Montessori Tutorial: Exploring High and Low with the Bells

In Montessori classrooms, sensorial activities are designed to refine a child’s senses and prepare them for future learning. One beautiful example is the Montessori Bell lesson, where children are introduced to the difference between two pitches—high and low.

This exercise may look simple, but it strengthens careful listening skills, builds concentration, and lays the groundwork for language development.

The Materials

For this activity, you’ll need:

• Two bells (from a Montessori bell set or any handbells you may have at home)

• A mallet

• A damper

The setup is neat and inviting, encouraging the child to focus on the sound.

Step-by-Step Presentation

The guide begins by modeling the process slowly and deliberately:

1. Striking the first bell – The guide holds the mallet near the end of the handle for control, then strikes the edge of the first bell. The child listens carefully to the sound.

2. Striking the second bell – The guide then strikes the second bell, pausing to let the sound ring.

3. Comparison – The guide explains: “These two bells are not the same. One is high, and one is low.” Each bell is struck again to highlight the difference.

4. Invitation – The child is warmly invited to listen and try for themselves.

   
   

Extending the Lesson

In Montessori, this activity can be expanded using the three-period lesson:

• This is high. This is low.

• Show me high. Show me low.

• What is this?

This sequence helps the child absorb vocabulary, connect it to the sound, and demonstrate mastery.

Why It Matters

Listening carefully is more than just a musical skill. In Montessori, it is preparation for language work. By distinguishing between high and low sounds, children are:

• Training their ears to notice differences.

• Practicing concentration and patience.

• Building auditory discrimination, which supports learning the sounds of letters and words.

  
  

Final Reflection

The Montessori Bell lesson combines sensorial exploration with early preparation for reading and writing. By learning to listen carefully and distinguish between pitches, children develop not only musical awareness but also the foundation for language skills.

This simple yet joyful activity reminds us that in Montessori, every lesson—whether with beads, bowls, or bells—carries a deeper purpose: nurturing independence, concentration, and a love of learning.