Lesson

Ashes of History

Read this story of the House of Katros in Jerusalem, circa 70 C.E. In the lesson students will discuss the relationship between past and present through the discussion of Jewish texts and the creation of their own Israel museum. $0.00$0.00  It's sunset after a hot day in 70 C.E. Although a cooling breeze blows through the open windows of the home of the High Priest known as Katros, inside the atmosphere is heated. The elder Katros, pointing to the Holy Temple which can be seen through the open window, is furious. He believes his teenage son has joined the Zealots, a group of Jewish rebels he both fears and despises. "Are you one of them?" the father shouts, his voice shaking with fury. "Have you turned against your family?" "The city that was great with people has become like a widow." Lamentations 1:1 Lesson Summary:  Students will explore the concept of ahavat Eretz Yisrael as it relates to Jewish history and the history of Israel. Students will discuss the relationship between past and present through the discussion of Jewish texts and the creation of their own Israel museum. Printable Lesson:  4808lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Additional Resources:  Tunnels and Chambers: A Virtual Adventure Through the Beit Hamikdash 3D tour of the vessels used in the Beit Hamikdash Information about an institute in Jerusalem working on reconstructing Temple vessels

Bahar Soomekh: Mission Possible

In an interview with actress Bahar Soomekh we learn how she shows her appreciation for all she has. Through aTwizzlers exercise, students will learn that sometimes we need each other, and we should thank each other for helping. . $0.00$0.00In Hollywood, you never walk alone. It takes not only talent, training, drive, and a camera-ready smile, but also a boost from friends and family to achieve your dreams. "It is good to thank God and to sing praise to God's exalted name." Psalms 92:2 Lesson Summary:  Students will identify things and people for which they are grateful and to whom they are appreciative. Students will learn that we cannot accomplish everything in life completely independently. Students will study Jewish texts to learn about hakarat hatov. Printable Lesson:  3804lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet

Spin to Win

Discover the physics of dreidel spinning by reading this article. Using the metaphor of the falling dreidel, students will play a game and study texts that think about helping others stand $0.00$0.00 RECORD-BREAKING TOPS The world's tallest spinning dreidel, built by college students in Montreal, stands more than 22 feet tall. In 1998, at least 200 people in Skokie, Illinois, attempted to set the first world record for the greatest number of dreidels spun at once. "A great miracle happened there." Lesson Summary:  Students will play a game to get them thinking about trust, supporting others, and appreciation. Students will explore the metaphor of falling and standing through Torah study. Students will think about ways to help those who have fallen. Printable Lesson:  3806lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Text and discussion questions

Get an Attitude of Gratitude

Spice up the "thank you" portion of a bar mitzvah d'var with these witty one-liners. $0.00$0.00One day, you'll probably stand in front of a congregation and deliver a bar/bat mitzvah speech. Most likely, at the end of that speech, you'll thank everyone who helped you prepare. If you're careless, this part of your speech could sound shallow or insincere. We thought it would be fun to spoof the way some people give lip service to showing appreciation-hakarat hatov, (recognizing good). In contrast to repeating empty "thank-yous," regularly recognizing the good in your life and praising God will teach you an attitude of gratitude. "Praised are you, God, Ruler of the universe, who provides for all my needs." Birkhot Hashahar from The Shacharit Service Lesson Summary:  Students will analyze Jewish prayers and explore the importance of thankfulness in their daily lives. Students will identify what they should be thankful for throughout a day. Students will recognize God's role in their everyday lives. Printable Lesson:  3807lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Journal prompt

Meira Weiss: A Thank-You From the Heart

Read why Meira decides to give back after the Jewish Caring Network helped her family get through her father's battle with cancer.In the lesson, students will participate in a scavenger hunt to help them identify reasons for being grateful to their school and will spearhead a Torah study campaign to honor those to whom they would most like to express their thankfulness. $0.00$0.00  Come down to the playroom, girls," called Meira's father. "I want to talk to you." Nine-year-old Meira Weiss felt her stomach tighten as she and her three younger sisters headed downstairs along with their mother. During the past year, Meira's life had become one huge Extreme Makeover. Her family had moved from Margate, New Jersey, to Baltimore, leaving behind all her friends. Somehow she had made it through the first months of a new school, in a new home, with a new baby sister. "How can I repay God for all God's kindness to me?" Psalms 116:12 Lesson Summary:  Students will name detailed reasons for being thankful to the school, and will identify specific people whose work is instrumental in making the school experience positive. Students will commit to learning a section of Tanakh. Printable Lesson:  3802lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Scavenger Hunt

Thanking the Troops

Ya'akov Selavan, an 18-year-old founded Itchem Kol HaDerech (With You All the Way), an organization to show appreciation for Israeli soldiers.Inspire your students with his story and help them to work on their own way to express appreciation to Israel. $0.00$0.00  In the blink of an eye, Asael's world was shattered. While deployed in the summer of 2006 during the war against Hezbollah terrorists, his tank crew lost its bearings in Bint Jbail, an enemy stronghold in Southern Lebanon. The young IDF (Israel Defense Forces) soldier peered outside to find his way and saw a flash of light. "An anti-tank missile was speeding towards me," he recalls. The explosion partially severed one of his legs, shattered bones in the other, and badly burned his face and hands. "Two are better than one...for if they fall, the one will lift up his or her friend." Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Lesson Summary:  Students will be asked to reflect on times when they felt gratitude and appreciation for others. Students will study Jewish texts, including "Hatikvah," to learn about appreciation for the State of Israel. Students will identify reasons to appreciate Israel and ways to express that appreciation. Students will make a hakarat hatov tapestry for their classroom. Printable Lesson:  3808lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Additional Resources:  More on thanking the troops

8 Ways to Rededicate Your Room

  This article provides eight suggestions for students to rededicate themselves to important Jewish values during Hanukkah. In the accompanying lesson, students create artwork to help them in their rededication efforts, and use the text of Mah Tovu to consider the ways in which they can mark their room rededication. $0.00$0.00If you think your room is a mess, you should have seen the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In 165 B.C.E., the Maccabees returned there after claiming victory over King Antiochus and the Syrian Greeks. They found the altar polluted, the holy vessels desecrated, and barely enough olive oil to light the menorah. Judah Maccabee ordered that the Temple be cleansed and rededicated; hence, we instituted the holiday of Hanukkah, which means "dedication." Although the Holy Temple is no more, the tradition to rededicate ourselves for the better continues. "By knowledge are rooms filled with all precious and beautiful riches." Proverbs 24:4 Lesson Summary:  Students will create artwork for their bedrooms and explore ways in which they can rededicate their rooms to reflect their Judaism and Jewish values. Students will examine Jewish texts related to rededication and sacred space. Printable Lesson:  Lesson Plan Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet

Facebook Face-Off

Students will explore the issue of infringing on other peoples’ intellectual property after reading about Facebook's controversy with Harvard Connection. They will grapple with this concept through reading and discussing the article, studying relevant Jewish texts, and then role playing real life scenarios. Consider using this lesson in connection with a youth group, camp or school by spending a movie night watching  "The Social Network" .   $0.00$0.00from BabagaNewz Magazine, Kislev 5768 / November 2007 Lesson Summary:  Students will study Jewish texts to learn the Jewish view on taking intellectual property. Students will explore the difference between legal consequences and moral sanctions in Judaism. Printable Lesson:  3801lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Scenarios

High Court Limits Students' Speech

This article explores the Supreme Court case Morse v. Frederick and the balance between freedom ofspeech and the disruption of the educational process. Inthis lesson students will look at the issues of the case though a Jewish lens. Workingin groups, students will study texts related to the issue of marit ayin (avoiding theappearance of wrongdoing), and grapple with our responsibility not to incite others to sin. $0.00$0.00from BabagaNewz Magazine, Heshvan 5768 / October 2007 Lesson Summary:  Students will explore the balance in Judaism between personal freedom and the good of the community. They will share their opinions on the Morse v. Frederick case and view it through a Jewish lens. Printable Lesson:  2801lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet and Discussion Questions Additional Resources:  Activity for Students News 'N' Views Story

Cell Phones

Remind your students that  while using technology can make communication easier, it can also cause problems. In this lesson, students will learn about how texting can relate to problems with saying regretful things too quickly and will create commercials that show caring and thoughtful uses of cell phones. $0.00$0.00 A telecommunications company is developing a cell phone that will alert users if they have bad breath. The first cell phone call was made in April 1973 by Dr. Martin Cooper, who called a rival scientist to brag that he had invented the cell phone first. Birds in Australia have started mimicking ring tones. IT'S NOT A PHONE From almost anywhere in the world, including underground caves in China and overgrown jung les in the Amazon, cell phones keep people connected. "Guard your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit." Psalms 34:14 Lesson Summary:  Students will gain a basic understanding of how cell phones work. Students will explore texts that relate to the theme of patience, slowness to anger, and the power of speech in their everyday conversations. Students will create a commercial related to the Verizon “Can You Hear Me Now?” commercials. Students will think about the difference between listening and hearing, and focus on how to listen to people. Printable Lesson:  2807lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet

A Geek's Guide to Internet Glory

Make your mark on the Web--but consider the message you are sending.  What does Judaism have to say about internet posting?  Is connectivity positive or negative? After discussing the messages behind selected YouTube videos, students will plan, script, and produce their own videos.  $0.00$0.00During his 6 minute mega-hit,Evolution of Dance, posted on YouTube last summer, comedian Judson Laipply dances his way through 50 years of rock 'n' roll history. He shakes like Elvis, shimmies like Travolta, and swipes like Timberlake. The hilarious routine-watched by more than 57 million people-catapulted Laipply from relative obscurity to Internet stardom. Lesson Summary:  Students will think about how technology can be used to make a difference in the world and will create a class video and think about what type of message they want to send. Then, they will examine the role Judaism plays in posting to the Internet. Printable Lesson:  2808lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet

Raechel Rosen Rocks the World

Raechel Rosen has used her music to make positive changes in the world. Through text study, discussion, and games, students will explore the role music plays in conveying a message. The experience of this lesson can provide the framework for a larger school activity using music to have a positive impact on the world. $0.00$0.00The crowd at B.B. King's roared with anticipation as a burst of light flooded the stage. Out of the darkness sprang Creation, a six-member, teenage rock band debuting on the New York City music scene. Raechel Rosen, lead singer and songwriter, told BABAGANEWZ that on that night two years ago, she felt exhilarated, like someone who had achieved more than she dreamed possible. "Cry out, do not restrain yourself; Raise your voice like a trumpet." Isaiah 58:1 Lesson Summary:  Students will explore the issues of how music is used to convey a message and they will explore different functions of using music in Jewish tradition. Students will be inspired to use music in their own lives to create positive change in the world. Printable Lesson:  2802lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet and Discussion Questions

Senator Barbara Boxer: Speaking Out for Those Who Can't

Barbara Boxer is one senator who is not afraid to speak her mind, especially when it comes to environmental issues. Empower your students to speak oiut on pressing issues with a lesson based on Jewish texts about the power of speech. They will use their new-found understanding to make public service announcements or write to their congressmen. $0.00$0.00  Those listening to Barbara Boxer's speech on the Senate floor on March 26, 2003, could almost hear the thunderous applause of thousands of birds, polar bears, oxen, wolves, and caribou who inhabit Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. After Sen. Boxer showed many beautiful photos of the Arctic Refuge, she implored her colleagues not to destroy the pristine area by drilling for a limited supply of oil. "He will speak for you to the nation." Shemot 4:16 Lesson Summary:  Students will explore the concept of koah hadibbur as itrelates to issues in their community. Students will examine Jewish texts on koah hadibbur. Students will create public service announcements in order to experience speaking out against pressing issues in their community and will write letters to their congressional representatives to actualize koah hadibbur. Printable Lesson:  2804lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Article Chart Additional Resources:  Contact information for senators

Haim Yavin: "Mr. Television" Speaks His Mind

When Israeli TV anchor Haim Yavin produced a documentary on Israeli settlers in disputed territories, he faced harsh criticism and anger from the wider Israeli community. The accompanying lesson leads students through a discussion about how ways of speaking affect the outcome of debates and arguments using Jewish sources. $0.00$0.00A long line of Palestinians snaked slowly toward the Al-Hada security checkpoint in the West Bank, where Israeli soldiers stop and question everyone who wants to enter the country. Although the roadblock inconveniences hundreds of innocent people every day, it prevents terrorists from slipping into Israel. On this particular morning, the heavy, stagnant air suffocated one and all and made the wait feel doubly oppressive. A lone figure with a miniature video camera stood in the distance. He wore a scowl on his face and carried despair in his heart. "Let us be strong and resolute for the sake of our people." II Samuel 10:12 Lesson Summary:  Students will learn the concept of mahloket, and apply it to the debate in Israel over the disputed territories. Students will discuss ways to have a respectful debate. Students will explore why being challenged can be constructive. Printable Lesson:  2809lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Motivations for orange game

Driving Hands-Free

Ask your students to read this article about a car that does the driving for you. Through various activities, discussions, and text studies, students will explore ideas related to the concept of driving yourself, or being driven in real-life and Biblical contexts. $0.00$0.00 A test of an automated highway in California succeeded when eight driverless cars sped along at 65 mph, only 6.5 meters apart, for 15 miles. A driverless car developed at Stanford University drove 132 miles through the Mojave Desert in six hours and 53 minutes. Some cars parallel park themselves. Log on to babaganewz.com to see a video demonstration. By the time you slip behind the steering wheel of the first car you purchase with your own money, there might be little for you to do. "A person is led on the path he or she wants to go." Makkot 10b Lesson Summary:  Through playing a game, students will experience being directed and directing others. Students will articulate their opinions by weighing the pros and cons of autopilot. They will think about when it is important to make their own decisions and when it is important to get help from others. Printable Lesson:  1806lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Pros and Cons Chart

Global Warming Debate Sizzles

In this lesson, students will read about the greenhouse effect and the ensuing debate. The students will do an experiment that demonstrates what happens when floating or land-based ice melts. How does more water flowing into the sea affect the globe? Both activities illustrate how climate change affects the globe. $0.00$0.00From BabagaNewz Magazine, Tishrei 5768 / September 2007 Lesson Summary:  Students will learn about global warming, evidence for global warming, and climate changes. They will discuss the greenhouse debate and consider what might constitute sufficient evidence of global warming. Students will explore what impact global warming might have on our lives and discuss the Jewish perspective on global warming based on the sources provided. Printable Lesson:  1801lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Light bulb template Additional Resources:  Activities for Students Online Article

The Choice of a Lifetime

Read these stories with your students. They will learn that people seek the comfort of a Jewish community for any variety of reasons, from help with recovery to spiritual guidance. They will then discuss ways in which Judaism allows for individuals to change and offers the means to do so, and will help each other reflect on different ways to approach challenges. $0.00$0.00 Choosing Sobriety After her boss fired her and her parents kicked her out of their house, Rachel Cohen (not her real name) fled to a friend's apartment. But it wasn't long before that situation soured, and she was forced to leave. Rachel's last stop in her steep, personal decline was sharing a house with people smoking heroin. "That's when I realized that if I stayed there," Rachel, now 17, recalls, "this is where my life would be going." "What is the proper path that a person should choose? Whatever is a credit to him and earns him his honor." Pirkei Avot 2:1 Lesson Summary:  Students will grapple with the concept of behirah hofshit by role-playing difficult scenarios. Students will discuss the ways in which Judaism allows for individuals to change and offers the means to do so, and will help each other reflect on different ways to approach challenges. Printable Lesson:  1808lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Scenarios Source Sheet Additional Resources:  Students Against Destructive Decisions Crowell, Nancy A. et al. Adolescent Decision-Making: Implications for Prevention Programs, 1999.

BRACHA Academy Course Catalog

Read this fun Jewish parody of Hogwarts. $0.00$0.00In an exhaustive survey of training programs published to coincide with Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Useless News and Worthless Retorts magazine awarded its highest rating to BABAGANEWZ Reflect and Consider How Academy (BRACHA). BRACHA offers talmidim (students) comprehensive courses that not only explore the human heart, but also awaken students to an ancient wisdom that cultivates happiness and fulfillment. Lesson Summary:  Students will examine and reflect upon their actions during the past year through the use of multiple modalities. Students will study and discuss various Jewish texts related to teshuvah. Printable Lesson:  1809lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Log Sheets Source Sheet Mehilah-o-grams

"This is Where I Belong"

Young men from the United States share why they chose to join the Israeli Defense Force. The accompanying lesson teaches about the importance of Biblical and modern heroes who chose to fight for Eretz Yisrael. The class will develop a tzedakah project to support lone soldiers. $0.00$0.00  Basic training jolted Binyamin Zemelman out of his comfort zone. He faced freezing cold weather, grueling work, and primitive living conditions. "I would picture all my friends back in college, sitting around eating pizza and listening to music," recalls Binyamin, 21. "Since Israel is in trouble, I will share that burden." Ta'anit 11a Lesson Summary:  Students will identify why people might choose to join the Israeli army. Students will list the challenges for foreigners to serve in the Israeli army. Students will learn the phrase “hayal boded,” lone soldier. Students will organize a project to help hayalim bodedim. Printable Lesson:  1807lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Additional Resources:  Contact information for the 3 soldiers: Mahal2000 Jewish Agency Bldg. 17 Kaplan St., Tel Aviv 64734, Israel The official Mahal website Information about Americans who volunteered to fight for the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. A Package From Home Read about Barbara Silverman and her tzedakah project in this Jerusalem Post article: A Taste of Home on the Front by Ruhama Shattan Standing Together Connections Israel: Bringing Jewish People Together Stories of two Americans who came to Israel in 1947 on their own to help fight for Israel: Letters from Jerusalem by Zipporah Porath and The Jews’ Secret Fleet by Murray Greenfield and Joseph Hochstein.

Miri Ben-Ari: Playing Her Own Tune

Read about Miri Ben-Ari, the hip-hop violinist, who chose an unconventional career for a classically trained musician. In the accompanying lesson, students will reflect on times they've made difficult choices and create storyboards that depict choice-making moments. $0.00$0.00Miri Ben-Ari stood onstage at the Apollo Theater in New York City. She cradled her violin in her arm and stared at the audience. Although her eyes sparkled, they concealed a defiant determination, as if she knew something the hip-hop heads waiting impatiently in the darkness didn't: Her violin was about to rocket hip-hop music to the next level of expression, which she would call "urban strings." Casually, she raised her fiddle and positioned it under her chin. Then, without a trace of the fury that would soon explode from her right hand, she elegantly lifted the bow. Lesson Summary:  Students will consciously identify the choices they make and how those choices affect their own lives, others around them, and the general environment. They will set goals for themselves to work toward making better choices. Printable Lesson:  1804lesson.pdf Additional PDFs:  Source Sheet Journal Prompt

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