The Kohelet Prize Database

Subject: History

Israel Hebrew Curriculum

For millennia Jews did little to return home. After its creation, Israel became central to Jewish Schools; yet, most lack an Israel Curriculum. Striving to create pride in Medinat Yisrael and a sense of Jewish Identity in its accomplishments, our interdisciplinary grade 6-9 curriculum teaches the creation and evolution of the State in Hebrew including the songs of the Aliyot and the wars.

By: Dr. Shimshon Hamerman from JPPS Bialik

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Ivrit

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Flipped Learning, Language Immersion, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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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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Derech Eretz, Respect, and Consent: Middot in the Modern Age

This program is an interdisciplinary exploration of current events, Tanach, and literature to examine the meaning and application of derech eretz in a modern Jewish context.

By: Ariel Levenson, Batya Sharbat from Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Literature, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, Wholebrain Teaching, 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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Renewal of Rabbinic Ordination Project

Students, draw from talmudic, rabbinic literature and historical sources, to create a dialogue between two 16th century rabbinic figures. Their debate touches on the centrality of rabbinic ordination to the Jewish legal system. Is there a possibility of its restoration and what meaningful ramifications can its return have in the modern day world.

By: David Goldfischer from The Frisch School

Grade(s): 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Gemara, Halacha, History, Mishnah, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa

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

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The Story of Our People: From One Generation to the Next

A keynote project in which students create professional documentaries based on the "Survivor Circles" experience & showcased in a beautiful community-wide Film Festival as the hallmark of a newly written literacy-based, student-centered curriculum for Modern Jewish History that integrates academic skills with primary sources.

By: Anna Bolman from Fuchs Mizrachi School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Social Studies

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

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The Young Acharonim Initiative

Students use centuries old traditional Talmudic methods to build critical thinking skills. This is done by giving the students the ability to become the teachers by planning and researching their own lessons, presenting them to the class, and allowing others to critique, and perfect their logic.
This is The Young Acharonim Initiative.

By: Rabbi Mendel Kugel from Arevim Schoolhouse

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

Subject(s) of entry: Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Mishnah, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Tanach, Tefila

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, Flipped Learning, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, Montessorri, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, Socratic Method, UBD - understanding by design

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Earth Science

Working backwards from the physical and topographical design of Israel, the connection between Israel, Earth Science and Halacha, and the consideration of our (Fuchs Mizrachi Lower School’s) physical location in the world; this unit was designed to ask and answer six essential questions that take the students on a journey across many disciplines.

By: Sima Maryles, Jessica Segen and Verity Shaft from The Fuchs Mizrachi School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Engineering, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Math, Mishnah, Science, Social Studies, Technology

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, IBL - inquiry based learning, Language Immersion, PBL - project based learning, Socratic Method, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Virtual Jerusalem Mayoral Elections

The Virtual Jerusalem Mayoral Elections allowed 12th-grade students to explore the diverse, real-world needs facing Jerusalem residents and the multicultural nature of the city, through researching different candidates and issues, creating campaigns and taking a leadership role in their own learning, running mock elections for a different grade.

By: Sarah Gordon from Ma'ayanot Yeshiva High School for Girls

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Ivrit, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social Studies

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

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Art as a Lens to the Holocaust and Genocide: The Legacy Project

Middle schoolers become researchers, artists, historians, and storytellers, exploring memorials and monuments through an integrated year-long study in Judaism, Fine Arts, and Humanities. This project-focused learning fosters deep understanding and engagement about the Holocaust on a personal level as well as within a deeper global context.

By: Colleen Simon, Rhiannon Van Bindsbergen from Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Hartford

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Literature, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies

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

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Connecting the Unconnected

“Connecting the Unconnected” is a collaborative learning experience that brings together sixth through eighth grade students at six Jewish day schools in small Jewish communities to connect Jewish history and values with social justice, civil rights, and American and Israeli heritage through classroom learning and real-world experiences.

By: Denise Bennett, Rabbi Amanda Brodie, Liora Chessin, Carolyn Hawks, David Prevositi, Matthew Russ from Friedel Jewish Academy, Ezra Academy, N.E. Miles Jewish Day School, B'nai Shalom Day School, Hillel Community Day School, The Lippman School

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

Subject(s) of entry: English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Literature, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social Studies, Technology

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, Flipped Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, 21st Century Skills

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“Kids around the world do the same things in different ways.” Kindergarten students create The Museum of the Universal Languages of Childhood

The Kindergarten theme of community was woven into all aspects of our curriculum and was explored through the lens of global competency. Our multidisciplinary curricular approach to learning culminated in the creation of The Museum of the Universal Languages of Childhood that represented the languages of celebrations, games, and fine arts.

By: Xani Pollakoff, Lisa Davis from Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School, Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School

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

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

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

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Things that Go Bump in the Night

Students contrast Mystical Judaism with Rational Judaism. Topics include: Sorcery, Witches, Amulets, Evil Eye, Chamsa, Lilith, Star of David, Mezuzah, Golem, Demon, Incubus, and Dybbuk. Students integrate Jewish Studies with Art, by creating art projects that are message-driven by the associated Jewish Studies topics.

By: Cheryl Myrbo, Rabbi Pamela Gottfried, Moshe Sokol from The Weber School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Gemara, Halacha, History, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Tanach

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Experiential Education, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning

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What Would George Washington Do?

This lesson plan introduces George Washington and his philosophy of government. We investigate and discuss how he dealt with issues during his first presidency and how political parties developed.

By: Whitney Kennon from Margolin Hebrew Academy

Grade(s): 8, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: History

Pedagogy: Design-Thinking Model

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Witness Theater: An Innovative Approach to Holocaust Education

Witness Theater brings together Holocaust survivors and students for a year of telling and listening, creativity, collaboration and self growth. Survivors share real-life experiences and real-world lessons within a therapeutic theater process focused on intense learning about history and humanity, and the development of critical life skills.

By: Sally Shatzkes from Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School

Grade(s): 9, High school

Subject(s) of entry: History

Pedagogy: Experiential Education

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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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LaHaV Learning

LaHaV Learning provides content, technology, and training to transform Jewish learning and teaching in schools and communities throughout the world. LaHaV was founded to transform students from spectators to participants and to enable worldwide educational collaboration across disciplines, because Jewish ideas and values matter now more than ever.

By: Dr. Noam Weissman, Rabbi David Stein from Shalhevet High School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Mishnah, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Tanach, Technology

Pedagogy: Hevruta Learning, Socratic Method, Soulful Education, UBD - understanding by design

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Immigration Perspectives

Students studied the push and pull factors of immigration. They examined how immigration trends affected immigration laws and policies and analyzed the human experience of immigrants. In this study, students interviewed immigrants, read and watched documentaries, created immigrant character profiles and write historical journals.

By: Tzivie Klein, Frady Halpern from Tiferes Bnos

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, literature

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

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Debating the Issues – in Hebrew!

At Oakland Hebrew Day School, the middle school Hebrew and Humanities teachers co-planned and co-taught a unit that combined constructing evidence-based arguments using current events, and crafting arguments, counterarguments, and rebuttals in Hebrew in preparation for a debate.

By: Joanne Davi, Efrat Simhi-Aloni from Oakland Hebrew Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Ivrit, Social Studies

Pedagogy: Language Immersion, UBD - understanding by design

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A Children’s Guide to Statuary Hall

This Children’s Guide was written by the third graders of Milton as a gift for the Capitol Building to use with young visitors - written by children for children. Throughout this project, students developed research, questioning, critical thinking, analysis, and written communication skills, and they learned the importance of learning from experts.

By: Jessica Friedman, Mindy Hirsch, Melissa Rickabaugh from Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School of the Nation's Capital

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Social Studies

Pedagogy: Design-Thinking Model, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning

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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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Beis Medrish- Holiday Learning

A multi-level class where students are guided through differentiated material on 1) the historical background 2) the laws and customs and 3) the deeper message of the holidays. Teachers use blended learning methods, small groups, and one on one learning but mainly independent study strategies to help students connect more deeply to the holidays.

By: Ilana Bassman from Bader Hillel High School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Halacha, History, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Hevruta Learning

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School’s Cancelled: A Day of Non-Traditional Learning

How do you promote real world skills in a traditional school atmosphere? During Expo Days at YDLV, classes are cancelled and students embark on a themed journey of learning and inspiration, giving them the opportunity to practice non-traditional skills with a variety of exercises and challenges built for real world learning.

By: Brittney Friedman from Yeshiva Day School of Las Vegas

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

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

Pedagogy: 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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EVERlab 2.0: a next generation Beit Midrash

EVERlab is a learning environment dedicated to the integration of ideas and concepts from Jewish studies and “secular” academics. It combines elements of a conventional maker-space, including iteration, prototyping and design-thinking with the ethos of a Beit Midrash: the critical/open exchange of ideas and a collaborative search for deeper truth.

By: Robin Gluck, Evan Wolkenstein from Jewish Community High School of the Bay

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tanach

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Design-Thinking Model, Hevruta Learning, Social and Emotional Learning, 21st Century Skills

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Scheduling Circus

Creating a school schedule is difficult. Furthermore, creating a schedule that works for 14 multi-age, multi-level, individual students with very different academic and social-emotional needs, seems nearly impossible. It was through a journey of taking great risks and reflecting on failures that brought our classroom the schedule(s) we all needed.

By: Amy Morford from Arevim Schoolhouse

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, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Math, Mishnah, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Physical Education/Health, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Tefila, literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Experiential Education, IBL - inquiry based learning, Montessorri, Social and Emotional Learning, Wholebrain Teaching, 21st Century Skills

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Living Israeli History: Underground Bullet Factory

Putting themselves in the shoes of teenagers building a new life in the land (and budding State) of Israel, students become historians. Partnership and perseverance are needed as students work together to overcome challenges of immigrants and pioneers in the most perilous of predicaments - living and working in an underground bullet factory!

By: Rabbi Emily Meyer from Seattle Jewish Community School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Social Studies

Pedagogy: Experiential Education, PBL - project based learning, 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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Students Making Connections: Oral Histories

We believe outreach to the community makes us stronger; thus, we create projects in which students move outside the classroom to interview community members and write reflections detailing how this experience affected them.

By: Dr. Whitney Kennon, Mrs. Rhonda Martin, Mrs. Ashley Brown from Margolin Hebrew Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Social Studies

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

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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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“Change the world. It just takes cents”TM

"Change the world. It just takes cents"TM is a student-led, teacher-mentored, PBL, service-learning, experiential education, Tikkun Olam, multidisciplinary process, where lessons evolve organically, and students are the creators of their learning blueprint, rather than being enslaved to textbooks. Students emerge empowered advocates and leaders.

By: Sara Caine Kornfeld from Denver Jewish Day School (Herzl/RMHA)

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

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

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Experiential Education, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, 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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Teva Tuesday

Each week our students in our 4-5th grades spend an afternoon outdoors to learn, become aware of and appreciate the vital role the earth plays in our existence. Students are encouraged to gain a deep, profound respect for the environment, to become Shomer Adamah (Guardians of the Land) through study of Jewish texts that promote these ideas.

By: Marcy Thomaswick, Gail Raucher, Rebecca Tishkoff, Melanie Waynik from Ezra Academy

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

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

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Constructivist, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, Hevruta Learning, Montessorri, Social and Emotional Learning, Soulful Education, Wholebrain Teaching, 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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The Modern Jewish Woman

Students study texts as they learn about the shifts in the cultural and religious roles of women. This is taught concurrently in both Judaic studies (Rabbinic Literature) and Modern Jewish History classes. Course culminates with students choosing elderly women of the community to interview and then represent in a community-wide celebratory exhibit.

By: Elie Ganz, Yehudis Benhamou from Scheck Hillel Community School, YULA Girls

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Gemara, Halacha, History, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Experiential Education, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning

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Learning for a Cause

Learning for a Cause is an ongoing project and the brainchild of educator Michael Ernest Sweet. The project seeks to engage students in learning and writing about real-world issues beyond the classroom walls, and then publish that writing in real books alongside celebrity guest writers. Students make REAL books about REAL issues.

By: Michael Sweet from Solomon Schechter School of Manhattan

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

Subject(s) of entry: English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Social Studies, literature

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, Socratic Method

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Canada 150 School-Wide Inquiry Project

The Hamilton Hebrew Academy set out to provide our students with an outstanding learning experience in celebration of Canada 150. Every student conducted an inquiry project, which facilitated the development of their critical and creative thinking skills. The event culminated in a community wide learning showcase at a Canadian historical site.

By: Goldie Weiser, Rebecca Shapiro, Ali Ostrowski, Bob Childs, Ryan Kraftcheck, James Potter, Gila Mesusany, Heather Wilson from Hamilton Hebrew Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Social Studies

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

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Inspiring All Learners through Multi-Age Classrooms

Through our new multi-age format, the Schechter faculty differentiates and optimizes student learning. This progressive model reaches diverse learners within a single classroom environment and is transforming student engagement, individualized instruction, social outlets, improved self-esteem, and richly integrated curriculum.

By: Merissa Spector, Limor Shefer, Kate Poltorak, Ziva Kovner, Susan Kurtis, Gavi Lehrer, Anita Cohen from Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Hartford

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

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

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

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The Flexible Mindset

The Flexible Mindset, used in a kindergarten classroom, is a combination of growth mindset, flexible seating, and integrated projects. This combination makes for a learning environment that is ever changing to meet the needs of each student in the classroom community and bring learning to life.

By: Emily Hayes, Hinda Lind, Chelsea Avchen from The Sandra E. Lerner Jewish Community 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, Engineering, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Foreign Language, History, Ivrit, Music, Physical Education/Health, Science, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies, Technology, Tefila

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Design-Thinking Model, Social and Emotional Learning, 21st Century Skills

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DASH Weeks

DASH is a comprehensive school wide study of a topic that is carried out in every classroom, Judaic and secular, as well as in the arts. It is cross grade, cross curricular and integrated. The school has now done two DASH units, one last spring and one in November 2017. This fall's topic, "Water: Source of Life" was engaging and exciting.

By: Gerri Chizeck, Debbie Kanter, Sarah Greenberg, Sam Spinrad, Kim Berry from Levey Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Foreign Language, History, Ivrit, Math, Music, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Science, Social Studies, literature

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

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What do Greece and Arizona Have in Common? Empowerment, Life Skills, and Meaningful Research

Students planned a trip to Greece to learn about literature, ancient history, and Jewish history, researching content, budgeting, fundraising, and halakhot. Success was met with disappointment when the trip was canceled for terrorism. Students regrouped, changing the destination to Arizona to research nature, American history, and the arts.

By: Rachel Harari from Magen David Yeshivah High School

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

Subject(s) of entry: English/ Writing/ Language Arts, Halacha, History, literature

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

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21st Century Perspectives on the Holocaust

Through film, poetry, stories, Holocaust writings & Responsa, survivor testimony, dialogues with professors and University students, and presentations from Canadian and European dignitaries, this course engages students in a deep experiential analysis of the Shoah.

By: Effie Kleinberg from Bnei Akiva Schools

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Experiential Education, PBL - project based learning

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My Wonder Woman

Using a combination of collaborative work, research, interview skills, & analysis, students determine what makes a woman a worthy role model. Critical & creative thinking skills are evident throughout the process and culminates in a persuasive essay through which each student nominates her Wonder Woman. All discussions & writings were done in Ivrit

By: Tammy Masar from Magen David Yeshivah

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

Subject(s) of entry: Foreign Language, History, Ivrit, Philosophy/ Values/ Ethics/ Hashkafa, Social and Emotional Learning, Tanach, literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, Design-Thinking Model, Experiential Education, Hevruta Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning, Language Immersion, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning

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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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Understanding Media Bias

Students will learn how to navigate the news to discern the credibility of a source by investigating what media bias is with their peers, “acting as the journalist” within the classroom, and reflecting on their experiences. Their conclusions will then be applied to their understanding of how to interpret the news in the real-world.

By: Holly Seidenfeld from Katz Yeshiva High School of South Florida

Grade(s): High school

Subject(s) of entry: History, Social Studies

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Experiential Education, UBD - understanding by design, 21st Century Skills

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Student Feedback

Students reflected on their past year of study in the Advanced Placement Human Geography course. The Student Feedback assignment was simple enough, but the results surpassed my expectations. The insight & the comprehensive explanation of experiences, successes, and failures that the students shared will prepare incoming freshman for years to come.

By: David Ohring from Katz Yeshiva High School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Social Studies, Technology

Pedagogy: Experiential Education

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Kol Isha: Giving Voice to Jewish American Women

Kol Isha: Giving Voice to Jewish American Women is a primary document based inquiry project for advanced level American history students that encourages analytical interpretation of historical documents in tandem with creative writing and personal reflection.

By: Ariel Levenson from Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: English/ Writing/ Language Arts, History, Social and Emotional Learning, Social Studies

Pedagogy: Constructivist, Design-Thinking Model, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, Social and Emotional Learning, UBD - understanding by design

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Maimonides Better Together

Maimonides Better Together students & seniors share & grow together; students actualize their study & seniors share their life experiences.

We integrate timely and relevant Jewish Respect for elderly, Torah values in classroom lessons, before meeting & hands-on activities with seniors.

By: Rabbi Yossi Rubin from Maimonides Hebrew Day School

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

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

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning

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The Cyber Path to Critical and Creative Thinking

This is a revolutionary approach which incorporates innovative technology to engage students in using higher order thinking in Jewish texts. Using the platform of Bloom’s Revised Taxonomy, students are guided to create their own content as a means of presenting their understanding of the texts. This approach is also being used by secular studies teachers in our school.

By: Rabbi Yehuda Schwartzberg from Stars of Israel 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: Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Mishnah, Tanach

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

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Water: An examination

Using the bracha Mashiv HaRuach and Parshat Noach, this unit investigates water on a deep level. It includes many types of instruction so that all students can access the learning.

By: Mrs. Anna Sanders, Ms. Bayla Clement from Ben Porat Yosef

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

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

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

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The Talent Center Handbook & Extra Challenge Project Kit

The Talent Center Handbook shows how to develop creative young Jewish leaders with an 18 word curriculum in just 30 Minutes a Week. Emek’s game-changing Extra Challenge Projects connect holistic Torah learning, technology, and Jewish design thinking through child-led community service passion projects.

By: Mrs. Rae Shagalov from Emek Hebrew Academy Teichman Family Torah Center

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

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

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

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TAP INTO IT!

This was an elective course, one option in the Enrichment Cluster Program at SAR, in which students choose an area that they are drawn towards, and explore that area with like-interested students and teachers. Each area begins with a probing question that is explored over the semester.

By: Mrs. Eva Broder, Mrs. Talia Litwin from SAR Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Music

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning

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MULTI-LEVELED DIFFERENTIATION

This is a revolutionary system that uses technology to differentiate learning based on multiple cognitive learning factors that affect the learning process. Each student is catered to according his or her unique circumstances and abilities.

By: Rabbi Yehuda Schwartzberg from Stars of Israel 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: Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Mishnah, Science, Tanach

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

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Ma’ayan Program: Differentiated Learning

Ma’ayan is a program we designed as a vehicle to ensure that all students, regardless of academic or other abilities and/or needs, participate in the school’s Hebrew and Judaics program, at a level that is appropriate for them. It is also designed to ensure that students who want to come to our school and have not been studying Hebrew and/or Judaics are not deterred from attending our school. Finally, it is a proven tool through which we provide Hebrew classes at a high enough/challenging level for Israeli students (or those who come to our school who are fluent in the language).

By: Ms. Gussie Singer, Ms. Etti Berkman from Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Ivrit, Literature, Tanach

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, UBD - understanding by design

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Lower Elementary Country Project

Our Lower Elementary Country Project was the culminating project at the end of our spring semester of the 2015-16 school year. First, second and third graders completed this project in mixed-age groups, at the research and writing level that was developmentally appropriate for them. The students learned about the Fundamental Needs of Humans and how those needs differ depending in which country a person lives in. Each student completed a written report on one of five countries, prepared a creative visual aid on a Fundamental Need of his or her choice and participated in a group presentation to their classmates and parents on everything they had learned about the country they had studied.

This research project, including the activities that my students completed, is an example of a unit of study that could be applied to any elementary classroom, traditional or Montessori. Being mindful of your students’ strengths and weaknesses and selecting appropriate materials for their use will help them succeed and to take pride in their work. At the end of the day, that is the goal of the teacher; encourage the child to feel proud of the accomplishments that he or she makes during the time they are in your classroom.

The beauty of teaching in a mixed aged Montessori classroom comes with being able to simultaneously teach a group of students across three grade levels, but at a curriculum level that is age and developmentally appropriate for the students. In our classroom, we have first graders who read at a second or third grade level and it is wonderful to be able to offer them the writing assignments that are being offered to their older classmates. Additionally, we also have weaker second and third grade students, who feel very comfortable being paired with a first grade classmate to work on an assignment that might be the appropriate level for them, despite being something that was assigned to someone a full grade lower than they are. In order to best need the needs of all of my students, and to set them up for success, I am always differentiating our general studies curriculum and adapting our assignments appropriately.

By: Mrs. Alexandra Cooper from Netivot The Montessori Yeshiva

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Geography, Social Studies

Pedagogy: Montessorri

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Jewish For Life: Dual Track Judaic Curriculum

Our Moreshet Yisrael track uses a thematic approach to teach traditional and modern sources in English whereas our Moreshet Torani track adheres to text-based learning in Hebrew. Regardless of track, when oral or midrashic traditions are introduced, they are taught with a clear understanding that even oral traditions are anchored to the text. There is a recognition among our teachers that many of the skills students develop in the serious pursuit of Judaic Studies (such as critical thinking, deductive reasoning, close reading of texts) can and will be employed in General Studies subjects such as language arts, science, and social studies.

By: Rabbi Reuven Travis from Atlanta Jewish Academy

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

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

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning, 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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Focus on Growth – Differentiation Through Student Goal Setting

Our committee of educators designed and implemented a Focus on Growth initiative for our kindergarten through fifth grade students. This initiative encourages students and teachers to work together to set differentiated personal goals, monitor progress, and celebrate achievement in a variety of areas.

By: Ms. Lara Sparks, Mrs. Deb Barwick, Mrs. Jodie, Applebaum, Ms. Jordana Weinberg, Mrs. Carla Muller, Mr. Patrick Sawyer, Mr. Eric Einstein from Denver Jewish Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Music, Science, Tanach, Specials, Social/Emotional, All Curricular areas

Pedagogy: 21st Century Skills

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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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English Language Learning in a Jewish Elementary School

I am applying for the Kohelet Prize for Differentiated Instruction on behalf of a team of teachers that has developed an individualized, highly differentiated English Language Learning program for students who speak English as their second (or third) language. Our program is designed to meet the needs of each specific student and is flexible enough to accommodate children of all elementary ages and abilities.

By: Dr. Kersten Biehn from Sandra E. Lerner Jewish Community Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Science, Overall Judaic Studies and all other subjects are affected

Pedagogy: UBD - understanding by design, Constructivist

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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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Yeshivat Noam: Connecting the Past to the Present and Making it Relevant to Middle School Students Using the Arts and Technology

Our unit of study explores the Immigrant Experience of 1880-1924 and the Holocaust to guide students to connect to the past which will broaden the students' understanding of his/her role in the present and his/her place in the future. Through the lens of individuals (Holocaust Survivors and New-Immigrants), students will be able to connect, appreciate, and apply key moments in history.

By: Rabbi Jeremy Hellman, Mrs. Rebecca Lopkin from Yeshivat Noam

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Literature, Theater, Drama

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

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Yad Hayotzer: An Interdisciplinary, Experiential Approach to Teaching the Prophets

Jeremiah Chapters 18-19 explore the interplay between God and His people as the fashioner of Jewish destiny through the agency of a potter. Jeremiah’s symbolic action comes to life as each student experiences "becoming" the potter, realizing the challenges of imprinting one’s vision on another. This project enhances the tefilla experience for our students as they explore the Yom Kippur piyyut - KaChomer BeYad HaYotzer, Like Clay in the Hands of the Potter - and helps shape their understanding of the roles of fate and free-will, both in the history of the Jewish people and in their own lives.

By: Rabbi Tzvi Pittinsky, Mrs. Rachel Besser, Mrs. Racheli Weiss-Luftglass, Mrs. Ahuva Winslow from The Frisch School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Music, Tanach

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

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TED Talks- overcoming adversity

After reading novels including Out of the Dust, The Miracle Worker, The Outsiders and A Long Walk to Water, students, as a final project, had to write and present their own TED Talk related to overcoming adversity. It could be personal or about a person that they knew. They watched several TED Talks, we studied the format, and instead of writing an essay, my students were required to write a speech using a hook, an anecdote to rig the reader in, a strong introduction, a body paragraph and statistics to support the points made, and a final concluding paragraph with a powerful clincher or message. They were also required to prepare visuals as well. (As a side note, those who felt uncomfortable exposing information, could choose a more neutral topic related to NGO's and how they are helping people through out the third world in particular.)We then invited parents to the band room, set up the room to seem like a TED conference, and the students presented their speeches. It brought many parents to tears, and was a powerful lesson on human strength and endurance even during difficult times.

By: Ms. Sara Elikan from Berman Hebrew Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Tanach

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

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Project Based Learning in 7-8 Social Studies at Hillel Day School

In the 7-8 Division, the eighth grade students participated in a PBL experience where the students created the ideal civilization based upon their own creativity, and ideas from our study of Mesopotamia, ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, Alexander the Great, and ancient Rome. In addition, the eighth grade students participated in a PBL experience that compared similarities of world religions.

By: Mr. Joshua Cutler from Hillel Day School

Grade(s): 7, 8, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: History

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning

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Olivia’s Creative Compilations – Jewish Texts Come to Life!

Whether it is marrying off two characters from "Once Upon a Time" in an Orthodox Jewish ceremony, designing ad campaigns around Nezirut or creating Ten Plagues theme parks using Minecraft, my students have done it all. My mandate as a teacher is to enable students to access content in a rich, creative way that showcases their unique, creative thinking and knowledge on the topics.

By: Mrs. Olivia Friedman from Ida Crown Jewish Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Tanach

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

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My Family Story

“My Family Story” was a collaborative unit between my 8th grade history students at Beth Tfiloh, their art classes, the Jewish Museum of Maryland and the Diaspora Museum (Beit Hatfusot) in Tel Aviv. As the opening unit of my ancient history course, students delved deeply into their personal histories and identities, conducted genealogy research, interviewed family members, researched immigration stories, and created family trees; they then chose one aspect of their family history to depict artistically and worked with the guidance of their art teachers to create visual representations of their unique family stories. The “My Family Story” unit culminated in an evening event that began with a multi-generational prayer service at one of Baltimore’s oldest synagogues and featured an art exhibition at the adjacent Jewish Museum of Maryland, where the students showcased their work to siblings, parents, grandparents and community members.

By: Ms. Lizabeth Shrier from Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Literature, Jewish Identity

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning

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My Hero Next Door – Documenting and Preserving The Heroic Life Journeys of Senior Citizens in Virtual Reality

Grade 9 English students at TanenbaumCHAT will create immersive reality / 3D documentaries on the heroic lives of Jewish senior citizens in their community.
Students will also design an app that will serve as an archive, an online film festival and a digital portfolio, featuring Jewish elderly people through the lens of the hero's journey story framework.
The unit, lesson plans and the immersive reality documentary app will be offered to Jewish high schools around the world to create their own films on Jewish seniors, and upload them on the app.
Our ultimate outcome is for the heroic journey of 200,000 Jewish seniors to be archived and shown online in our communities.

By: Mr. Jamie Cohen from TanenbaumCHAT

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature

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

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Making Space Holy

Fourth Grade students were challenged to transform the school's maker space into a full-scale Mishkan. Students self-organized to design and build the various components of the Mishkan using limited materials, tools, and resources. These constraints intentionally mimicked the design challenges faced by the Israelites.

By: Mr. Michael Hyde, Mrs. Amy Katz from Portland Jewish Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Mishnah, Tanach, Engineering, Engineering Design

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

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Life Under Shlomo: The Golden Years

Using information gleaned from I Kings 3-8, students designed tourism promotional websites about King Solomon's kingdom. Content areas covered needed to include: his administration and government, cultural sites, testimonials & reviews and a gift shop.

By: Mrs. Olivia Friedman from Ida Crown Jewish Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Tanach

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

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Jewish History curriculum from the United Monarchy to the Talmud

This curriculum introduces students to an academic approach to Jewish history with the intention of enriching their study of traditional Jewish texts like the Tanakh and Talmud by offering context and background to these sources. Additionally, this curriculum will expose students to academic concepts and methods regarding Jewish studies that often come up in university courses. If done in a thoughtful way, this can blunt any potential surprises or discomfort students may have when these ideas come up on a secular campus.

By: Mr. Eitan Kastner from Frisch School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History

Pedagogy:

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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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Intergenerational Oral History Project

Gann 11th graders studied 20th century U.S. history through the stories of Jewish elders. They learned skills in oral history, contextualized the elders' stories in the grander scheme of U.S. history, and developed a final project that applied their learning to their own lives.

By: Ms. Lily Rabinoff-Goldman, Mr. Yoni Kadden from Gann Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Jewish Studies

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

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Innovations Across the Nations

In conjunction with science and social studies, students learn about real-world problems that affect humankind on a global scale. Students are challenged to think critically and creatively as they plan and engineer products that address the real world problems.

By: Mrs. Lori Rutcofsky from Rockland Jewish Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Math, Science, Engineering

Pedagogy: 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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Developing Critical Thinking in a High School Statistics Class

Our submission, “Developing Critical Thinking in a High School Statistics Class,” aims to teach students the necessary tools and help them develop the perspective to critically analyze and evaluate numerical and statistical information. Teaching critical reading and critical thinking and creating opportunities for students to practice and develop these skills are key components of the unit. There are many possibilities for interdisciplinary integration and multi-level adaptations.

By: Ms. Alicia Sussman, Dr. Lea Keil Garson from Kohelet Yeshiva High 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: History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Science

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 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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American Values in American Texts

Students learned the concept of a value and discussed different American values that exist in society. In groups they extracted various values from certain American texts (such as "The Gettysburg Address") and then connected the values they discerned from the text to values they could infer in a short piece of American fiction. The students had to then devise a lesson plan to teach the short piece of fiction and the value to a high school class. My students presented their work to the class and also wrote individual reflective papers about the entire learning experience.

By: Ms. Lauren Burstein from Torah Academy of Bergen County

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature

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

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20th Century Multi-genre Research Paper

While discovering the events from 1920s-1940s, students focused on the lens of a particular individual that may have lived during the time period and experienced the events that occurred. Each student was asked to reflect on social, political, and economic events from the lens/perspective of the assigned individual to synthesize the information learned.

By: Mrs. Rachel Mann, Mrs. Jane Steinman from Carmel Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design

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Judaic Studies Electives Program

Initiative to revamp, reinvigorate, and reimagine the Judaic Studies Curriculum at Ulpanat Orot by empowering the students to have diverse and personalized choices in their course selections. Ivrit and Torah (Chumash) are mandatory courses throughout HS, but the other 3 JS periods were opened up with 3-4 choices per period.

By: Rabbi Effie Kleinberg, Mrs. Sara Munk from Bnei Akiva Schools

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

Subject(s) of entry: Gemara, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Mishnah, Tanach

Pedagogy: Blended 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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In Defense of Learning Lishmah

Jewish educators often approach their subjects with the same modalities and grading system that are common in General Studies classes. Rather than continue with this approach, Shalhevet attempted to design two Judaic courses that would devalue letter grades and promote more authentic and deeper student learning. We were willing to take a calculated risk and we failed. While our initial pilot missed the mark, the effort has promoted some benefits and has jumpstarted further innovation in our approach to Judaic instruction.

By: Mr. Jason Feld, Mr. Noam Weissman from Shalhevet High School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Halacha, History, Literature, Mishnah, Music, Tanach, Jewish Philosophy, Israel Education

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, 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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Turning Dreams into Reality

In honour of our school's 18th anniversary and its initial visionaries, we launched a school-wide initiative looking at how to turn dreams into reality. Each grade integrated this theme with a core curricular unit. A detailed description of each grade's project as well as work samples are included with this submission.

By: Ms. Ellen Kelner from Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School

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

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

Pedagogy: Constructivist, IBL - inquiry based learning, PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design

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The Jewish Primary Day School of the Nation’s Capital’s (JPDS-NC) Election Project 2016: Kid’s Voices Count

The Jewish Primary Day School of the Nation’s Capital’s (JPDS-NC) Election Project 2016: Kid’s Voices Count was an interdisciplinary, school-wide project that required the participation of every student and teacher at JPDS-NC. Students from Pre-Kindergarten through Sixth Grade delved into a variety of election issues, met with experts to deepen their understanding, met with and listened to other students in area schools to broaden their perspectives, and reflected on Jewish teachings that relate to the issues in the election. Each grade focused on a different election-related issue connected to their core curriculum, culminating in a Voter’s Guide distributed throughout our community and beyond.

By: Ms. Mindy Hirsch, Ms. Melissa Rickabaugh, Ms. Devora Yeganeh, Ms. Kelly McAllister, Ms. Vanessa Prell, Ms. Hanina Goldstein from Jewish Primary Day School of the Nation's Capital

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Literature, Tanach, Current Events, Social Studies, Jewish Text

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

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Campaign for a Cause

Working in collaborative teams, the 8th graders run a grade-wide campaign to encourage their peers to vote for their "candidate" (AKA a charitable organization) as the class cause. Through interviews, web-based research and site visits, students develop understandings about their organization in order to create a complete marketing strategy and compose persuasive speeches. Starting with class primaries, continuing with town halls, and eventually by conducting a grade-wide convention, students develop their verbal, written, and graphic communication skills, all while raising awareness about important issues such as homelessness or the refugee crisis.

By: Mrs. Lauren Sterling from Hillel Day School

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

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

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

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Child Victim Project

Each year our Grade 6 students partake in a project that connects them to the lives of Jewish children who perished in the Holocaust.

These innocent victims who perished are honored and remembered by our students who retell their stories. Our students feel connected to their Jewish heritage and have a deeper and more meaningful understanding of the lives of those who lived before them.

By: Ms. Amy Taylor from Jewish Peoples and Peretz Schools (JPPS-BIALIK)

Grade(s): 6, Middle school

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

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning

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Bamidbar Values Letter

In what may have been the most rewarding experience of my career, students chose three values learned from Sefer Bamidbar and wrote letters of gratitude to their parents for already helping them learn these values throughout their lives. Simultaneously, parents wrote value letters to their daughters. Parents and daughters exchanged letters on the same day in what ended up being a meaningful and emotional expression of what we hold dearest.

By: Mrs. Shira Greenspan from Ramaz Upper School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Ivrit, Literature, Mishnah, Tanach

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

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Whole Brain Teaching

Whole Brain teaching is an approach that is designed to teach the way the brain is really created to learn while maximizing student involvement. It is a flexible method that can be adapted by any teacher to their own teaching methods.

By: Mrs. Chaya Berelowitz from Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh

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

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

Pedagogy: Whole Brain Teaching

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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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Rookies Approach

Ivrit, differentiated instruction, centers, multisensory learning, responsive classroom

By: Mrs. Rookie Badouch from Torah Academy of Greater Philadelphia

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

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

Pedagogy: 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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Integrated Girls High School Program

Ashira is an integrated girls' high school program providing small classes with individualized learning to girls whose primary deficiency is in the academic domain. Ashira is housed in a mainstream high school, enabling maximum socialization which is so crucial during the high school years.

By: Mrs. Bracha Cohen, Ms. Sarah Levy from Ateres Bais Yaakov

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

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

Pedagogy:

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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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First Grade Flexible Seating Environment

As education shifts to chromebooks, cooperative learning, small group instruction, and personalized learning, so must the classroom furnishing and arrangement. With flexible seating, and no assigned seats, my students are free to sit, stand or lay on the floor as they learn. I have observed increased motivation and engagement as well as a higher rate of student interaction since implementing flexible seating. My first graders are doing their best work ever!

By: Ms. Cheryl Cooper from Scheck Hillel Community School

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

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

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, 21st Century Skills

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Co-teaching program

Looking at a classroom, even when empty, tells a lot about the learning environment. Are students facing the same direction to be receivers of information or are there centers and desk-clusters, meeting areas and reading books created to support students in moving through routines, working together, and supporting more independent learning. This later description is the innovative and engaging classroom that is Tovi Admon’s.

By: Mrs. Tova Admon from Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh

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

Subject(s) of entry: Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Math, Science, Tanach, Holidays, Tefila

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, Montessorri, Blended Learning, 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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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 N.E. Miles Jewish Day School Social Justice and Leadership Initiative

The N.E. Miles Jewish Day School social justice and leadership initiative is guided by the core beliefs and values on which our school is based. To that end, we provide real-life experiences for the students to participate actively in three of the guiding Jewish values- Menschlichkeit, Tikkun Olam, and Torah Study.

By: Ms. Liora Chessin, Mrs. Lynn Raviv from N.E. Miles Jewish Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Tanach

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

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The Living Haggadah: From Slavery to Freedom

The grade 5 students study the Exodus narrative through the lens of the Big Idea topic: “Who goes out from slavery to freedom? One who understands the meaning of a miracle and responds to its call.” This unit involves study in many disciplines, including Chumash (Torah) study, Hebrew language, Visual Arts, Music, Dance, Language Arts, and Social Sciences. Learning in all disciplines contributes to the final project, the Dramatized Haggadah performance, which is written and performed by the students.

By: Marissa Unruh, Dr. Isaac Hollander, Shachar Leven, Judith Leitner, Betty Lazebnik from The Toronto Heschel School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Ivrit, Literature, Music, Tanach, Dance, Dance/Movement

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design

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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 History of Light

A 4-6 week long interdisciplinary unit, which ties together research and presentation skills, Chanukah, Israel, New Jersey History, the science of electricity, and the use of light as a medium in art.

By: Mrs. Bonnie Drazen, Rabbi Yossi Berg, Mrs. Batsheva Blum, Mr. Craig Brimmer, Ms. Laura Carroll, Mrs. Lexi DiFiglia, Mrs. Gittel Goldberg, Rabbi Avi Herzog, Mrs. Naava Hess, Mr. Sean Lang, Rabbi Meir Lipschitz, Mrs. Barbara Mastic, Mrs. Calah Reisman, Mrs. Aliza Ross, Mrs. Sophia Shweky from Yeshiva at the Jersey Shore

Grade(s): 3, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Science, Tanach, Israel

Pedagogy: Constructivist

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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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Secret Seders during the Spanish Inquisition

Taking advantage of the learning about Pesach throughout the school, I invite my students to travel back in time when Jews risked their lives to fulfill the mitzvah of having a Seder (among other holidays) during the Spanish Inquisition. My Spanish classes apply relevant Spanish vocabulary and grammar that they currently learning to the mock seder scenarios I create for them in a dark, candle lit room with the windows blocked and rotating students on guard for any visitors.

By: Mrs. Susan Schwartz from Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Halacha, History, Ivrit, World Language

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, 21st Century Skills

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Project GO FORTH: Lech L’Cha: A Cross-Curricular Study of Immigration and Personal Narrative

Project GO FORTH: Lech L’Cha is a multi-faceted, interdisciplinary approach to understanding the immigrant experience in America. Project GO FORTH: Lech L’Cha integrates seventh grade Social Studies, in which students study the history of American immigration, with Language Arts, in which student examine creative writing and sensory language, with Judaic Studies, in which students specifically explore the parsha Lech L’Cha as a lens through which they can understand the spiral of Jewish History with the originating immigrant experience of Avraham.

By: Ms. Ariel Levenson, Mrs. Staci Zeif from Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Tanach

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

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Philosophical Ethics and the Meeting of Minds

We are delighted to share our entry in the Interdisciplinary Integration category: the “Philosophical Ethics” unit of our junior year Integrated American Literature, Jewish and Western Philosophy course, affectionately referred to as “Tikvah. The unit culminates with the Meeting of Minds project.

By: Rabbi Tzvi Sinensky, Dr. Eileen Watts from Kohelet Yeshiva High School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Gemara, Halacha, History, Literature, Tanach

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

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Pesach Haggada Scrapbook

Middle School learned about Pesach from a multiplicity of perspectives and incorporated their learning into a usable Haggada scrapbook.

By: Rabbi Meir Lipschitz, Rabbi Yossi Berg, Mrs. Batsheva Blum, Mr. Craig Brimmer, Ms. Laura Carroll, Mrs. Lexi DiFiglia, Mrs. Bonnie Drazen, Mrs. Gittel Goldberg, Rabbi Avi Herzog, Mrs. Naava Hess, Mr. Sean Lang, Mrs. Barbara Mastic, Mrs. Calah Reisman, Mrs. Aliza Ross, Mrs. Sophia Shweky from Yeshiva at the Jersey Shore

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

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

Pedagogy: Constructivist

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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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Megillat Esther – a Historical, Political, and Psychological View

Over the course of Megillat Esther, we learned about how psychology, history, and political theory can change how we read the story. With basic information from a political theorist, some analysis of fascist leaders, and some basic principles of psychology, we tried to understand the motivations of the characters in Megillat Esther.

By: Rabbi Dani Bauer from Kohelet Yeshiva High School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Tanach, Psychology, Political Science

Pedagogy: UBD - understanding by design, Constructivist, Constructivist, Socratic Method

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The Final Journey: How Judaism Dignifies the Passage

The Final Journey is a 10-hour curriculum that teaches high school students about Jewish death rituals. It includes videos of each of the topics presented and a 98-page Study Guide for teachers.

By: Mrs. Rochel Berman and Rabbi Jonathan Kroll from Katz Yeshiva High School of South Florida

Grade(s): 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: Halacha, History

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning

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JanTerm Integrative Research Project

The JanTerm Integrative Reseach Project is a month-long (in January) intensive project where students learn and practice research and writing skills across content areas. By reconfiguring the students' schedule, students are allowed longer blocks of time to conduct research, write a formal research paper, meet and edit with a mentor-teacher, as well as work on hands-on projects. In this time, our Judaic Studies curriculum works in tandem, guiding the students to study the same theme from a Jewish lens. The students also work on creating a final project that reflects their learning of the Jewish texts and principles related to the overall theme.

By: Mrs. Rachel Zivic, Ms. Jessica Broomfield, Mrs. Ellen Barmach, Rabbi Michah Liben from Kellman Brown Academy

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

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

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

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Israeli Art Masters

Our multi-modal arts program offers an innovative approach to Jewish arts education which includes our Israeli Art Masters Program. The goal of this program is to weave together the study of fine arts with learning about the Land and history of Israel, appreciation of the Israeli landscape, exploration of Jewish artistic inspiration, the study of Hebrew vocabulary and Positive Discipline Social Emotional Learning. Through this program students have studied various artists from Israel as well as the inspirations and techniques used in their art. In parallel the students compare the color wheel to the Positive Discipline "wheel of choice" which relates the processes of an individual's problem solving decisions to an individual artist's thoughtful artistic choices.

By: Mrs. Anat Levi from Irvine Hebrew Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Ivrit, Tanach, Jewish History

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

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Integrating Navi and Literature

The attached curriculum is part of a project in our school to integrate our Humanities and Navi curricula at the high school level. Our curriculum spans Grades 10, 11, and 12 – and focuses on different areas of integration at different grades. The attached curriculum focuses on the grade 10 portion of the project.

By: Rabbi Yaakov Jaffe, EdD from Maimonides

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Tanach

Pedagogy: UBD - understanding by design

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SOLE Student Leadership Seminar

The SOLE Student Leadership Seminar is a full-day, interactive leadership seminar for grades 9-12 which combines real world skill development learned from world experts, with the application of Jewish values in the community.

Students learn from SOLE mentors including Rabbis, Commanders in the IDF, Professors specializing in Israeli Affairs, and other thought leaders in an innovative learning environment called a Self-Organized-Learning Environment or SOLE.

After each keynote, the speakers join the students in small group discussions on how to apply what they just learned from the presentations to their clubs, committees and Israeli-themed projects.

By: Mr. Jamie Cohen from TanenbaumCHAT

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, Halacha, History, Ivrit, Literature, Music, Leadership Development

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

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Sinai Akiba Academy New Horizon Day School Exchange

Sinai Akiba Academy, a Jewish day school, partners with New Horizon School, a Muslim day school. Through art, text-study, games, and prayer, students come to see their "buddies," as individuals rather than as members from a faith group.

By: Mrs. Rebecca Berger from Sinai Akiba Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Jewish History

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

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Shinshinim Integration Program

A group of Israeli teenagers (Shinshinim) who are volunteering in Toronto for the year join my Grade 12 Israeli history course for one lesson a week. The students learn about Israel together and share and challenge each other's understandings about Israel. The Israeli teens provide first-hand experience and real-world knowledge about Israel and change the nature and dynamic of the course because of their involvement.

By: Dr. Matt Reingold from TanenbaumCHAT

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

Subject(s) of entry: History

Pedagogy: Constructivist

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Realizing Dr. King’s Dream: Facing Choices and Becoming an Upstander

This day, the first in a new school tradition, was structured as a call to action for students and families in a time when action is sorely needed. We hope to give our students the tools they need to to stand up for what is right, like our social justice heroes throughout history have done.

By: Miss Whitney Philipps from Community Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Literature, Music, Tanach, Social Justice

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry 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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Project-Based Learning at CHDS

As we continue to improve our middle school program, we recently elected to change our learning environment to include more Real-World Learning, based on projects that better motivate students and increase their engagement. This entry describes our accomplishments so far.

By: Dr. Bernard Franks from Cincinnati Hebrew Day School

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

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

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

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Everyone is a Story

Student teams research the life history of an individual outside our school community and interview him/her for both educational and personal growth.

By: Mrs. Efrat Yakobi Gafni from Heschel Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Tanach

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

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EVERlab

The 9th grade EVERlab unit focuses on the integration of the concepts, themes and structures from two different courses: Tanach I and Ancient World Civilizations. The unit begins with students brainstorming the overlapping content from eachcourse and moves through scaffolded design, collaboration, and critical thinking exercises in order for students to refine and deepen integrated topics they have chosen themselves. Students ultimately develop projects that demonstrate this integrated thinking.

By: Ms. Robin Gluck, Evan Wolkenstein from Jewish Community High School of the Bay

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

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

Pedagogy: Constructivist, 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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Curriculum Integration Initiative

In the 2015-16 academic year we rolled out an interdisciplinary project designed to inspire an integrated approach to the multiple disciplines that are part of our school's dual curriculum. Please enjoy our Keynote presentation that will walk you through the vision, implementation, and impact of our project.

By: Mrs. Amy Horowitz, Rabbi Chaim Lanner from KYHS of South FL (formerly Weinbaum)

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature, Tanach

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning

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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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Neighborhood and Community

In this unit, students explored the necessary components of a community/neighborhood, including, laws, community 'helpers,' homes, street furniture, and establishments that provide needed goods and services. Students discussed what it means to be a member of a community and what rights and responsibilities accompany that privilege. The unit included a great deal of 'first-hand' experience as students met and interviewed community members, explored a neighborhood and spoke with voters as they entered the booths in this recent election.

By: Mrs. Eva Broder from SAR Academy

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

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

Pedagogy: IBL - inquiry based learning

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And There Was Light

This is an interdisciplinary unit, teaching the history of festivals and religions involving light across many cultures. Students were exposed to the symbolism of light in literature and Torah as well as the science of light in creating day and night, seasons and electricity with the creation of lamps in the school's pottery labs. Students learned Tfillot and added the Hallel for Hanukkah the festival of light, as well as created a book demonstrating of all of their learning.

By: Mrs. Michal Almalem, Mrs. Tamar Hershkovitz, Mrs.Cindy Van Gunda, from Bornblum Jewish Community School

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

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

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

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Make for Yourself a Teacher, Find a Friend, Save the World

At Arthur I. Meyer Academy, Jocelyn Weiner used a student driven and created curricular integrative process, inspired by UbD, to create a unit to explore, research, solve, and write informational books about issues of importance in the upcoming presidential election with 18 third graders. The teacher began the unit by using Judaic and Secular text to help guide students to critically think about issues in our country and community.

By using students’ questions, wonderings, and misconceptions, the students and teacher were able to create the unit and lessons needed to solve the problem. The goal was achieved by creating individual books that provided ways to solve the issue, what Jewish text and scholars say about the problem the community was faced with, and a detailed description of the topic (according to credible, secular, age appropriate text).Jenna Sherwood, the other third grade teacher at Meyer Academy, built upon the research students did in reading in order to give a better understanding of timelines in math class

By: Ms. Jocelyn Weiner from Arthur I. Meyer Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Literature

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

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Letters of Admiration

Students reflected upon the unique traits of leaders in Tanakh and wrote letters of recognition to modern-day figures who exemplify these traits.

By: Mrs. Shira Greenspan from Ramaz Upper School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Ivrit, Literature, Tanach

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design, 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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Kindergarten Community Library Project

Using the Design Thinking Model, the Kindergarten classes redesigned and created a more efficient and organized library based on the needs of our school community. The children researched, interviewed, and engineered in order to enhance our JPDS-NC South Campus Community Library which houses picture books, non-fiction, fiction, easy readers, Hebrew, and Jewish values books in an inviting environment which is conducive to learning and reading for fun.

By: Lisa Davis, Vas Pournaras, and Xani Pollakoff from JPDS-NC

Grade(s): K, Elementary school

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Literature, Math, Science, Social/Emotional

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, Design Thinking Model

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Israeli Knesset Simulation

The Israeli Knesset Simulation is a combination of live role-playing and online virtual world interaction in which high school seniors immerse themselves in Israeli politics by becoming members of Knesset. By playing a specific character, learning the party platform, and drafting legislation through committee work, the seniors engage in Israel from the inside-out, breaking down the barriers between their education and the real world.

By: Rabbi Natan Kapustin from Abraham Joshua Heschel High School

Grade(s): 11, 12, High school

Subject(s) of entry: History, Social Studies

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

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HBHA Upper School Social Justice Project

Imagine an educational experience in which Jewish teenagers have the opportunity to take their classroom learning and direct that knowledge into a course of action that enhances their education and the Greater Kansas City community. This experiential learning is happening at Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, in the form of the Upper School Social Justice Project. I developed and implemented this project - in partnership with peers from an urban charter school, as well as local leaders - which facilitates personal growth and community activism in our students as they address issues such as health care access, voter engagement, and universal early childhood education.

By: Mr. Todd Clauer from Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: Gemara, Halacha, History, Literature, Mishnah, Tanach, Civics/Government

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

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Government Comes to Us, We Come to Government

Students served as honorary pages in the Maine Senate, lunched and engaged with our senator, and had the mayor of Portland in to class for an intimate session. This led to great desires to be involved in the political process.

By: Mrs. Kimberley Berry from Levey Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Social Studies, Judaic Values

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

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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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An Interdisciplinary Exploration of Transcendentalism

Integrated Creative Judaics (ICJ) was a new initiative for interdisciplinary education at de Toledo High School in West Hills, CA. During the 2014-2015 school year, a Media Arts 2 class was paired with a dedicated Judaic Studies class for the entire year. During the second semester, the Media Arts/Judaic Studies joint class entered into a multi-week collaboration with an Honors English 11 class to explore themes of transcendentalism through the lens of the Hebrew prophets and bring learning to life through the Media Arts.

By: Mr. Roger Blonder, Mr. Devin Villarreal, Mr. Tony Soltis from de Toledo High School

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

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

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

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All School Read

Every student in our school reads the same book, author or Jewish value-themed text. Working across grades and disciplines, students develop projects synthesizing ideas related to these texts from Art, Music, Judaic studies, Language Arts, Science and Social Studies. Most years we have found a partner school to widen our students' horizons and deepen their understanding of the theme or value being studied.

By: Mrs. Julia Weinstein, Mrs. Elaine Kaplan from Rockwern Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: Art, History, Literature, Music, Science, Judaic Studies (culture, history, values)

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design

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A Slave’s Journey: From Brick Making to Matza Baking

This curriculum uses the Exodus story as the foundation for the students to research and execute the making of bricks. The Pesach narrative is then used to expose the students to child labor throughout history. The bricks are used to build a working oven upon which the students baked matza and then taught the rest of the school the matza-making process.

By: Rabbi Andrea Gouze from Jewish Community Day School of Rhode Island

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

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

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning, UBD - understanding by design

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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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Fernald School PBL

Students in our 11th grade US History classes researched the Fernald School, a defunct school for students with
disabilities right next door to Gann! They did 2 site visits, developed strong historical questions, and did research in both primary and secondary sources to learn more. Rather than "learning" history, they "did" history, and produced an excellent website documenting their work, which will hopefully be used to lobby the city of Waltham regarding how best to use the site.

By: Ms. Lily Rabinoff-Goldman from Gann Academy

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

Subject(s) of entry: History

Pedagogy: 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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Criminal Justice: An 8th Grade Talmud Unit, Bavli Sanhedrin 6

The primary goal of this unit is for students to use the Talmud as a tool for exploring real world problems. Contrary to the expectation that Talmudic discussions of capital punishment are arcane and grim, students learn that the Talmud’s dissection of this matter can be fruitfully applied to America’s criminal justice system. Stepping far outside of the American cultural context is sometimes the best preparation for engaging with it. Using the Talmud in this way encourages students not only to become more involved American citizens, but to experience Judaism as a guiding and thought-provoking force in their citizenship.

By: Dr. Jenny Labendz from Solomon Schechter Day School of Bergen County

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

Subject(s) of entry: Gemara, History, Mishnah, Social Studies

Pedagogy:

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Civil Rights

In this unit, students were exposed to some of the major Civil Rights leaders and their impact on rights for all people. Second graders explored the history of the movement through literature, art, writing, and theatrical performance.

By: Mrs. Eva Broder from SAR Academy

Grade(s): 2, Elementary school

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

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

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From the Classroom to the Courtroom: How to Prepare and Conduct a Successful Mock Trial for Middle School Students

Middle school students get hands-on experience in criminal and civil law in our court system. The unit covers the criminal and civil law rights and procedures as found in the United States Constitution and case law. Students learn about their rights and ultimately get to see their rights in action through attending a circuit court trial in Baltimore, preparing for and participating in a mock trial in a real courtroom, and being jurors for the mock trial done by another 7th grade class.

By: Mr. John Stevens from Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School

Grade(s): 7, 8, Middle school

Subject(s) of entry: History, Government/Civics

Pedagogy: PBL - project based learning

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The World We Live In

This interdisciplinary unit explores cultures around the world. It aims to teach students that where one lives affects how they live. We use this big idea to examine Jewish traditions, food, arts, day to day life and more.

By: Miss Shira Wolch, Mrs. Jamie Saltz from Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School

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

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

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

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Oasis Israel Project

After learning about important moments in Modern Israeli history the students in our 4th and 5th grade visit a local Senior center (called Oasis) to interview them about their memories of these moments.

By: Mrs. Donna de Groot from Charlotte Jewish Day School

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

Subject(s) of entry: History, Ivrit, Literature

Pedagogy: Blended Learning, IBL - inquiry based learning

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Modern Ethical Dilemmas Through Timeless Jewish Wisdom

I created and implemented a combination Jewish Ethics/ Rabbinic Literature curriculum that addresses common modern ethical issues via authentic Jewish literary sources (primarily Talmud). Students learn the basic skills to navigate the sources (presented in their classical, albeit redacted, formats), gain the ability to explore various interpretations thereof, acquire a thorough understanding of the content, and produce high level responsa in the style of of rabbinic decisors (poskim) that address these contemporary ethical problems.

By: Rabbi Elie Ganz from Scheck Hillel Community School

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

Subject(s) of entry: Gemara, Halacha, History, Mishnah

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

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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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