The Third Great Story – The Coming of Humans

Recently, our Lower Primary Starfish children listened to the Third Great Story, The Coming of Humans. This Montessori story helps children understand what makes humans unique and how human intelligence has shaped civilisation. It also introduces the fundamental needs of all people, such as food, shelter, clothing, and community.

After the story, the children examined posters of ancient cave paintings and discussed how early humans used them to communicate ideas, tell stories, record important events, and express their beliefs. Through these discussions, the children explored how communication has evolved over time, eventually leading to spoken and written language.

The class also made connections between cave paintings, animals, and continents, considering how different animals appeared in different parts of the world and how migration may have influenced the artwork created by early humans.

Inspired by these discoveries, the Starfish children created their own cave paintings using symbols to tell stories and share their ideas with the class. This creative experience allowed them to connect with the lives of early humans while exploring one of the earliest forms of artistic expression.

More than just an art activity, the cave painting experience reinforced one of the central messages of the Third Great Story: humans are unique because of their ability to think, create, communicate, and pass knowledge from one generation to the next. It also fostered curiosity, an appreciation for our shared human history, and an understanding of how each generation contributes to the future.

-Vanita

Starfish Teacher