Hebrew homework or no Hebrew homework? That is the question. For the congregational school, it’s often a tricky subject. Yet as time with students decreases, and educators look for ways to spend the time they do have with students fostering connections and building relationships, the opportunity to use technology to encourage students to practice at home can be a welcome solution.
At Temple Sinai in Washington D.C. all the Hebrew students in grades 3-6 are expected to do 30 minutes of Hebrew homework each week, in several short sessions of five to ten minutes each. The emphasis is on practicing decoding and reading fluency using online materials that provide guidance on pronunciation. “Our parents and students like being able to use the computer (no need to look for the book) and hear the correct tune and pronunciation,” said Diane Zimmerman, Associate Director of Education.
Most of Temple Sinai’s 93 third graders used Alef Bet Quest in the Online learning Center this year, using the digital exercises and Hebrew video games that match lessons in the book. Older students used a combination of online practice sites, including ‘Click and Read’ and ‘Click and Pray,’ the free practice modules available at Behrmanhouse.com.
To encourage, support, and motivate students (and their parents), Diane, known at school as ‘Mrs. Z’, has implemented a Star system that reinforces the weekly goal, rewards consistent practice, and creates an environment of fun.
“I credit my colleague Cantor Allen Leider of Temple Rodef Shalom of Falls Church, VA, for the basic format” said Diane. “It’s a Hebrew Star Sheet. For each week of class there is a spot for the student to write the homework assignment and six stars to color in – each representing 5 minutes of homework time, plus a place each week for the parents to initial.” Each student keeps this sheet in a homework folder that goes back and forth each week, and the assignments are also emailed home.
Follow up is a key component of the system. “At the start of every class, the teacher asks to see the Star Sheet, and acknowledges and praises the work done,” explained Diane. “Students then write in the homework assignment for the upcoming week.”
Whenever a student accumulates 30 stars, he or she gets to choose something from ‘Mrs. Z’s Treasure Box.’ “At the visit, I initial where the 30 stars have been met, give positive reinforcement and enjoy watching the students choose their treasure," said Diane, who gets her treasures from Oriental Trading for $.50 - $1.00 each. "I take pride in finding items that appeal to the students. This year, the most popular item for girls and boys alike in 3rd – 6th grade were small beany baby style stuffed animals with names. Other popular items have included large super balls, funky sunglasses and any type of stress ball.”
