I realized what I want to truly focus on is following the child independently and having them choose what they want to learn about, when they want to learn it. Want to study flowers in the middle of winter? Go for it!

I have made brochures for each topic, so they have a list of choices to pick from, plus empty spaces to explore what they have questions about for each topic. 

I decided to make these, because unlike math and language, where I could make linear maps, cultural is not linear. After the introductory lessons, they can pick and explore. 

How will they learn topics they don’t pick? 

I am using a new sheet and my scope and sequence maps to keep track of the different topics in each subject area. I am hoping the students will keep a balanced plate–and as their Montessori directress, I will guide and direct them. 

At the end of the day, we will have a group to share what everyone learned that day. I think this will be the best plan of action, and I will update you to see how this new change goes. 

Here is a video that goes more in depth of this topic: