This course is about the concept of Israel as it relates to our people, the land, the state and Judaism. Taught in the form of a history class, students study the connection between Jews and Israel, from God s promise to Abraham and Sarah to the founding of the state and continuing through to modern day. Sixth graders examine the wealth of traditional Jewish texts we have at our disposal. Valuable background information on the historical development is provided and formats of the sacred texts are covered. The class also offers opportunities to sample selections from each sacred text.
Seventh graders study the weekly Torah portion.
With each portion students analyze its message, study Rabbinic commentary and apply the portion s teachings to today. The text for the course is the weekly Torah Portion. Students also learn about Jewish values and their application into our lives today. Grade eight focuses on comparative Judaism and Jewish identity. Through this course, students explore their personal understanding of what it means to be Jewish.