If you consider the properties of the sensorial materials that are not "education of the senses", use of the sensorial material is even more important. Gradation and sorting are pre-math skills. The development and extension of patterns, The ability to use one object as a unit of measurement. What about creativity and thinking of something from an artistic point of view.
This was created by one of my students, Carter. He was surrounded by students working together on contingent maps. I recall how he had to work a bit to maintain his working area against the hustle of so many continent maps moving about the room. He was tremendously proud of himself for creating this balanced work of art using the red knobless cylinders. We took a picture and he wanted to make sure that I showed others. He told me how he needed to move this piece and that piece. I loved his concentration, but more I can see what he learned about weight, height and balance!
The robot is taken from a blog called The Montessori Goldmine. She initially got it from the Sunrise Learning Lab. The original picture reflects a picture of her son, and was edited by the Montessori Goldmine.
This pink tower and brown stair extension was located at Con La Cabeza en Las Nubes.
From the classroom at the Montessori School of Holmes Run in Falls Church, VA. We call it the Grand Sensorial Layout.
Pink Tower Extension by BMMontessori!
I know that I have a picture of an extension called "The Grand Pagoda" and one that resembles a "Christmas Tree", but not on this computer. The idea that I like the most though isn't to copy an extension, but to create your own and become part of a book that shows possibilities!
Additional links with Sensorial extension pictures -
Montessori with Myra
Montessori online photo album