Reading and writing develop together in a Montessori classroom. The student begins reading and writing at her own pace, with the Guide carefully monitoring to make sure she is challenged by the materials, but not pressured to perform above her developmental ability.

Writing
Writing begins with the child learning the shape of letters by tracing Sandpaper Letters with her fingers, learning also that letters represent sounds, and when put together create words. The child works with Metal Insets to learn how to control a pencil and to develop precision for beginning writing. Eventually, after working with all these materials, the child begins writing. Because she has not been forced or drilled, she enjoys learning to write and compose.

Reading
With this understanding of letters and how they make sounds, the child is prepared to begin reading. He learns to read by using the Moveable Alphabet, building vocabulary, and reading introductory books. The student is allowed to proceed at his own pace, with careful observation and guidance from the adults, and is encouraged to read about subjects that interest him rather than reading a standard primer.