The Kohelet Prize Database

Subject: Computer Science

Mishkeh Mechanic / Success Strategist 2.0

Middle school students completed a project in their STEAM cross-curricular class and followed the Teshuva process to "realize," and thus capitalize upon, their mistakes and successes; this highly replicable, easily transferable project took on a far-reaching mind of its own, with students at the helm of the real-life skills ship.

By: Sri Sundaram, Ariella Landy from Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Economics/ Business, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Foreign Language, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Music, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Physical Education/Health, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology, Tefila

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, Flipped Learning, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, Wholebrain Teaching, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Creators of Content: How Students Can Co-Design Their Understanding of Their World

Students at Pressman Academy from grades K-5th participate in STEAM twice a week for 45 minutes. During this time they are presented with a variety of options to explore a given content area. Ultimately they create prototypes to solve complex problems and models to represent how they understand the world using tools from cardboard to CNC machines.

By: Rex Beaber from Pressman Academy of Temple Beth Am

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, Math, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Technology

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, Gamification, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, 21st Century Skills

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JSTEAM – Melacha Makerspace

JSTEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) Makerspace. STEAM through a Jewish lens in sync with Maimonides School's mission creating a beautiful blend of Torah and Worldly experience with hands-on creativity.

By: Yosef Rubin from Maimonides Hebrew Day School

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, Gemara, Halacha, Mishnah, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Science, Tanach, Technology

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Experiential Education, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Maimonides Integrated Connections

Three interconnected gears with the letters M.I.C. representing Maimonides Integrated Connections. This encourages students and teachers to find cross-curricular connections, bridging various subjects and disciplines, and integrating classroom learning with real life experiences.

By: Rabbi Mendel Rubin from Maimonides Hebrew Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Foreign Language, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Music, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Physical Education/Health, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology, Tefila

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, Language Immersion, Montessorri, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, Soulful Education, Wholebrain Teaching, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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JCDS Learning Adventures

JCDS Learning Adventures are deeply immersive week-long interdisciplinary units developed around real-world challenges. While students in each grade have amazingly diverse experiences, all Learning Adventures are connected by a common pedagogical vision: students collaborating to develop and share solutions to tangible real-world problems.

By: Jared Matas, Tehila Cherubino, Sarah Kanigsberg, Alla Shimron, Nikki Cohen, Michal Baruch, Chavah Goldman, Meg Lederman, Avi Minder, Maayan Lipiner, Emily Perlman, Avi Bukiet, Andrea Silton, Ben Einsidier, Vered Singer, Oren Kaunfer, Carissa McKinney, Ziva Hassenfeld, Rabbi Lior Nevo, Josh Mocle, Joanne Baker, Dorit Zimri from JCDS, Boston's Jewish Community Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, Mishnah, Music, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Technology, Tefila

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Design-Thinking Model, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Learning in Common: Creating a School-Wide Collaborative Learning Space

The Information and Technology team of Portland Jewish Academy recognized the need for a more collaborative, connective, and centralized learning space for our school. We created a place that is a living expression of our core values of limmud (study), kehillah (community), and zehut (Jewish identity).

By: Michael Hyde, Molly Sloan, Matthew Rosenberg from Portland Jewish Academy

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Literature, Mishnah, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Technology, Tefila

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, 21st Century Skills

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Coding helps Tanach come to life

Teachers at the Maimonides School integrated students’ knowledge of computer coding with their Judaic Studies content to help students connect with Jewish practice and texts. Students in 2nd-4th grade used Scratchjr, KIBO robots, and the engineering design process to demonstrate their learning in Judaic Studies.

By: Dani Carrus from Maimonides School

Grade(s): 1, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science

Pedagogy: Blended Learning

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Schechter Westchester’s K-12 MakerSpace Program 2.0

Four makerspaces, six innovative educators, two campuses, students ranging in age from 4-18. This is the basis for our culture-shifting focus on maker education across all grades, K-12. The learning that goes on in these spaces, and the impact that it has on thinking throughout our institution, has revolutionized how students approach their world.

By: Danny Aviv from Solomon Schechter School of Westchester

Grade(s): K, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, Math, Science

Pedagogy: Constructivist

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Schechter Westchester’s TOM (Tikkun Olam Makers) Makeathon

SW's TOM Makeathon, a fully student-run initiative, is the embodiment of our school's dual goals: the application of real-world skills to revolutionize student thinking and improve the world in tangible ways. Teams of students work with individuals with disabilities to design and fabricate products that will make daily life more manageable.

By: Danny Aviv from Solomon Schechter School of Westchester

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Engineering, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social and Emotional Learning, Technology

Pedagogy: Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, Wholebrain Teaching, 21st Century Skills

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Austin Jewish Academy (AJA) Fifth-Grade Sustainability Curriculum

As part of AJA's commitment to educating life-long environmental stewards, Ms. Hidalgo developed a reproducible model curriculum to teach sustainability through opportunities for real-world learning. Her program involves innovative classroom study and school-to-farm service learning and has an extraordinary impact on her students and AJA community.

By: Karen Hidalgo from Austin Jewish Academy

Grade(s): 4, 5, 6, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Economics/ Business, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Halacha, History, Math, Mishnah, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Physical Education/Health, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology, literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Design-Thinking Model, Flipped Learning, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, Soulful Education, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Film Festival in Bloom

The goal of the fifth grade film festival project is to develop critical thinking across the curriculum by integrating the use of Bloom’s taxonomy in a project that encompasses writing, researching, technology, math, environmental science, and service.

By: Kim Sivick, Jodi Deichman from Katz Hillel Day School

Grade(s): 5, 6, 7, 8, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Math, Science, Technology, literature

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, Wholebrain Teaching, 21st Century Skills

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Bayit Rishon Museum

The Bayit Rishom Museum is a project that was developed to allow students to view Tanach as a historical vehicle and for Mesopotamian artifacts to be used to appreciate Jewish History. Using important historical artifacts, students created virtually museums to teach about the Bayit Rishon Era.

By: Jeremy Hellman from Yeshivat Noam

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology

Pedagogy: Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Beth Tfiloh’s Lower School Israel Fair: A Student-led Interdisciplinary Experience

Beth Tfiloh Lower School students participated in a multi-week and school-wide interdisciplinary learning experience about various landmarks in Israel. Students (K-4th grade) conceived of, developed, and created fifteen hands-on exhibits to share their learning with the broader student and family community.

By: Elana Weissman, Elissa Hozore from Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Ivrit, Math, Music, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Experiential Education, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, 21st Century Skills

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An Interdisciplinary Study of the Lenape People

SW’s aim is for students to cultivate their identity as global citizens who recognize and respect cultural similarities and differences among kol yoshvei tevel (all who dwell on Earth). Our third-grade study of the Lenape tribe showcases that effort through an integrated curriculum incorporating hands-on, project-based learning and exploration.

By: Elise Goldman, Alyssa Gioio, Sara Herbrand, Denise McGinnity, Glenn Simonelli from Schechter Westchester

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Math, Science, Social Studies, Technology, literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Experiential Education, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Wholebrain Teaching, 21st Century Skills

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Enhancing STEM Enrichment Curricula

To increase student passion and development in STEM, I have designed and crafted new and innovative enrichment courses in both computer science and high-level physics. This includes an on-ramp course in computer science principles, a second-year computer science course, and a two-year rotation of four semester long physics courses.

By: Chris Senhouse from Gann Academy

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Science

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Hevruta Learning, Montessorri, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Finding Meaning: Prayer Through Reflection and Integration

We launched an initiative in our Lower School where the General Studies teachers collaborated with their Judaic Studies counterparts to help students make meaningful connections between themes that were being studied across both disciplines in the second and fourth grades and themes that emerge throughout their daily Tefilla.

By: Tali Seinfeld, Tami Teller from Ramaz School

Grade(s): 1, 2, 3, 4, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Ivrit, Music, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology, Tefila, literature

Pedagogy: Language Immersion, Social and Emotional Learning

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The Innovation Lab – The Space where Maker Ed and Jewish Ed Inspire

We’ve built a culture designed around an open space where students actualize content learned in their Jewish day school & apply it in ways that are most meaningful to them. Students collaborate & think creatively, using 3D printers, woodworking, coding, graphic design, and a host of other tools to create tangible outcomes of their education.

By: Tzvi Hametz from Gindi Maimonides Academy

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Economics/ Business, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Foreign Language, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Math, Mishnah, Music, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Physical Education/Health, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology, Tefila, literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, Flipped Learning, Gamification, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Wholebrain Teaching, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Unique classroom methodology implemented in HS Coding class

An overview of the unique and productive technical learning approach - essentially an integration of personal and formal educational theories together with the teaching framework defined by codeHS.com - I implemented in the Coding and STEM robotics class I currently teach at Rae Kushner High School.

By: Dr. Reuven Regev from Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Engineering, Math, Technology

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, Experiential Education, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, Wholebrain Teaching, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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STEM Education and Crosscutting Concepts

The Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School has developed a model of STEM integration with general and Judaic studies using the Next Generation Science Standard's Crosscutting Concepts (CCC). This model of integration is the only one in the nation and is the subject of research and collaboration with The George Washington University.

By: Alexis Soffler, Jennifer Rittberg, Eve Margol, Michal Friedman, MollyBeth Rushfield, Nanci Henoch, Hillary Gruber, Andrea Washington, Sharon Barad, Erin Magee, Jessie Nathans from The Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Math, Mishnah, Music, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology, Tefila, literature

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Experiential Education, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Modular Educational Games

A kit to produce educational games in any language, in any subject, and at any level of difficulty. The process of creating these games develops the student’s learning abilities (focus on detail, categorization, collaboration,self-direction) and social skills.
These games can be used as a part of teaching, reinforcement, review, and assessment.

By: Lior Kakon, Yigal Kakon from Hillel Torah

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Foreign Language, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Math, Mishnah, Music, Physical Education/Health, Science, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology, literature

Pedagogy: Design-Thinking Model, Gamification, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Are You ‘Board’ with Traditional Lesson Plans? GAME ON!

GameOn! provides students with innovative skills they use to create board games based on their mastery of a particular topic. Students transform their knowledge of any subject into a tool used by other students. Creating a website, we connected classrooms across the globe through educational game play and development.

By: Stephanie Teitelbaum and Lauren Resnick from Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Math, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Technology, literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, Gamification, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, Wholebrain Teaching, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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ART LAB

Today art rooms have become hubs that dynamically enrich students’ lives in multiple ways. The art room at MJGDS uses traditional materials in addition to modern technologies and the infusion of Judaism, Math, Science, Engineering, Language Arts, and Social Studies make it a high tech space for student creativity and innovation.

By: Shana Gutterman from Martin J. Gottlieb Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Foreign Language, History, Math, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach, Technology, literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Design-Thinking Model, Gamification, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, Wholebrain Teaching, 21st Century Skills

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MakerLab: Innovation and Creation

Hillel Academy's goal is for students to “learn how to learn”.  We don’t give instructions in Makerlab, we give tools and guidance, and challenge the students to find answers and solutions on their own. It is amazing to watch the next generation of innovators get their first taste of inventing.

By: Michael Gamson from Hillel Academy

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Math, Music, Science, Technology

Pedagogy: Design-Thinking Model, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Gan Chaiot Chadash–The New Zoo Project

With the goal of designing a habitat for an animal on the endangered species list, the students utilized their knowledge of area and perimeter to create a habitat enclosure to scale, research the taxonomy of their chosen animal, and explore our Jewish duty to care for and protect animals. The unit is infused with Hebrew text and vocabulary.

By: Frannie Magnani, Ruthi Ofek from Shalom School

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Economics/ Business, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Ivrit, Math, Science, Tanach, Technology

Pedagogy: Design-Thinking Model, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Torah N Technology- Mishna PowerPoint

The TNT Program (Torah ‘n Technology) at Maimonides integrates curriculum studies and enrichment programs with technology, following our school motto: “A Beautiful Blend, Torah and Worldly Experience.” This program helps students find relevant and creative expression to their learning, as well as instruction in important technology skills.

The Mishna/Talmud PowerPoint program empowers students to creatively visualize the content and Mishnaic language, transforming basic words, letters, and text into an exciting multi-media format.

By: Rabbi Shmuly Rubin from Maimonides Hebrew Day School

Grade(s): 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, Mishnah, Tanach, Graphic Design

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Shake Your Lulav!

This is a Google Slide presentation about the mitzva of Ushpizin, welcoming honorary guests into the sukkah, which integrates content and skill building, as well as Hebrew language acquisition. It was originally designed for use as a flipped classroom.

By: Ms. Lisa Richman, Ms. Yochi Paltin from Perelman Jewish Day School - Stern Center

Grade(s): 4, 5, 6, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Halacha, Ivrit, Mishnah, Music, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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MAP & LEAP Program

The Pressman Enrichment Academy Program is designed for those children in grades 2-5 who demonstrate the ability to work beyond their current grade level and offers opportunities for appropriately challenging learning as an adjunct to instruction in the classroom. The program is an acceleration program which is designed to meet the rate at which the child learns and to meet the level at which the child shows academic competence. The program consists of two parts: Math Acceleration Program ( MAP) and Language Arts Enrichment Acceleration Program ( LEAP).

By: Ms. Barbara Schmidt from Pressman Academy

Grade(s): 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Literature, Math

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning

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License to Read Hebrew

This is a reading program designed to foster an enjoyment of reading Hebrew while cultivating the skills necessary for navigating Jewish life.

By: Ms. Lisa Richman from Perelman Jewish Day School - Stern Center

Grade(s): 4, 5, 6, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Ivrit, Tanach, Siddur Liturgy, Hebrew Literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, 21st Century Skills

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Global Competency For Jewish Learners

A Grade 10 Global Competency Course that will empower and engage our students to become global citizens within a Jewish context. Students will learn a diverse range of practical skills to prepare them for jobs of the future. The final class project will be a fully kosher, volunteer service trip to Ecuador, where students will build a school, visit a Synagogue in Quito, celebrate Shabbat in the Andes and put into practice the lessons they learned during the course.

By: Mr. Jamie Cohen from TanenbaumCHAT

Grade(s): 10, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Literature, Math, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills, Global competency skills development, Phenomenon based learning (a new curriculum model created in the Finland school system)

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Enrichment@Maayanot

To meet the educational needs of our strongest students, who are not fully sufficiently challenged by the Honors classroom we instituted an enrichment program. Each student chooses two projects (bekiut and b'iyun) to work on over the course of the year. The handful of students participating across the grades, through specially geared programming form a peer community of motivated achievers who push each other to discover and reach their full potential.

By: Rabbi Donny Besser, Mrs. Rivka Kahan from Ma'ayanot Yeshiva High School

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning

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Differentiation and Newsela.com: A Match Made in Heaven

My entry discusses the need for every teacher and Learning Specialist to use this website in their classrooms or Learning Centers. It can be used for differentiation among students from third grade, all the way through high school.

By: Mrs. Meryl Recinos from Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey

Grade(s): 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Ivrit, Literature, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: 21st Century Skills

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Creating an focused but open engineering makerspace

During this 6 week course, students were exposed to open-ended engineering design and multidisciplinary entrepreneurship in this unique makerspace course. Students with minimal background in STEM and electronics came away with a physical 3d prototype with sensors coded on arduino, a blog/website, initial business analysis, and in many cases an app. These were all created by the students with guidance from students a few years older. Students were given short focused PBL lessons to build their skills in key areas such as electronics, arduino coding, patent law, business development, app design etc. followed up by individualized online learning specific for their projects.

By: Mr. Yosef Skolnick from Shulamith High School of Cedarhurst

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Math, Science, STEM, Technology, Engineering

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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“Reaching Each Child”.

Our Sages say "chanoch l'naar al pi darko" - teach each child in their own way. It is critical to understand the student as an individual with their strengths and weaknesses. Only then can we truly educate them.

By: Mrs. Chaya Teldon, Miss Colleen O'Brien, Mr. Dani Hak, Mrs. Mindy Rogers, Mrs. Yudit Kasowitz, Ms. Sarah Kugelman from The Jewish Academy of Suffolk County

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Halacha, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Music, Science, Music

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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STEAM Initiative

The Ma’ayanot STEAM initiative orchestrates a learning environment which fosters creativity and reasoning, compelling students to evaluate, ideate, prototype, test, and iterate . Our philosophy is one of Constructionism which shares constructivism’s connotation of learning as ‘building knowledge structures’ and adds the idea that this happens most pronounced in a context where the learner is consciously engaged in constructing an entity. Students are forced to engage dynamically with their creations in order to prevail in the fruition of their design.

By: Mrs. Orly Nadler, Mrs. Gila Stein, Mrs. Reyce Krause from Ma'ayanot Yeshiva High School

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Math, Science

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Mah Nishtana Goes Tech

Over the course of last school year first graders learned the basics of coding using Scratch Jr. Each lesson in Scratch Jr. also included concepts that were taught elsewhere in the curriculum. The first graders extended their coding skills late last spring by programming our resident robots to travel to a designated spot and ask and answer the Mah Nishtana in the correct order as we had studied in class in preparation for Pesach.

By: Mrs. Toby Kaplowitz, Ms. Elissa Hozore from Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School

Grade(s): 1, 2, 3, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Halacha, Ivrit, Math

Pedagogy: Constructivist, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Jewish Heroes Congress

This unit was developed to help students increase their knowledge of mitzvot and virtues and help them be more discerning when choosing people to hold in high esteem.

By: Ms. Lisa Richman from Perelman Jewish Day School - Stern Center

Grade(s): 4, 5, 6, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Immigration Fair

I teach the same students 4th grade Texas History and then 5th grade US History the following year. We put on an Immigration Fair for 2-5th grades using what we learned about Immigration into both Galveston and Ellis Island.

By: Mrs. Cathryn Mellon from Beth Yeshurun Day School

Grade(s): 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Literature, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Facilitating Critical Thinking through Reflection and Problem-Solving

I facilitate critical thinking through a steady practice of reflection and problem-solving with my students. I believe that these social and emotional practices help them think creatively about themselves and, ultimately, their learning.

By: Ms. Randi Gordner from The Jewish Day School of Metropolitan Seattle

Grade(s): 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Literature, Music, Science

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Collaborative technology in the classroom: pilot project

In a ground-breaking incorporation of collaborative technology in the classroom, fourth grade boys and seventh grade girls piloted an integrated multi-week project in language arts and history respectively. Students were provided with project guidelines and a bank of iPads and worked in teams to share their findings in an original video using script writing, costuming, set design, acting, videography, and audio-video editing.

By: Mrs. Lynn Karz, Mr. Robert Lipman, Mrs. Ashley Scotti, Rabbi Yisroel Pollock from Yeshiva Aharon Yaakov Ohr Eliyahu

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Literature

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills, IBL - inquiry based learning

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Makerspace Failure= Learning

In my K-5 Makerspace classes, students are able to explore, design, engineer, create, collaborate and educate. They are exposed to hundreds of different materials, tools, and supplies ranging from straws, to robotic LittleBits, to broken VCR players. Students are taught, encouraged, and accepting to challenges as learning opportunities and understand that in the Makerspace, there is not failure, only learning.

By: Ms. Jamie Moskowitz from Perelman Jewish Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Math, Science

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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iPad English Classroom Trial: Challenges, Successes, Discoveries, and Failures

Over the academic year of 2014-5, I embraced the introduction of iPads across the entire SAR High School freshman class by taking certain risks and often failing at integrating the iPad into my already digital curriculum. A record of my efforts were recorded on a public blog that I used as both a record of my “trial run” and a platform for networking with other iPad educators via social media. In my year-long blog, I shared questions, answers, successes, challenges, and yes, even failures regarding the first-year introduction of iPads into my already paperless English classroom. My blog record shows that while I failed at fully integrating the iPad as a media device, and while I failed at fully aligning iPad apps with my already digital curriculum, I succeeded at researching, recognizing, and even demonstrating the iPad’s strengths and challenges in my English classroom.

By: Dr. Hillel Broder from SAR High School

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: 21st Century Skills

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Computer Lab

Utilizing online computer courses for remedial, standard, and advanced students.

By: Mr. Daniel Rosenblum from Mesivta Shaarei Arazim

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Halacha, Literature, Math

Pedagogy: 21st Century Skills

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Who is Melvin Bubble?: Using Literacy to Enhance Our 21st Century Skills

The 3rd graders worked on a beginning of the year interdisciplinary assignment as a getting to know you better project. The project combined many 21st century skills, including communication, creativity & innovation, and global awareness. The project centered around the book Who is Melvin Bubble? by author Nick Bruel and culminated with the students getting to understand the real world outside their classroom by meeting Mr. Bruel via Skype!

By: Ms. Kimberly McDermid from Denver Jewish Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, History, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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6-Week Entrepreneurship makerspace

During this 6 week course, students were exposed to open-ended engineering design and multidisciplinary entrepreneurship in this unique makerspace course. Students with minimal background in STEM and electronics came away with a physical 3d prototype with sensors coded on arduino, a blog/website, initial business analysis, and in many cases an app. These were all created by the students with guidance from students a few years older. Students were given short focused PBL lessons to build their skills in key areas such as electronics, arduino coding, patent law, business development, app design etc. followed up by individualized online learning specific for their projects.

By: Mr. Yosef Skolnick from Shulamith High School of Cedarhurst

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Science, STEM, Technology, Engineering

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Where the heart feels at home – מקום שלבו חפץ

The Netivot Upper Elementary learning environment is warm, inviting, stimulating, and vibrant like no other. Our classroom setting incorporates collective responsibility, independence, freedom of movement, freedom of choice and peer learning, and utilizes multiple modalities of instruction. This ground-breaking classroom promotes growth in all areas, academic, social, emotional, and spiritual, embodying the adage: אין אדם לומד אלא במקום שלבו חפץ.

By: Mr. Dovi Yarmush, Rav Darren Levin, Mrs. Daniella Barishansky, Mrs. Shannon Tuorto from Yeshivat Netivot Montessori

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, Montessorri, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Turn Tube

This is a tool I invented to maximize student work time and teacher conferencing. The teacher can work one on one with a child easily while other kids are engaged in their work. Every year, the children ask what this is and love using it!

By: Ms. Amy Kohen from Schechter Westchester

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy:

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The de Toledo High School Media Lab

The Amnon and Ronit Band Media Lab at de Toledo High School is an innovative learning environment which promotes academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth. Over the last 12 years, the lab has evolved from a basic computer lab to a flexible and creative space designed to serve the varied educational needs of students and teachers in the media arts including: video production, animation, photography, graphic design, and computer science as well as serving the broader school community for instructional support, school and professional development.

By: Mr. Roger Blonder from de Toledo High School

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach, All academic subjects can be served by the media lab through interdisciplinary programs and projects.

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, UBD - understanding by design, Constructivist, Blended Learning, 21st Century Skills

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Technology… Innovation and Integration featuring the Startup Incubator

The Adelson Educational Campus has constructed a 5000 square feet, state-of-the-art, invention and entrepreneurial workshop: the Startup Incubator. In this space, teachers and mentors work collaboratively with students to employ the design cycle in identifying and tackling real-world challenges, prototyping a wide range of products via coding, digital media, and 3D fabrication. This innovative, interdisciplinary learning environment, paired with school wide one-to-world device deployment and extensive technology professional development, is providing our community a relevant and progressive “Education for Life.”

By: Dr. Camille McCue, Mr. Leon Wilde, Mrs. Robin Pence, Dr. Yvonne Houy, Miss Rachel Ziter, Mr. Tobin Herringshaw, Mr. David Philippus from The Adelson Educational Campus

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Math, Science, Tanach, STEAM, Technology, Engineering

Pedagogy: Constructivist, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Schechter Westchester’s MakerSpace

Our Idea Incubator (The INC) is the first MakerSpace built in a Jewish institution in North America. It houses Schechter Westchester’s Engineering and Entrepreneurship (E2) program, in which students take advantage of an innovative, modular learning environment to develop crucial skills such as creativity, collaboration, mechanical and electrical engineering, computer programming, public speaking, confidence, and—most importantly—fearlessness.

By: Dr. Danny Aviv from Solomon Schechter School of Westchester

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Math, Science

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, Constructivist, Blended Learning, 21st Century Skills

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Learning Environment – Jennifer Dolny

My presentation displays the learning environment in my classroom. This learning environment encourages student centered learning and promotes academic, social, and emotional growth.

By: Mrs. Jennifer Dolny from Yeshivat Noam

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, 21st Century Skills

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Innovative Learning in a Flexible Space

Our new innovation studio houses iPad Pros, Chromebooks, a green screen and a 3D printer. We offer flexible seating to accommodate a variety of educational needs, as well as a movable wall so our space can expand as needed.

By: Ms. Deborah Harris, Mrs. Marci Rubinstein from Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Science, Tanach, Design Thinking

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Flexible Seating in The Classroom

I found that by giving students a choice they tend to take more ownership. In the classroom, I wanted them to take ownership in learning. I chose to try flexible seating in the classroom which gave students a chance to have a choice in where/ how they sit while learning. I found by giving students a choice in seating very successful and I found the focus in my classroom to rise.

By: Ms. Danielle Levin from Perelman Jewish Day School (Stern Center)

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Science

Pedagogy: 21st Century Skills

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Area 251

Our program provides a constructivist based pedagogy that facilitates real world, solution-based, student outcomes. The makerspace provides for a hands-on learning environment that uniquely inspires creativity, invites curiosity and celebrates individual solutions.

By: Mrs. Robyn Brewer from The Jewish Educational Center RTMA

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Science

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, Constructivist, 21st Century Skills

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A Little Google with a Jewish Twist

Our school has been transformed to replace traditional classrooms with opportunities for project-based learning that emphasizes 21st-century skills in creativity, collaboration, critical thinking and communication. The physical design facilitates these educational goals, and impacts student-centered learning in increased motivation and achievement. It has put Hillel at the forefront of the paradigm shift in education, wherein student-driven inquiry develops tomorrow's problem-solvers, and gives children the skills they need to inherit their world, and not the factory-model, outmoded 20th-century model of education that no longer aligns with the skills students need in an ever-changing global world, and does so, most importantly, through the context of a Jewish education, which gives them the moral and ethical, values-based foundation they need to navigate a complex world.

By: Mrs. Joan Freedman from Hillel Day School of Metropolitan Detroit

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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“Unity in the School Community”

Jewish Day Schools often face a dichotomy between the Judaic and General Studies Departments. The Jewish Academy is making a priority of tackling this challenge through innovative means. Our goal is to create a seamless curriculum.

By: Mrs. Chaya Teldon, Ms. Sarah Kugelman, Mrs. Yudit Kasowitz, Miss Colleen O'Brien, Mr. Dani Hak, Mrs. Mindy Rogers from The Jewish Academy

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Halacha, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Music, Science

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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The Torah Times, Creative Torah Journalism

"The Torah Times" presents Torah events as "Breaking news" Happening right now! All the text and presentation are developed by Maimonides students, blending Torah knowledge with creativity, humor, writing, and graphic design.

Highly creative, The Torah Times engages students to find the soul /essential messages of the Torah that connects to life & current events today. Protagonists such as Abraham/Lot, Moses/Pharoh, or Aaron/Korach shed their ancient robes and venues to address current issues; Midrash/commentaries become our news outlets with the inside scoop. This personifies Rashi's Translation of the Shma: "Hayom Al Levaech" -not as an old chronicle, but as actual, new, and current.

By: Rabbi Israel Rubin, Rabbi Michael Caras from Maimonides Hebrew Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Gemara, History, Literature, Mishnah, Tanach, Creative Writing

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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The Rosh Chodesh Calendar Project

The Rosh Chodesh Calendar project is a two year multiweek integration program which has been successfully incorporated into our school for the past four years. Year one involves integration between the science, technology, art, Ivrit/Hebrew language and Judaic teachers for grade five; year two integrates Humanities, physical education, math/engineering, art and Judaic instruction for grade six/Middle School. Each of the multiweek learning units culminates in a presentation showcasing student individual and class research projects for parents, and occasionally the greater Indianapolis Jewish community

By: Mrs. Miriam Gettinger, Dawn Bick, MaryEllen Fellegy, Maya Shmoel from Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis

Grade(s): 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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The Jewish Academy’s Reflection Integration

Our team integrated the theme of reflection across all grades as well as across all subjects. Reflection is an overall strategy and theme for the school. Laying the groundwork in our first unit is key to a successful year of reflection and revision.

By: Miss Colleen O'Brien, Mrs. Sarah Kugelman, Mrs. Yudit Kasowitz, Mr. Dani Hak, Mrs. Chaya Teldon from The Jewish Academy of Suffolk County

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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The Akiva Broadcasting Network

The Akiva Broadcasting Network (ABN) is an interactive, team-oriented program of study where students develop communications skills; broadcast technology and technical skills; and critical life skills, integrating Jewish and Secular Studies across the curriculum.

ABN is part of the Kid TV program developed by Professor Larry Katz with the objective to teach cross curricular skills to students through the creation of TV newscasts that are shared with other members of their school community via an internal broadcast network and are also shared on the school website. Student select the news items, prepare the D’vray Torah, and stories on famous Jewish personalities, write the scripts, shoot and edit the stories, do the interviews, take on the roles of anchors and reporters, manage the broadcasts and handle all of the technical jobs
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dj_uSY53-dM&feature=youtu.be).

By: Rabbi Michael Greenwald, Rabbi Chaim Goldenberg, Professor Larry Katz, Ms. Alexandra Sibson from Akiva Academy

Grade(s): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning

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Tashlich STEAM Waterfall

This project was planned for grades TK-8 to participate in a school-wide STEAM project to learn about Rosh Hashana, Tikkun Olan, Teshuvah, and Tashlich. The project included integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math into Judaic Studies.

By: Ms. Judith Hendlish, Mrs. Marion Schwartz, Mr. Arnon Arad from Abraham Joshua Heschel and Kadima

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Math, Music, Science, Engineering, Technology, Chagim

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Mishkan Meets Makerspace

In our “Mishkan meets Makerspace” unit of study, we integrated skills from all S.T.E.A.M. disciplines, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics and enhanced our studies of Parshat Trumah by creating our own three dimensional model Mishkan. Using the chumash text as a foundation for purposeful learning, students worked collaboratively to bring the complex details of the Mishkan to life with excitement and passion. The final product incorporated all four learning modalities and six of Gardner’s multiple intelligences enabling each student to experience, engage and conceptualize ideas according to individual learning style and interest.

By: Ms. Elana Trombka, Mrs. Sarah Hochman from Bi-Cultural Day School

Grade(s): 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Ivrit, Math, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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The Makers Movement @ Kellman Brown Academy

Kellman Brown Academy is committed to the principle that ALL of our students are critical thinkers and problem-solvers. Through introducing the Makers Movement into the culture of the school, students are challenged to "make" what they need to solve real-world problems using their imagination and any materials they can get their hands on. The Makers culture promotes independence, ingenuity, and collaborative work.

By: Mrs. Chelsea Saraczewski, Mrs. Helene Sterling from Kellman Brown Academy

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Math, Science

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Jewish Folktales

The folktale unit is a culminating cross-curricular project for students in fifth grade, integrating Jewish Studies, reading, writing, and public speaking. Students read a variety of Jewish folktales and choose one to study in depth. We strengthened this project by partnering with a local theater company, Wolf Performing Arts Center, to work with the students to present it effectively, analyze the setting and values, and reflect on the morals of the tale.

By: Mrs. Mindy Civan, Mrs. Abbye Cornfield from Perelman Jewish Day School

Grade(s): 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Literature, Mishnah

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Human Body- Bones, Joints, and Muscles

This unit highlights the skeletal-muscular system. Incorporating science, math, writing, reading, and art, students learned about the bones, joints, and muscles and how they work together as a system. They also visited with an expert in the field who was able to provide them with real life connections to what they learned in the classroom.

By: Mrs. Missy Friedman, Mrs. Ilene Brot from Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago

Grade(s): 3, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Literature, Math, Science

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, PBL - project based learning

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Haggadah Companion

The Haggadah Companion was a collaborative, cumulative project among the Judaic, language arts, art, and technology disciplines. It was designed as a supplement to any Haggadah.

By: Rabbi Avrohom Gordon, Mrs. Andrea Gamlin, Mrs. Donna Lerner from Charlotte Jewish Day School

Grade(s): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Literature, Math, Jewish Holidays

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Real-World Learning: Experiential Learning Designed and Implemented by Students and Faculty

The office of Student Life at Beth Tfiloh High School has developed beyond cute programming and is now seen as an Educational Department, working alongside all Academic Departments to enhance, collaborate, deepen and apply values, ideas and skills being taught in various disciplines and give them a meeting place of relevance and application through experiential programming. This is a new and exciting way to envision teaching for the Real World and I am excited to share the fruit of the first three years of this experience with you in the hope of inspiring more schools to develop this approach as well.

By: Ms. Rachel Levitt-Klein from Beth Tfiloh Dahan

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Family History Project

Students research the genealogy of their families and present the stories of their ancestors within the historical and cultural context of the Jewish communities they came from.

By: Miss Chani Gotlieb from Manhattan High School for Girls

Grade(s): 9, 10, 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Ivrit, geneology

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Electing a School Dugmah

During the 2016 election season, every member of the student body was involved in a mock election. The election was completely student-run and developmentally appropriate for elementary school students. The fifth grade students took the reins on the campaign for a school dugmah(leader/example).

By: Mrs. Abbye Cornfield, Mrs. Mindy Civan from Perelman Jewish Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, History, Literature, Math, Civics

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Dreaming with Yaakov to Search for Meaning

Dreaming with Yaakov takes learners on a journey through bibliodrama, geography, social studies, journal writing, archaeology, and art history, visual art, Tanach and Rabbinics, in order to explore what the story of Yaakov has meant to readers over the ages. The ultimate goal of which is to prepare students to see themselves as participants in the Jewish tradition of meaning making.

By: Mr. Eran Rosenberg, Ms. Susan Couden from Columbus Jewish Day School

Grade(s): 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Elementary school, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Ivrit, Literature, Tanach, Midrash, Social Studies

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Comprehensive Digital Citizenship Curriculum

Technology today pervades every facet of life, from the refrigerator to the cell phone. In order, then, to prepare our students for well-integrated lives in the modern world, we must provide them with the psychosocial and emotional vocabulary and awareness to value, build and sustain healthy relationships; the technological skills to choose and use tools responsibly and effectively; and the Torah and Mussar (Jewish tools for self-development) skills to guide and shape their lives in accordance with their Jewish principles. We have developed an expanded, multi-year, cross-departmental curriculum based upon the most up-to-date research and most classical of Torah ethics, that reaches into every part of our educational process, teaching students directly and also via continuing education for staff and parents.

By: Mrs. Sarah Lipman, Mr. Robert Lipman, Rabbi Yisroel Pollock, Rabbi Shlomo Goldberg, Mrs. Robin Goldberg from Yeshiva Aharon Yaakov Ohr Eliyahu

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, History, Literature, Tanach, Jewish Ethics

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Passion Learning for Elementary Schools

Kindergarten through 5th grade students exercise already existing passions or new interests in multi-age/grade elective classes. Electives span such disciplines as sports, computer programming, engineering, robotics, culinary arts, fine arts, the environment, etc...

By: Ms. Allison Oakes from Sandra E. Lerner Jewish Community Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Literature, Math, Music, Science, Also, physical education, Jewish life, environment, strategic thinking

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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L’Dor V’Dor: Linking Youth to Elders from the Ground Up

L’Dor V’Dor provides deep one-on-one encounters between students K-6 from Columbus Jewish Day School and Jewish and non-Jewish elders around lifecycle and holiday events. Through carefully planned and facilitated exercises, simulations, and activities, the intergenerational wisdom of elders interacts with the joy of youth among participants aged 6-106, through the use of art, music, text study, guided interactions, prayer, and more.

By: Dr. Gina Freeman from Columbus Jewish Day School

Grade(s): K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Literature, Music, Tanach, Midrash

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Innovating Real-World Solutions in the Startup Incubator

The Adelson Educational Campus has constructed a 5000 square feet, state-of-the-art, invention and entrepreneurial workshop: the Startup Incubator.

In this space, teachers and mentors from university and industry work collaboratively with students to employ the design cycle in identifying and tackling real-world challenges. Prototyping a wide range of products from mobile apps and digital videos to IoT devices and drones, students ultimately develop not only solutions but lean startups through our relevant and progressive “Education for Life.”

By: Dr. Camille McCue, Mr. Leon Wilde, Mrs. Robin Pence, Dr. Yvonne Houy, Miss Rachel Ziter, Mr. Tobin Herringshaw, Mr. David Philippus from The Adelson Educational Campus

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Middle school, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Tanach, STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics)

Pedagogy: Constructivist, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Halacha and Technology: An Interdisciplinary, Hands-on Approach

Our senior elective, Merging Halachic Judaism with Modern Life, combines the study of and appreciation of Jewish law with the study of engineering and its principles. In the first half of the year, students learn Hilchot Shabbat and how these laws manifest in modern life. In the second half the year, students work in groups to identify and create a working prototype that merges both Halachic implications and modern technology to enhance the Shabbat experience. Students, thereby, learn to view the latest technological innovations through the prism of a religious perspective.

By: Mrs. Rifkie Silverman from The Frisch School

Grade(s): 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, Gemara, Halacha, Science

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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Forces Unit

In this unit, we learned how forces cause movement in both physical and social environments. The Ontario Science Curriculum talks about direct and indirect forces (e.g. gravity, magnetism, static electricity), but we took this concept to the next level by analyzing direct and indirect forces that have an ability to cause real world movement. To do so, we integrated our Science learning with Reading, Writing, Drama, Art, Jewish Studies, Technology, and Media Literacy.

By: Miss Melissa Master from Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School

Grade(s): 3, 4, 5, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Halacha, Literature, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: UBD - understanding by design

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Ancient Egypt

When beginning the study of parshat Shmot, students recall that by the end of sefer Breisheet the Hebrews dwelled in Egypt. We are reminded in the first few verses of Shmot that Jacob and his family made their way to Egypt and that Joseph already resided there. As the story unfolds, a rich understanding text can be gained from learning about ancient Egypt and seeing how its culture and environment impacted the Hebrews.

By: Ms. Lisa Richman from Perelman Jewish Day School - Stern Center

Grade(s): 5, 6, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Ivrit, Tanach, Social Studies/History - Ancient Civilization

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Environmental Education Across the Curriculum: Developing Connected Thinkers For Our Global Future

I teach my students that all of learning and all of life is connected. When we realize connections, we celebrate our
learning. The attached PDF titled Real-World Learning explains how my students learn about the environment and the real world around them by being exposed to connections inside and outside of the classroom and by being encouraged to question and to create ideas.

My presentation begins with the PDF titled Real-World Learning. Thank you!

By: Mrs. Jodi Deichman from Katz Hillel Day School of Boca Raton

Grade(s): 4, 5, 6, 7, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, History, Literature, Math, Science

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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8th Grade Integrated Project

The Integrated Project (IP) is a year-long study that spans the curriculum and represents the culmination of the students' K - 8th Grade studies at Mandel JDS. Students choose a theme or topic they want to study and integrate it into each subject within each of the disciplines throughout the year. Through the visual and dramatic arts, and often the performing arts and technology, students bring their fully integrated topics to life in an evening program.

By: Ms. Barbara Weiss, Ms. Leah Spector, Ms. Kim Favor from Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School

Grade(s): 7, 8, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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4th Grade PBL: Amusement Parks

Through an interdisciplinary integrated PBL on amusement parks, our 4th graders gain real world experience by

participating in a program to increase their understanding of economics and money systems and applied their knowledge

about supply and demand as well as profit and loss and related it to the project. In all the different subject areas students

experience and participate in different lessons all related to the amusement park. The project presents an opportunity to

build and enhance our students' cooperative learning skills.

By: Ms. Halle Dubin from Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School

Grade(s): 3, 4, 5, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Science

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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6th – 8th Grade PBL: Entrepreneurship Program

This project simulates a real world experience, in the context of an interdisciplinary approach, and helps students finance their 8th grade Israel trip. They are exposed to the basic of money management and investments and learn about different types of investment vehicles and create an investment portfolio. This entrepreneurial program builds the middle school students' critical thinking skills and advanced communication skills, while building creativity.

By: Ms. Kim Favor from Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Music, Science, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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3rd Grade Classroom Economy

In 3rd grade my students are active participants in our classroom economy. They earn, spend, & save money. They can distinguish between Needs and Wants. Students created hand made duct tape wallets for money and keep running records of their earnings. Throughout the year my students learn about real life experiences like applying for and managing jobs, the pride one feels when chosen to be the employee of the month, having overhead expenses, and at the same time, trying to save money. We have auctions, garage sales, and many opportunities for students to use their money. This year long initiative teaches my students financial literacy.

By: Mrs. Alysa Beer from Perelman Jewish Day School - Forman Center

Grade(s): 2, 3, 4, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Computer Science, Math

Pedagogy: 21st Century Skills

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Integrated Learning Lab for Junior High History, Language Arts, and Tech Tools Instruction

A first-in-its-class Integrated Learning Lab and Enrichment Option for 6th-8th grade boys and girls was configured for the 2016-17 school year, based upon the successes and lessons learned in earlier pilot studies in 2013-2016 (see, for example other submissions from this school). The goal of this ambitious program is to more fully involve students in the process of discovering, analyzing and engaging with new information, while giving them real-world experience in using the critical-thinking and technological tools imperative for rational, safe and productive interaction with today’s networked world.

By: Mr. Robert Lipman from YAYOE

Grade(s): 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Elementary school, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: Computer Science, History, Literature, Science, Technology Tools, Critical Thinking Skills, Data Analysis, Mindfulness, Awareness

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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