8th & 9th Grade: Making Judaism Work for Me! –
We present a dual curriculum to our 8th and 9th grade students, using the URJ CHAI curriculum designed for their age group.
Topics include:
- Social Justice
- Famous Jews and Role Models
- Spirituality, Faith, Belief
- Arts, Culture and Literature
- Food, Ethics, and Health
- Launch into High School
This class will also study comparative religion using the text Apples and Oranges: Judaism and the World Religions by Rabbi David S. Lieb. Students discuss and learn about each of the world’s major religions and debate how Judaism is both similar and different from them. Comparative religion is a great way to learn about Judaism. Topics include; “what is a religion”, things to remember about Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Students will also discuss how to respond to Christian Missionaries. Jewish Text based activities that further open students’ insight into each religion and invite active discussions will complement each session.
Coming to America – using contemporary materials and specifically designed curriculum, explore the political, social, economic, and religious history of the American Jewish community during the Eastern European migration to America.
This class will also explore ethical and moral issues and learn how to apply Jewish principles and concepts to their everyday lives.
Text study, group debate and discussion make up the core of our 8th and 9th grade program.
Community time will enhance student learning and create opportunities for social interaction.
It is our hope that during this program, students will discover how our Jewish heritage can help them strengthen family relationships and fulfill their communal responsibilities.